Company: Aviation Products Systems, Inc. (APS) Location: Granite City, IL Job Type: Full-time | On-site Schedule: Monday to Friday | 1st Shift About Us Aviation Products Systems, Inc. (APS), a proud member of the Victor Sierra group, is a well-established and rapidly growing aviation company with over 20 years of experience. We specialize in the design, assembly, and manufacturing of high-quality aircraft brake discs and linings for the general aviation market. Our commitment to excellence makes us the first choice for our customers. Victor Sierra is a portfolio of innovative aviation brands providing proprietary aftermarket components and services across general and business aviation markets, serving over 45,000 customers with a product suite of 3,500+ proprietary PMA parts and 40,000+ replacement components. APS is a sister-company to McFarlane Aviation within the Victor Sierra portfolio. Learn more at www.victor-sierra.com and www.apsbrakes.com. Position Summary As Lead Quality Engineer, you'll take ownership of our FAA-regulated Quality Management System-leading inspections, driving compliance, and embedding quality into every part we produce. This is a hands-on, high-impact role where your technical expertise and leadership will directly influence product performance, operational excellence, and continuous improvement across the business. If you're ready to make a mark in a fast-paced aviation environment with room to grow, this is your opportunity. What You'll Do
- Lead and manage the quality team, championing a proactive quality mindset.
- Own the QMS and ensure compliance with FAA, customer, and internal standards.
- Translate engineering drawings and specifications into practical inspection methods.
- Manage documentation of inspection results and lead First Article Inspection (FAI) processes.
- Conduct internal audits, oversee CAPA processes, and lead root cause analyses.
- Standardize and elevate inspection techniques using calibrated tools (e.g., micrometers, CMM, pin gages, etc.).
- Partner with manufacturing, engineering, and leadership to resolve quality issues and strengthen product reliability.
- Stay ahead of evolving regulations and industry best practices.
What We Are Looking For
- Minimum 3 years of aerospace manufacturing or quality assurance experience.
- Solid understanding of FAA regulatory frameworks and QMS standards.
- Skilled in inspection methods and tools (e.g. micrometers, caliper, pin and height gages, dial calipers, etc.
- Demonstrated leadership aptitude and ability in a hands-on production environment.
- Strong blueprint reading and technical documentation skills.
- Effective communicator and problem-solver who thrives on collaboration and continuous improvement.
What We Offer
- 401(k) with company matching
- Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Career development opportunities in a growing aviation company with room to expand your impact.
Applicants must be able to commute or relocate to Granite City, IL 62040 before starting. APS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.