Quality Assurance Engineer

PPPL is looking for an experienced QA Engineer/Lead Auditor who will play a critical role in ensuring mission success by managing the Internal Assessment Program. This position requires a collaborative professional who can partner with diverse research, engineering, and operational teams to identify risks, drive root cause analysis, and facilitate the development and implementation of effective corrective actions.

Please note: This is NOT an IT position or a position for a Software Engineer. 

Works under the Laboratory’s QA Program to administer the Integrated Assessment Program and provide support to various projects and activities, as needed. Areas of responsibility include:

• Primary point of contact for PPPL’s Integrated Assessment Program:
  • Development and maintenance of related policies and procedures
  • Development and management of the Integrated Assessment Schedule (IAS)
  • Leading, participating in, or assigning QA Audits and Surveillances
    • Audit planning (identification of audit scope and methods)
    • Audit execution
    • Report development and issuance
    • Support of Corrective Action Plan development
    • Corrective Action monitoring and verification of closure
• Act as Lessons Learned Coordinator
  • Provide training and guidance to PPPL personnel on the PPPL Lessons Learned Program
  • Monitor U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Operating Experience (OpEx) data for relevant information to distribute internally
  • Review submittals to the PPPL Lessons Learned program for relevance, edit for optimal use, and upload into PPPL Lessons Learned Database
• Support, as needed, of other key functions of the QA Program, including:
  • Providing QA support in the procurement of items and/or services, including:
    • Evaluation and qualification of prospective suppliers
    • Identifying appropriate quality requirements for inclusion in Purchasing documents (Statement of Work (SOW), Technical Specifications, etc.)
    • Providing quality oversight and support throughout the procurement effort
    • Reviewing supplier submittals for compliance, and
    • Supporting the development of receipt inspection plans
      o Documenting and supporting the disposition of Non-Conforming Material
      o Supporting the development of Technical Procedures
      o Performing analyses of data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement
      o Participating in Root Cause Analyses
      o Other activities identified by the QA Program Manager
  • Documenting and supporting the disposition of Non-Conforming Material
  • Supporting the development of Technical Procedures
  • Performing analyses of data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement
  • Participating in Root Cause Analyses
  • Other activities identified by the QA Program Manager

A U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratory managed by Princeton University, the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is tackling the world’s toughest science and technology challenges using plasma, the fourth state of matter. With more than 70 years of history, PPPL is a leader in the science and engineering behind the development of fusion energy, a potentially limitless energy source. PPPL is also using its expertise to advance research in the areas of microelectronics, quantum sensors and devices, and sustainability sciences. Whether it be through science, engineering, technology or professional services, every team member has an opportunity to contribute to our mission and vision. Come join us!

Core Duties:

• Management of the Integrated Assessment Program (65%).
• Management of the Lessons Learned Program (15%).
• Procurement QA Support (15%).
• Other QA support / duties identified by the QA Program Manager (5%).
• Other position related duties may be assigned.

Education and Experience: 

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in Engineering or other related engineering technical field. Minimum of five+ years of professional technical or quality experience in manufacturing or research & development. In lieu of a bachelor’s degree, we will substitute 10 years of experience related to the primary responsibilities of this position. 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 

• Sound understanding of Quality Management Systems (e.g., ISO9001:2015, AS9100D).
• Experience in planning and leading audits in a highly regulated environment.
• Experience in Root Cause Analysis.
• Experience with DOE Directives (e.g., DOE Orders) or similar governance structure.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, work well with others, and lead a team to accomplish specific tasks.
• Proficiency using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) & Google Suite of Applications.
• Ability to interpret complex Engineering drawings (GD&T - ASME Y14.5) (preferred).

Certificates and Licenses: 

• ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (preferred).
• ASQ Certified Quality Auditor (preferred).
• Certified Lead Auditor, ISO9001:2015 (preferred)

Physical Requirements: 

• Ability to travel several times per year. Mostly domestic travel but may be international to oversee work at suppliers’ facilities or in the field.

Working Conditions:

• Primarily first shift office/computer work.
• Typical indoor office setting.
• This position will have a significant need to meet for collaborative conversations and discussions focused on facilitating successful corrective actions and compliance related topics.
• Up front, an on-site presence is essential to foster strong professional relationships with PPPL and Princeton University stakeholders. We’re open to flexible arrangements, allowing for occasional remote work after an on-boarding period has been met and a work cadence has been established.
• We are not supporting visa or relocation for this position.

Please note: This is NOT an IT position or a position for a Software Engineer. 

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.

If the salary range on the posted position shows an hourly rate, this is the baseline; the actual hourly rate may be higher, depending on the position and factors listed above.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.

Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from participation in certain foreign government talent recruitment programs. All PPPL employees are required to disclose any participation in a foreign government talent recruitment program and may be required to withdraw from such programs to remain employed under the DOE Contract.