Quality Engineer I

Position Summary

Teal Drones, a wholly owned subsidiary of Red Cat Holdings, is looking to fill an immediate position as a full-time Quality Engineer. Teal is a rapidly growing technology company focused on creating world-class system solutions serving a broad range of applications forth design and development of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS drones) for use in defense, public safety, and other government security organizations

As a Quality Engineer, you will manage Quality Control processes for the hardware side.

You’ll be integrated into the full quality lifecycle – working with Supplier Quality, Incoming Inspection, and Manufacturing – through in-line controls, and end-of-line validation. The ideal candidate brings hands-on experience with sUAS platforms, a deep understanding of regulatory compliance (FAA, FCC, ITAR, AS9100), and the ability to work with cross functional teams to solve difficult problems with little guidance.

This role is critical to ensure Teal’s drones are safe, high-performing, and compliant with government and defense standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain quality management systems (QMS) in compliance with AS9100, ISO 9001, ITAR, FAA, FCC, and sUAS-specific guidelines.
• Create and update inspection plans, control plans, and process flow diagrams to ensure consistent quality output.
• Support and participate in internal and external audits, including corrective action follow-ups and system improvements.
• Partner with manufacturing and engineering teams to ensure products meet design intent, fit/form/function, and regulatory requirements.
• Lead and support MRB (Material Review Board) activities for nonconforming material disposition.
• Develop First Article Inspection (FAI) packages per AS9102 standards.
• Collaborate with Supplier Quality Engineering to address supplier performance issues, conduct supplier audits, and drive corrective actions.
• Lead root cause and corrective action (RCCA) investigations using tools such as 5-Why, Fishbone (Ishikawa), or 8D.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, or Kaizen principles to reduce defects, scrap, and rework.
• Support customer quality requirements, including responding to complaints, audits, and requests for corrective action (CARs).

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality, or a related field
• 5+ years of experience in quality engineering roles
• Hands-on experience with supplier, incoming, in-line, and end-of-line quality systems
• Background in software QA, including test planning and automation
• Strong reporting and documentation skills
• Understanding of the software and product development lifecycle
• Working knowledge of AS9100, ISO9001, ITAR, and FAA compliance
• Willingness to travel 10% to suppliers, flight test areas, or contract manufacturing sites
• Proficient working with Corrective Actions, Non-Conformances and Audit Findings within a PLM System.
• Familiar with and used various skills such as 8D, Fishbone diagram, 3X5 Whys, & DMAIC

Additional Desired Qualifications

• FAA Part 107 certification
• Experience in the drone, aerospace, or defense industries
• Certifications such as Six Sigma, CQE, or Lean Manufacturing
• Prior work with government contracts or DoD programs
• Familiarity with FAA Drone Zone, LAANC, NOTAMs, and waivers

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Must be able to walk, stand, and navigate large indoor and outdoor facilities for extended periods of time.
• Ability to lift, carry, and move materials and equipment weighing up to 25 lbs on a regular basis.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required in designated areas or when performing specific tasks, in accordance with safety protocols and company policy.
• May be required to climb ladders, stoop, kneel, or crouch during inspections, maintenance walk-throughs, or emergency response situations.
• Regular exposure to facility operations including noise, dust, temperature fluctuations, and industrial equipment.
• Occasional off-hours or weekend work required for emergency facility responses or projects as needed
• Requires frequent use of a computer and other standard office equipment for documentation, communication, and coordination tasks.

Background Check

This position will require successfully completing a post-offer background check. Qualified candidates with a criminal history will be considered and are not automatically disqualified, consistent with federal and state law.

EEO and ITAR/EAR Work Authorization Disclosure

Red Cat Holdings provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This position requires direct or indirect access to hardware, software, technology or technical data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Successful candidates for positions subject to ITAR/EAR restrictions must provide proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residence and must not require sponsorship for export-restricted work authorization.

E-Verify

The company participates E-Verify ensure eligibility for employment and compliance with Right to Work rules.

Compensation: Base pay, plus generous annual equity package and potential bonuses.