Senior Engineer, Supplier Quality

About Otto Aviation

OTTO is developing the world’s first fifth-generation business jet, designed for sustainability through the innovative use of advanced super-laminar aerodynamics and high-precision, net-shaped composites. Flight tests of our technology demonstrator validate a dramatic reduction in fuel burn and allow a sizeable improvement in cabin comfort. Otto Aviation is designing world-class aircraft from first principles physics and delivering ground-breaking aircraft and economic performance.

About the Role

Oto Aviation is seeking a Sr. Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) to join our Safety and Quality Assurance Office. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in developing, implementing, and executing Supplier Quality programs in support of aerospace product development and manufacturing activities. This role will write and maintain supplier-related procedures, including the Supplier Quality Manual and Quality Clauses, and will partner closely with the Supply Chain team to establish strong, collaborative relationships with our suppliers. As a growing startup, the Sr. SQE will also provide leadership and training for supplier quality engineers and will support internal quality initiatives as needed. This position offers significant opportunities for career growth both vertically and across the organization.

The Safety and Quality Assurance Office is responsible for establishing, promoting, and maintaining the highest standards of product safety, regulatory compliance, workplace health and safety, and product quality throughout the design, manufacturing, and operational lifecycle of our aircraft. Operating within a startup environment focused on innovation and growth, the our team develops and manages the Safety Management System (SMS), Quality Management System (QMS), Environmental Health and Safety programs (EHS), auditing, training, operational safety, and continuous improvement initiatives. Our mission is to build a culture of proactive risk management, operational excellence, and transparency to ensure that every product and workplace environment meets or exceeds all regulatory, safety, and customer expectations.

What You'll Do

• Lead the development, implementation, and management of the Supplier Quality Management System.
• Write and maintain all supplier quality documentation, including the Supplier Quality Manual, supplier-related quality procedures, and quality flow-down clauses for procurement activities.
• Work closely with the Supply Chain team to qualify, monitor, and develop suppliers to meet company and regulatory requirements.
• Develop and execute supplier audit and surveillance programs.
• Support supplier selection, source inspection, first article inspection (FAI), and nonconformance resolution activities.
• Train and mentor junior supplier quality engineers, helping build and mature the supplier quality function.
• Coordinate supplier corrective action requests (SCARs) and verify the effectiveness of supplier corrective actions.
• Analyze supplier performance data to identify trends and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Support internal quality system activities, such as internal audits, root cause investigations, and corrective/preventive actions.
• Participate in cross-functional initiatives and support the continuous improvement of companywide quality processes.
• Represent Supplier Quality in internal and external meetings, including supplier reviews and readiness assessments.

Who You Are

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related technical field.

Experience

• 7+ years of experience in supplier quality engineering in the aerospace or aviation industry.

Required Skills

• Strong understanding of AS9100, aerospace supplier quality requirements, and quality system development.
• Experience developing and writing supplier quality procedures, manuals, and procurement quality clauses.
• Ability to conduct supplier audits and assessments against industry standards and internal requirements.
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes, inspection techniques, and root cause/corrective action methodologies.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively across functions.
• Experience in a startup or fast-paced environment is highly desirable.
• Lead Auditor Certification (AS9100 or ISO 9001) preferred.
• Experience with PPAP, APQP, FAI, and other advanced quality planning tools.
• Hands-on experience with ERP and quality management systems.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to thrive in a dynamic, evolving environment.

Where You'll Be

Otto Aviation is currently a remote workplace culture, with plans to secure a permanent headquarters for our corporate office in the next 2-3 years.

This position is a remote job that can be worked anywhere in the United States.

Benefits

Otto Aviation provides a robust benefits package that includes competitive salaries, subsidized medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) opportunities, paid short-term disability, voluntary long term disability and additional term life, with 15 paid days off, 15 paid holidays, and paid sick leave. Depending on seniority and role, some roles qualify for potential bonuses and stock options.

Otto Aviation is an Equal Opportunity Employer 

We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in every aspect of our hiring process. All applicants will be considered for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. We believe that a diverse team brings fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and greater success. The more inclusive we are, the stronger we become. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.

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