Lead Quality Assurance Specialist: Advancing Defense Acquisition in Saint Louis
Are you a detail-oriented professional looking to make a tangible impact on national security? The Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) is currently seeking a Lead Quality Assurance Specialist to oversee critical quality processes in Saint Louis, Missouri. This role is essential for ensuring the equipment and services provided to our military are of the highest standard.
Job Responsibilities
As a Lead Quality Assurance Specialist, you will wear many hats. Your core duties include:
- Team Leadership: Mentoring and guiding team members, assigning tasks, and facilitating training.
- Contract Review: Analyzing complex technical data packages to identify specific specification requirements.
- Risk Management: Developing and implementing surveillance plans to identify and mitigate risks to the government.
- Supplier Evaluation: Conducting audits of supplier quality systems and providing recommendations to contracting officers.
- Issue Resolution: Evaluating quality reports and supplier corrective actions to ensure total compliance.
Requirements
To succeed in this role, candidates must meet rigorous federal standards:
- Specialized Experience: A minimum of one year at the GS-11 level or equivalent.
- Education: Substitution of education is not permitted in lieu of required specialized experience.
- Assessment: Completion of the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments is mandatory.
- Security: Ability to hold a Secret-level security clearance.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $91,779 - $119,315 |
| Schedule | Full-time, Permanent |
| Security Clearance | Secret |
| Location | Saint Louis, Missouri |
DCMA employees enjoy a comprehensive federal benefits package, including health insurance, retirement planning (TSP), and generous leave policies.
Application Tips
- Respect the Resume Limit: We strictly enforce a two-page limit. Exceeding this will result in immediate disqualification.
- Include Hours Worked: Federal recruiters need to see "hours worked per week" for each job entry to verify your experience level.
- Use PDF Format: Uploading as a PDF ensures your formatting remains intact during the HR review process.
- Check Your Email: The USA Hire assessment link is sent via email; don't miss your 48-hour deadline.
Serving as a Lead Quality Assurance Specialist at DCMA is more than just a job; it is a vital contribution to our nation's defense. If you are ready to lead with integrity and technical expertise, we encourage you to apply.
Why This Lead Quality Assurance Specialist Job Matters
Elevate your career as a Lead Quality Assurance Specialist at the Defense Contract Management Agency—the frontline of defense acquisition excellence.
Lead Quality Assurance Specialist Job Overview
The Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) is seeking a dedicated Lead Quality Assurance Specialist to join our Saint Louis team. In this pivotal role, you will serve as the eyes and ears of the Department of Defense, ensuring that the high-quality products our warfighters rely on are delivered on time and within specifications. You will lead teams, analyze complex contractor processes, and implement robust risk management programs to support national defense readiness.
Requirements for Lead Quality Assurance Specialist
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 grade level (or equivalent) in federal, military, or private sectors.
- Proven ability to review complex contracts and technical data packages to identify specific contractor requirements.
- Experience designing, planning, and implementing risk management programs to mitigate delivery threats.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Submission of a maximum two-page resume highlighting relevant work schedules, hours per week, and specific dates of employment.
- Completion of required USA Hire Assessments within 48 hours of application submission.
Preferred Qualifications for Lead Quality Assurance Specialist
- Demonstrated leadership capabilities in guiding quality assurance teams.
- Experience in evaluating supplier quality systems, including data validation and first-article testing.
- Strong interpersonal skills for effective communication with contractors and internal stakeholders.
- Ability to manage stress in a fast-paced, high-stakes defense acquisition environment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Robust retirement plans including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
- ✓Flexible work arrangements, including telework eligibility.
💡 How to Apply Lead Quality Assurance Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Lead Quality Assurance Specialist Job
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, detailing your work history, hours worked, and specific dates.
- Log in to your USAJOBS account to start the online application process.
- Complete the required online questionnaire provided in the vacancy announcement.
- Submit all necessary supporting documents, such as SF-50s for federal employees or DD214s for veterans.
- Monitor your email for the USA Hire Assessment link and complete it within 48 hours.
- Track your application status via your USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Stick strictly to the two-page limit for your resume; exceeding it will disqualify your application immediately.
- Be precise with your work history; always include hours worked per week and exact employment dates.
- Ensure your resume is uploaded as a PDF to preserve formatting and pagination.
- Set aside at least three hours of uninterrupted time to complete the USA Hire Assessments.
- Double-check that all required supporting documents (SF-50, etc.) are attached before clicking submit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the page limit for the resume?
The resume must not exceed two pages. Resumes exceeding this limit will be removed from consideration.
Do I need to complete the USA Hire Assessment immediately?
You must complete it within 48 hours of submitting your application. Failure to do so will result in an incomplete application.
Is telework available for this position?
Yes, this position is telework eligible, depending on agency requirements and specific job duties.
Job from Defense Contract Management Agency
The Defense Contract Management Agency acts as the independent eyes and ears of the Department of Defense. By monitoring contractor performance and ensuring quality throughout the acquisition lifecycle, DCMA personnel play a direct role in enhancing warfighter lethality and operational readiness. Joining our team means committing to integrity, excellence, and the timely delivery of vital products.