Director of Quality

About the role

Allen Control Systems (ACS) is a cutting-edge defense startup, founded by two ex-Navy electrical engineers with a proven track record in robotics and software. We are developing a small, autonomous gun turret that employs advanced computer vision and control systems to precisely target and neutralize small drones and loitering munitions. Our innovative approach requires overcoming significant technical challenges, making this an exciting and dynamic environment for experienced engineers.

We're looking for a Director of Quality to build our quality function from the ground up — including our path toward ISO 9001 — and lead it for the long haul. This role sets the multi-year quality strategy while staying grounded in what's really happening on the floor, in the supply base, and with customers. Our core philosophy is quality at the source: quality can't be inspected in after the fact, it has to be built right the first time.

Responsibilities

• Own the long-range quality strategy, translating business goals into a multi-year plan for systems, staffing, and capability.
• Architect our Quality Management System — including our path toward ISO 9001 — from the ground up, building processes that are clear and simple, not just audit-ready.
• Set and report quality KPIs (defect rates, first-pass yield, complaints, supplier performance); a data point is noise, a trend is a signal.
• Get out onto the floor, into supplier facilities, and in front of customers regularly — not just working from what's reported up the chain.
• Personally lead or coach RCCA using practical, lightweight tools (5 Whys, direct observation) instead of heavy formal methodologies when they aren't warranted.
• Build a close partnership with Supply Chain and supplier quality engineers, treating supplier quality as a shared mission.
• Partner especially closely with Engineering and Manufacturing — closing the loop between field/production issues and design decisions, and keeping quality and throughput goals aligned.
• Manage, mentor, and develop the quality team with a bias toward action and practical problem-solving.

Requirements

• 8+ years in quality leadership, ideally in manufacturing, hardware, or defense/aerospace.
• Experience building or scaling a QMS; ISO 9001 experience strongly preferred.
• A track record of practical, tool-light RCCA (5 Whys, direct observation) over heavyweight, paperwork-driven processes.
• Experience partnering closely with Supply Chain and supplier quality engineers.
• Comfort operating at both strategic altitude and on the floor — this is a hands-on role, not a desk job.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to influence engineering, manufacturing, and executive leadership alike.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• ACS Equity Package
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off