Quality Engineer III at Trace3

Who is Trace3? Trace3 is a leading Transformative IT Authority, providing unique technology solutions and consulting services to our clients. Equipped with elite engineering and dynamic innovation, we empower IT executives and their organizations to achieve competitive advantage through a process of Integrate, Automate, Innovate. Our culture at Trace3 embodies the spirit of a startup with the advantage of a scalable business. Employees can grow their career and have fun while doing it! Trace3 is headquartered in Irvine, California. We employ more than 1,200 people all over the United States. Our major field office locations include Denver, Indianapolis, Grand Rapids, Lexington, Los Angeles, Louisville, Texas, San Francisco. Ready to discover the possibilities that live in technology? Come Join Us! Street-Smart - Thriving in Dynamic Times We are flexible and resilient in a fast-changing environment. We continuously innovate and drive constructive change while keeping a focus on the “big picture.” We exercise sound business judgment in making high-quality decisions in a timely and cost-effective manner. We are highly creative and can dig deep within ourselves to find positive solutions to different problems. Juice - The “Stuff” it takes to be a Needle Mover We get things done and drive results. We lead without a title, empowering others through a can-do attitude. We look forward to the goal, mentally mapping out every checkpoint on the pathway to success, and visualizing what the final destination looks and feels like. Teamwork - Humble, Hungry and Smart We are humble individuals who understand how our job impacts the company's mission. We treat others with respect, admit mistakes, give credit where it’s due and demonstrate transparency. We “bring the weather” by exhibiting positive leadership and solution-focused thinking. We hug people in their trials, struggles, and failures – not just their success. We appreciate the individuality of the people around us. JOB SUMMARY: The Quality Engineer is responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining quality assurance processes and systems to ensure products and services meet established standards of quality, reliability, and performance. This role partners cross-functionally with engineering, operations, and program teams to drive continuous improvement, reduce defects, and ensure compliance with regulatory and customer requirements. SUMMARY OF ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: • Develop, implement, and maintain quality assurance standards, procedures, and methodologies • Monitor and analyze product and process performance to identify trends, risks, and improvement opportunities • Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) • Collaborate with engineering and production teams to ensure quality is built into processes and products • Review and approve design documentation, specifications, and test plans for quality compliance • Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies • Participate in risk assessments, including FMEA (Failure Modes and Effects Analysis) • Support customer issue resolution and quality-related escalations • Configuration management and change control participation, including CCBs, baselines, deviations, and waivers • Contractual compliance monitoring, including PWS, SOW, and CDRL quality requirements • Acceptance support for government and prime deliverables • Ownership and control of quality records and objective evidence, including audit artifacts • Mission and operational impact assessment tied to quality risks • Participation in program milestone reviews such as SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, and ORR • Software and digital system quality assurance, including SDP, testing, and release readiness • Cybersecurity process compliance interface with quality activities • Authority and independence of quality, including stop work or block release authority • Predictive use of quality metrics for early risk identification • Configuration data and CUI handling compliance • Support for government data calls and on demand artifact reviews QUALIFICATIONS: • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality Assurance, Manufacturing, or related field • 3–7+ years of experience in quality engineering or related role • Strong understanding of quality management systems (QMS) and standards (ISO 9001, etc.) • Experience with root cause analysis tools (e.g., 5 Whys, Fishbone/Ishikawa) • Proficiency in data analysis and statistical methods (SPC, control charts) • Experience with audit processes and compliance requirements • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills • Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration abilities • Experience with industry-specific standards (e.g., AS9100 for aerospace, ISO 13485 for medical devices, or CMMI for IT) • Familiarity with quality tools and systems (e.g., Minitab, Jira, SAP, or similar) • Experience with supplier quality and vendor management • Knowledge of regulatory environments (FDA, DoD, etc. depending on industry) WORK ENVIRONMENT: This position is performed within a secure, classified workspace. Employees must comply with all applicable security protocols and access control procedures, including restrictions on personal electronic devices and the handling of sensitive information. Actual salary will be based on a variety of factors, including location, experience, skill set, performance, licensure and certification, and business needs. The range for this position in other geographic locations may differ. Certain positions may also be eligible for variable incentive compensation, such as bonuses or commissions, that is not included in the base salary.Estimated Pay Range$140,000—$160,000 USD The Perks • Comprehensive medical, dental and vision plans for you and your dependents • 401(k) Retirement Plan with Employer Match, 529 College Savings Plan, Health Savings Account, Life Insurance, and Long-Term Disability • Competitive Compensation • Training and development programs • Major offices stocked with snacks and beverages • Collaborative and cool culture • Work-life balance and generous paid time off Our Commitment At the core of Trace3's DNA is our people. We are a diverse group of talented individuals who understand the importance of teamwork and demonstrating leadership, character, and passion in all that we do. We’re committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and empowered to grow. We recognize that embracing diversity drives innovation, improves outcomes, fosters collaboration, boosts teammate satisfaction, and builds a more inclusive culture. As an equal opportunity employer, Trace3 bases all employment decisions based on individual qualifications, merit, and business requirements. We do not engage in discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. Any demographic information provided is strictly voluntary, kept confidential in accordance with Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) regulations, and will not be used in employment decisions, including hiring, promotions, or mentorship programs. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all. If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process or participate in an interview, please email [Upgrade to PRO to see contact]. ***To all recruitment agencies: Trace3 does not accept unsolicited agency resumes/CVs. Please do not forward resumes/CVs to our careers email addresses, Trace3 employees or any other company location. Trace3 is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes/CVs.