Become a Quality Assurance Specialist at the FAA
Are you looking to advance your career while contributing to the safety and efficiency of the national aerospace system? The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently accepting applications for a Quality Assurance Specialist in Olathe, Kansas. This role is central to maintaining the high standards expected of the agency's acquisition and management systems.
Job Responsibilities
As a Quality Assurance Specialist, you will serve as an advisor to management on the implementation of software and hardware QA programs. Your primary responsibilities will include:
- Policy Development: Analyzing and implementing QA regulations to ensure organizational compliance.
- Data Analysis: Compiling, tracking, and reporting quality performance data using statistical methods.
- System Oversight: Evaluating the effectiveness of inspection procedures and production activities.
- Project Leadership: Participating in project planning and managing resources to meet major milestones.
Comparison: Standard vs. Specialized QA Experience
| Feature | Standard Quality Experience | FAA Specialized Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | General manufacturing or retail | Aviation-focused/Acquisition-based |
| Compliance | Internal company audits | Federal acquisition policy and AMS |
| Documentation | Basic reporting | Formal procedural guides and risk analysis |
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: You must be a United States citizen.
- Experience: At least one year of specialized experience at the FV-G or GS-10/11 level.
- Documentation: A two-page maximum resume that clearly highlights specialized experience.
- Compliance: Ability to pass a background investigation.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $76,507 to $118,593 per year. Beyond the base pay, employees enjoy comprehensive federal benefits including, but not limited to, health insurance, retirement planning through the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), and paid federal leave.
Application Tips
- Be Specific: Quantify your achievements. If you managed a quality system, explain the size of the project and the measurable improvements observed.
- Follow Formatting Rules: The two-page resume limit is strictly enforced. Ensure your formatting is clean and professional.
- Alignment: Use the keywords found in the "Major Duties" section to align your work history with the FAA’s needs.
The role of Quality Assurance Specialist with the FAA is a high-impact position designed for detail-oriented professionals. With a focus on safety, innovation, and federal policy, this role offers a unique opportunity to build a long-term career within the Department of Transportation. If you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to submit your application before the closing date.
Why This Quality Assurance Specialist Job Matters
Join the Federal Aviation Administration in Olathe, Kansas, and play a pivotal role in ensuring the highest quality standards for our nation's aerospace systems.
Quality Assurance Specialist Job Overview
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is seeking a detail-oriented Quality Assurance Specialist to support the Office of Acquisition and Business Services. In this role, you will contribute to the oversight of agency-wide acquisition policies and ensure that both software and hardware meet rigorous performance and safety standards. This is an excellent opportunity for a professional experienced in quality systems to influence the future of aerospace innovation.
Requirements for Quality Assurance Specialist
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience equivalent to FV-G or GS-10/11 grade levels.
- Proven experience reviewing production activities and contract quality requirements.
- Ability to evaluate the effectiveness of quality inspection systems and procedures.
- Proficiency in utilizing statistical methods for data analysis and reporting.
- Resumes must be limited to exactly two pages.
Preferred Qualifications for Quality Assurance Specialist
- Strong technical background in hardware and software QA programs.
- Demonstrated ability to independently manage project milestones and resources.
- Experience developing and coordinating changes to existing quality policies and regulations.
- Excellent communication skills for cross-functional collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and locality pay
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement savings plan (TSP)
- ✓Paid time off and federal holidays
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Telework eligibility
💡 How to Apply Quality Assurance Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Quality Assurance Specialist Job
- Register for a USAJOBS account if you have not already done so.
- Review the full position requirements and ensure your resume is limited to two pages.
- Prepare your documentation, including SF-50 forms and relevant certifications.
- Apply online via the official FAA application portal by the closing date.
- Complete any required assessments as prompted during the online application process.
- Resubmit your application if you make any modifications to your profile or documents.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your specialized experience in alignment with the job announcement.
- Include specific examples of how you meet each competency rather than relying on generic narrative descriptions.
- Double-check that all start and end dates, hours worked, and job titles are clearly listed for each position.
- Monitor your status via the FAA application portal periodically after submission.
- Submit your application well before the 11:59 PM Eastern Time deadline to avoid technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, providing a flexible work environment.
What is the limitation on the resume length?
All applicants are strictly required to limit their resumes to two pages.
Do I need to include a narrative for the KSA questions?
No. The FAA has streamlined the process and does not require KSA narratives; instead, incorporate specific examples of your experience directly into your work history.
What is the work location?
This position is located in Olathe, Kansas.
Is there a probation period?
Yes, a one-year probationary period may be required for new federal hires.
Can I update my application after submission?
Yes, but you must resubmit the entire package for the changes to be considered.
Job from Federal Aviation Administration
The FAA is the premier aviation organization in the United States. With a diverse workforce of over 44,000 professionals, the FAA manages everything from air traffic control to the development of cutting-edge aerospace technology, including electric aircraft and autonomous vehicles. Joining the FAA means becoming part of a mission-critical team that ensures the skies remain the safest in the world.