Quality Engineer

Description

Kela is a defense technology startup pioneering next-generation defense technology, from command & control software to complete field-deployed systems. We empower defense organizations with robust, scalable, and secure platforms that integrate diverse sensors and AI to deliver real-time battlefield intelligence. Backed by leading investors, Kela combines Israeli innovation with global mission impact.

As Kela's first Quality Engineer, you'll build the program's quality function from the ground up and own it. You'll define the quality system, embed it across the program's engineering and production, and work shoulder to shoulder with the project engineers to improve the product itself. As we move from prototype to serial production, you'll set the quality bar for our subcontractors and make sure the program grows into it.

Responsibilities

• Build the program's quality management system (QMS) toward AS9100/ISO 9001: quality plan, procedures, and working methods.
• Work with project engineers throughout development to improve product quality, reliability, and manufacturability.
• Apply MIL-STD requirements across the product lifecycle, from design through qualification and acceptance.
• Define and enforce quality gates and acceptance criteria at subcontractors.
• Author and review qualification and acceptance test procedures (QTP/ATP), inspection plans, and quality records.
• Lead first-article inspections for new assemblies, suppliers, and process changes.
• Drive the non-conformance loop: NCRs, root cause and corrective action, and verification that fixes hold.
• Establish configuration, traceability, and handling controls for safety-critical items.
• Prepare the program for and host external quality audits: customers, certification bodies, and defense authorities.
• Train the program's teams on quality practices and embed a quality culture.
• Track and analyze production yield and quality metrics, and drive improvement actions.

Requirements

• 8+ years of quality engineering experience on defense programs.
• BSc in engineering: chemical, materials, mechanical, or electrical.
• Deep working knowledge of MIL-STDs and their application to defense hardware.
• Working knowledge of AS9100/ISO 9001.
• Built or substantially shaped a QMS, not only operated one.
• Wrote and executed qualification and acceptance test procedures (QTP/ATP).
• Worked directly with design and project engineers to drive product improvements.
• Oversaw production quality at subcontractors.
• Fluent in engineering drawings, specifications, and test documentation.

Advantages

• Experience standing up the quality function in a startup or new production line.
• Supplier audit and qualification experience.
• Lead quality-engineering methods: PFMEA, SPC, MRB.
• Knowledge of acceptance sampling standards for incoming and in-process inspection.
• Ability to inspect to electronics and cable-assembly workmanship standards (IPC-A-610/620).
• Certified quality credentials (CQE or equivalent).