Quality Specialist (Starship Supply Chain)

The primary responsibilities of a Quality Specialist at SpaceX, especially in the Starship Supply Chain team, include managing supplier quality activities, resolving non-conformance issues, and collaborating with various teams to improve quality management processes. You will analyze quality metrics, participate in failure investigations, and work with vendors to enhance their performance and reduce supply chain risks.

To apply for the Quality Specialist role at SpaceX, candidates should have a high school diploma or equivalent along with 2+ years of experience in engineering, supply chain, manufacturing, or quality-related fields, or a Bachelor’s degree in engineering or supply chain. Preference is given to candidates with experience in supplier quality processes, manufacturing methods, and technical requirements.

Preferred experience for the Quality Specialist position at SpaceX includes a Bachelor’s degree in engineering or supply chain, understanding AS9100 or similar quality management systems, direct experience interfacing with suppliers, and proficiency in data analytics. Familiarity with quality processes and a strong understanding of manufacturing processes will give candidates a competitive edge.

As a Quality Specialist at SpaceX, you will directly influence supplier performance by owning and addressing non-conformances, conducting audits, and working with vendors to create action plans aimed at continuous improvement. Your insights into quality metrics and supply chain risks will help in driving initiatives that support high quality standards across all supplier interactions.

The work environment for a Quality Specialist at SpaceX is collaborative and fast-paced, with an emphasis on teamwork across different functions. This role requires a hands-on approach, often requiring onsite presence with suppliers, and may involve extended hours or travel. The atmosphere encourages innovative problem-solving as the team works to ensure the highest quality standards for the components that are vital for space exploration.

When discussing your experience with quality management systems, focus on specific systems you have worked with, such as AS9100. Explain your role in maintaining these systems, carrying out audits, and how you've ensured compliance with quality standards.

In addressing non-conformances, detail a systematic approach such as identifying the root cause, implementing corrective actions, and verifying the effectiveness of these actions. Highlight any successful resolutions you’ve overseen in your past roles.

GD&T stands for Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing, a critical concept in engineering drawings that ensures parts fit and function properly. Share your experience in reading and interpreting GD&T to manage part quality effectively.

Share a specific instance when you collaborated with a supplier to improve their processes. Discuss the challenges you faced, the strategies you employed, and the outcomes—especially in terms of improved quality and reduced defects.

Discuss specific analytical tools or software you’ve employed to track quality metrics. Explain how you interpret this data and use it to inform decisions that lead to improved supplier performance.

Talk about your time management strategies, such as using prioritization grids or digital tools to sort tasks based on urgency and impact. Provide examples of how these techniques have allowed you to meet deadlines without sacrificing quality.

Detail your views on continuous improvement methodologies like Lean or Six Sigma. Share practical examples of initiatives you've led or participated in that have effectively optimized supply chain processes.

Explain your conflict resolution approach, emphasizing active listening and open communication. Use examples where you’ve successfully navigated disagreements to foster a collaborative team environment.

Choose a challenging project and discuss the complexities involved. Highlight how you mitigated risks, collaborated with team members, and ultimately achieved the project goals.

Demonstrate your passion for SpaceX's mission and values. Discuss your interest in quality management within the aerospace sector and how you believe you can contribute to SpaceX's ground-breaking work in space exploration.