Quality Assurance Manager - Starlab

Starlab Space is a US-led joint venture and partner network that is ensuring continued human present in low-earth orbit and dedicated to providing a seamless transition of microgravity research from the International Space Station into the new commercial space station era. Our global team combines decades of flight heritage and human spaceflight experience, from habitat infrastructure and robotic arms to daily payload operations and more.

We firmly believe in space as a tool for transformation, one that can exponentially improve life on earth.

Learn more about us at https://starlab-space.com/. 

We are seeking a Quality Assurance Manager with experience managing relationships and maintaining quality standards through external suppliers. The Quality Assurance Manager at Starlab Space LLC is an integral participant in the design/development of the Starlab Commercial Space Station (CSS). This role is responsible for leading and integrating the efforts of multiple disciplines, companies and vendors to ensure all products and services meet Starlab quality standards, throughout the Starlab CSS lifecycle.

What you will do:

1. Establish and maintain a Quality Management System (QMS) aligned with ISO 9001, AS9100 and NASA-STD-8739 series standards.


2. Lead the Quality Assurance team in developing and implementing strategies and processes across the entire product lifecycle, from design to disposal, including fabrication, assembly, integration, test and on-orbit operations, with a strong emphasis on supplier quality management.


3. Develop and enforce inspection and verification protocols for flight and ground hardware, including nonconformance tracking, and resolution (corrective action and preventative actions (CAPA)).


4. Lead and develop a team of quality engineers and technicians from multiple partners and countries.


5. Analyze quality metrics and trends to identify areas for improvement.


6. Lead initiatives to enhance product quality and process efficiency using lean, Six Sigma, or other quality improvement methodologies.


7. Oversee supplier audits (internal and external) and performance assessments, and work with procurement to mitigate supply chain quality risks.


8. Support flight readiness reviews, failure reviews, and anomaly investigations, ensuring root cause analysis and corrective actions are completed.


9. Implement risk-based quality metrics and dashboards to monitor trends and drive continuous improvement.


10. Gather feedback and lessons learned to enhance the quality program continually and incorporate them into Starlab processes.

We are seeking candidates with the following profile:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher education in Engineering, Quality Management or related field from an accredited university required.


• Minimum of 10 years of quality engineering experience, with emphasis on supplier quality management


• Working with NASA or DOD space flight systems, or experience in military systems


• Implementation of a quality management system that complies with AS9100/ISO 9001 industry standards is required. Experience with acquiring AS9100/ISO 9001 certification is desired


• Auditing supplier performance


• Relevant knowledge of root cause analysis, risk management, and other quality tools and methodologies.


• Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to guide and influence teams while overseeing and supporting the development of requirements processed


• Strong oral and written communication skills for both technical and non-technical audiences


• Ability to work closely with various teams


• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to identify potential safety risks


• Proficient at navigating the complex regulatory landscape of the space industry, particularly NASA standards

Please click “Apply” to submit your application. 

Starlab does not offer sponsorship for employment. To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. 

Starlab offers a comprehensive, total compensation package, which includes competitive salary, a discretionary annual bonus plan, paid time off (PTO), a comprehensive health benefit package, retirement savings, wellness program, and various other benefits. When you join our team, you’re not just an employee; you become part of a dynamic community dedicated to innovation and excellence. 

Starlab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.  

The statements contained in this job description are intended to describe the general content and requirements for performance of this job. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties, responsibilities, and requirements. This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter the scope of work within the framework of this job description at any time without prior notice.