Quality Systems Specialist - 1694

Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world-class Defense Research and Development enterprise, with a charter to create new and emerging technology innovations in support of Commercial & Government organizations. We have expertise in RF, EMP, Pulsed Power, Acoustics and Threat Warning Systems, and we prioritize partnering with our customers to address real-world problems with cost-effective solutions… that work.

The SARA, Inc. High Power Electromagnetics Division (HPEM) is looking for a remarkably talented, motivated, and dedicated Quality Systems Specialist to support production activities and transition innovative technologies and products to the DoD, DoE, and their contractors, from our Colorado Springs, CO location. The candidate will have the opportunity to work closely with Project Managers, Manufacturing and Design Engineers, Inventory Control Specialists, Fabrication Technicians, and external vendors to ensure our quality standards are met and exceeded.

The Quality Systems Specialist will be responsible for supporting the development, implementation, and maintenance of the quality management system (QMS) across the Colorado Springs, CO location. The role will also be actively responsible for supporting quality metrics, corrective actions, audits, and supplier quality activities to ensure compliance and drive continuous improvement.

Core Responsibilities:

• Assist in reviewing proposals, contracts, and customer requirements to identify applicable quality and compliance requirements
• Support the development of program quality plans, verify implementation of required processes, and maintain supporting records
• Maintain QMS policies, procedures, and records to support compliance with ISO 9001 and customer requirements
• Coordinate and prepare annual QMS management reviews, including required inputs, records, and follow-up actions
• Support internal and external audits, program spot audits, corrective action follow-up, and management reviews
• Track corrective actions, review supporting documentation, and verify completion and effectiveness
• Maintain quality metrics, identify trends, and report recurring or systemic quality issues to management
• Assist with supplier evaluations, audits, performance reviews, and verification of quality requirement flowdowns
• Work with engineering, manufacturing, purchasing, and program management to address quality system issues and improve processes
• Perform other duties, assignments, and responsibilities as reasonably assigned by management in support of departmental, programmatic, and organizational objectives

Requirements:

• High School diploma or equivalent
• 5+ years of experience working with ISO 9001/AS9100 with at least 3 years of direct responsibility for QMS compliance activities
• Experience with eQMS software (preferably QT9)
• Experience conducting/participating in ISO 9001/AS9100 audits
• Knowledge of root cause analysis methodologies and demonstrated experience in the development and evaluation of effective preventative / corrective action plans
• Experience with 5S & Lean Manufacturing processes within a production environment
• Strong understanding of industry recognized specifications (ASTM, ASME, MIL, etc.)
• Strong proficiency using MS Office suite including Outlook, Word, Excel, and Power Point
• Strong technical writing and cross-functional communication skills
• US Citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain DoD Security clearance if applicable
• Light physical effort, involving standing, sitting and use of hands while performing duties, carrying or lifting up to 50 pounds
• Working environment is indoor, moderately loud, reasonably clean, well-lighted and well-ventilated, moderate physical hazards may exist

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Quality Management, Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, or a related technical discipline (or Associate degree with relevant technical education combined with additional quality systems experience)
• 1+ years of experience with ASME NQA-1
• Experience with Pulsed Power, Power Electronics, High Power Solid-State Switching, Applied Electromagnetics, High Voltage (1 to 100s of kilovolts)
• ASQ Certifications(s) such as Certified Quality Auditor (CQA), Certified Quality Engineer (CQE), or Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE)
• SAE (or equivalent) ISO 9001 Internal/Lead Auditor certifications
• Aerospace and/or Defense industry experience
• Experience using Deltek Costpoint

SARA offers a competitive benefits package to include:

• Medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance; and other supplemental programs
• A generous PTO program (vacation, sick, holiday)
• Tuition & certification reimbursement
• Flexible work schedules
• Discretionary Employee bonuses
• 401(k) match/profit sharing
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

Pay Range

Salary at SARA is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual’s particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $80,000 to $110,000 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of SARA’s total compensation package for employees. Positions are on-site, unless indicated otherwise.

Application Deadline: November 20, 2026

SARA is an equal employment opportunity employer.