Quality Assurance Specialist: Shaping the Future of Naval Aviation

Are you an expert in quality management looking to apply your skills in a mission-critical environment? The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) is hiring a Quality Assurance Specialist to join the Fleet Readiness Center Southwest in San Diego. This role is a unique opportunity to contribute to the safety and readiness of our naval aviation fleet.

Job Responsibilities

As a Quality Assurance Specialist, your day-to-day duties will be varied and impactful:

Strategic Planning: Developing and maintaining QA management plans for repair and manufacturing programs.
Process Improvement: Leading teams to document corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) that enhance efficiency and quality.
Audit Management: Conducting rigorous quality audits to track deficiency trends and sustain compliance.
Training & Certification: Managing personnel qualifications and delivering instructional training on quality protocols.
Deficiency Reporting: Overseeing the external product deficiency program to identify and resolve root causes.

Requirements

To be considered for this GS-11 position, applicants must meet specific professional and educational benchmarks. Your resume must clearly demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-09 level (or equivalent). This experience should showcase your ability to interpret technical standards, conduct complex analyses, and resolve production issues.

Qualifications Comparison

Feature	Requirement
Grade Level	GS-11
Clearance	Secret
Education	Ph.D. or 3 years Graduate Study (Substitutable)
Experience	1 Year Specialized GS-09 level

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive salary range of $85,307 to $110,905 per year, commensurate with experience and federal pay grade standards. In addition to salary, employees enjoy the comprehensive federal benefits package.

Benefits

Working for the federal government provides access to a top-tier benefits package, including:

Health Coverage: Flexible health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
Retirement: A robust retirement savings program including the FERS pension plan and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Leave: Significant paid time off for vacations, holidays, and illness.
Development: Access to internal training and leadership development programs.

Application Tips

Success in your application begins with a well-constructed resume. Ensure you detail your specific duties, achievements, and the technical methodologies you have utilized. Because this position involves technical assessment tools like USA Hire, be prepared to set aside time for testing after submitting your initial application. Always ensure your documents, such as SF-50s or transcripts, are attached correctly to avoid disqualification.

This is more than just a job; it is a position of high importance that directly supports the operational readiness of the U.S. Navy. If you possess the engineering mindset and the dedication to quality required for this role, we encourage you to apply and help ensure that our naval aviation assets remain the best in the world.

Why This Quality Assurance Specialist Job Matters

Elevate your career in naval aviation quality control at the Fleet Readiness Center Southwest, where your expertise ensures peak mission readiness and safety.

Quality Assurance Specialist Job Overview

The Naval Air Systems Command is seeking a detail-oriented Quality Assurance Specialist to join the Fleet Readiness Center Southwest in San Diego. In this role, you will play a critical part in maintaining the technical integrity of naval aviation assets by implementing rigorous quality assurance management plans, conducting process audits, and driving continuous improvement. You will act as a key technical authority, ensuring that all repairs and production operations adhere to the highest safety and performance standards.

Requirements for Quality Assurance Specialist

One year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-09 grade level.
Proven ability to apply quality and industrial engineering theories to complex analyses.
Experience in analyzing and resolving industrial production issues using engineering principles.
Proficiency in conducting technical quality investigations and root-cause analyses.
Ability to develop and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications for Quality Assurance Specialist

Advanced graduate education (Ph.D. or 3 years of graduate study) in a related field.
Strong technical leadership in a regulated manufacturing or repair environment.
Demonstrated experience in training personnel on quality system principles and safety protocols.
Expertise in managing personnel qualification and special process certification programs.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
✓Generous retirement plans including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Paid vacation, federal holidays, and sick leave accrual.
✓Access to extensive professional development and technical training programs.
✓Opportunities for career advancement within the Department of the Navy.
✓Competitive salary structure with potential for periodic increases.

💡 How to Apply Quality Assurance Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Quality Assurance Specialist Job

Create or update your USAJOBS profile and resume.
Review the full announcement details and prepare necessary supporting documents.
Click the Apply Online button and complete the required questionnaires.
Attach all documentation, including transcripts and SF-50s if applicable.
Submit your application package prior to the 11:59 PM ET deadline on the closing date.
Check your email for instructions regarding any required USA Hire assessments.
Complete all required assessments within the designated 48-hour window.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume to a maximum of 2 pages.
Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all required fields, such as hours per week and pay scales, are included.
Clearly highlight your experience in quality management and specific technical accomplishments.
Ensure all supporting documents (SF-50s, transcripts) are clearly labeled and readable.
Set aside at least 2 hours for the USA Hire assessment process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary mission of this role?

You will serve as a technical expert within the Quality Assurance Division to develop, implement, and maintain quality plans that ensure the compliance and reliability of naval aviation products.

Can I use education to qualify for this position?

Yes, a Ph.D. or three years of progressively higher-level graduate education in a relevant field can be substituted for the required specialized experience.

Is a security clearance required?

Yes, this position requires a Secret security clearance.

Are there opportunities for remote work?

This position is telework-eligible, but the role is based on-site at Naval Air Station San Diego.

What is the closing date for this vacancy?

Applications must be received by August 5, 2026.

How do I know if I need a Reasonable Accommodation?

Information regarding the Reasonable Accommodation process for assessments is available on the official USA Staffing support portal.

Is there potential for promotion?

Yes, the position has a full performance level of GS-11.

Job from Naval Air Systems Command

The Department of the Navy offers a unique working environment where civilian talent and military mission intersect. By joining the Fleet Readiness Center Southwest, you become part of a professional community dedicated to innovation, accountability, and the safeguarding of national security. NAVAIR provides competitive compensation, professional growth, and the chance to work on some of the most advanced technical challenges in the world.