Job details

Job title

QUALITY DIRECTOR - WALTON SITE (WHEELS & BRAKES DIVISION) M/F

Employment type

Permanent

Professional category

Professional, Engineer & Manager

Part time / Full time

Full-time

Job description

As a key member of the Safran Landing Systems leadership team, the Quality Director for the Walton site plays a critical role in driving product excellence, regulatory compliance, and customer satisfaction. This position leads the deployment of the Division's Quality strategy at site level while shaping a strong quality culture and supporting operational performance across the organization.

OBJECTIVES AND MISSIONS
• Represent the Wheels & Brakes Division Quality Director at the Walton site, ensuring deployment and alignment of the Quality strategy of the Division at the local level.
• Guarantee the quality and compliance of all products and services delivered from the site, with adherence to applicable customers, regulatory, and industry requirements.
• Define, together with the Division Quality Director, the site quality objectives that align with Safran's priorities; collaborate functionally with the site General Manager
• Lead the development, implementation of the site's Quality Management System; promote a robust quality culture and embed Operational Excellence.
• Act as the primary point of contact at the site for military and civil authorities as well as customers (OEMs and airlines), especially concerning certifications, approvals, and audit.
• Advocate for the voice of the customer and regulatory authorities on all quality topics within the local teams
• Ensure company compliance to all applicable customer and regulatory requirements (AS9100, EASA Part 21, FAR 145, etc...);
• Ensure site readiness for all Safran and external audits; direct audit preparation, execution, and effectiveness of resulting action plans.
• Proactively identify, evaluate, and address quality risks, ensuring timely mitigation measures and fostering a culture of anticipation and prevention.
• Manage the site Safety Management System in line with the SAFRAN LS corporate guidelines and expectations.
• Serve as a key participant in strategic planning as a member of the Safran leadership team.

But what else? (advantages, specificities, etc.)

What we offer:
• Competitive salaries
• Paid holidays
• Recognition programs
• Comprehensive benefits
• Retirement (401K) plans with employer match
• Professional development opportunities
• Tuition assistance
• Over 300 career paths across global sites

Work Culture:
At Safran, we foster a respectful and inclusive workplace where diverse perspectives are valued. We support sustainable career journeys and encourage employees to explore multiple paths for growth. Collaboration is essential to our success, and we are committed to helping every team member thrive. We engage with our communities through educational programs, outreach initiatives, and career events, inspiring future talent to join our mission.

Candidate skills & requirements

MAIN ACTIVITIES
• Manage and lead a team of approximately 25 employees, covering Production Quality, Supplier Quality, Laboratory, Quality Management System (audit, documentation, records management), and, according profile, Continuous Improvement functions.
• Develop, monitor, and analyze site quality metrics; establish robust tracking tools and ensure effective follow-up.
• Lead deployment and manage performance of quality improvement programs (One Safran, QRQC)
• Support operational teams in solving product and process quality issues, addressing customer claims, and implementing durable corrective actions.
• Support the introduction of new products into production by validating qualification dossiers (DVI/PPAP) and ensure process compliance, both internally and and at suppliers.
• Organize and manage the internal audit program (systems, processes, products, compliance), ensuring ongoing process optimization and regulatory adherence.
KNOWLEDGE
• Good understanding of the Company, its products, services, and site operations (processes, organization, competitive landscape)
• Solid knowledge of applicable regulations, such as EASA Part 21 and/or Part 145, and associated documentation requirements
• Familiarity with quality tools and methodologies (8D/9S/SPS, QRQC, Process FMEA, SPC, PPAP, etc.)
• Understanding of Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) policies and practices.
SKILLS
• Strong ability to coach and mentor teams in the application of quality tools and methods
• Advanced analytical and diagnostic skills; proven problem-solving ability
• Experience leading cross-functional teams; ability to influence, drive change, and foster collaboration
• Fluent in English
REQUIRED BEHAVIORAL DIMENSIONS
• High level of autonomy, rigor, and perseverance
• Ability to take a step back while also addressing issues in detail
• Strong communication skills when interacting with customers and regulatory representatives
• Ability to explain and persuade, build strong relationships, and confidently assert positions when necessary
Travel mission (US and Europe)

Job location

Job location

North America, United States, Kentucky, Walton

City (-ies)

WALTON

Applicant criteria

Minimum education level achieved

Master Degree

Minimum experience level required

More than 8 years

Additional Languages preferred

English (Fluent)