Government contracts require strict quality control to ensure projects meet compliance, efficiency, and performance standards. A Quality Assurance Manager (QA Manager) plays a crucial leadership role in overseeing quality processes, managing teams, and ensuring adherence to federal regulations.

What does a Quality Assurance Manager do on Government Contracts?

A Quality Assurance Manager is responsible for developing and implementing quality assurance strategies to maintain compliance with government requirements. Their primary duties include:

Developing Quality Policies and Procedures: Establishing and maintaining quality management systems that align with government regulations.
Compliance Monitoring: Ensuring all deliverables meet federal standards such as ISO 9001, NIST, CMMI, and DoD compliance.
Team Leadership: Managing QA teams and ensuring best practices are followed.
Process Improvement: Identifying inefficiencies and implementing corrective actions to enhance performance.
Risk Assessment and Mitigation: Analyzing potential risks and ensuring proactive quality control measures.

Quality Assurance Manager Job Description

A Quality Assurance Manager on a government contract leads the quality control efforts for projects and deliverables. Their key responsibilities include:

Developing, implementing, and maintaining a comprehensive quality management system.
Leading quality assurance teams to monitor processes and ensure adherence to contractual requirements.
Conducting audits and quality reviews to identify and resolve defects or inefficiencies.
Collaborating with project managers, engineers, and stakeholders to ensure quality objectives are met.
Preparing reports and documentation on quality performance and compliance.

Job Requirements for a Quality Assurance Manager

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

Strong knowledge of quality assurance principles, methodologies, and best practices.
Experience with government compliance standards (ISO 9001, NIST, CMMI, DoD, or FAR).
Proven leadership and team management skills.
Ability to analyze data and implement process improvements.
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND AND EXPERIENCE:

Bachelor’s degree in Quality Management, Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
7-10+ years of experience in quality assurance, including management experience.
Certifications such as Certified Quality Auditor (CQA), Six Sigma, or PMP are highly preferred.

WORKSPACE/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Office environment with remote and on-site work options.
Travel may be required for audits, inspections, or compliance reviews.

What does a typical job posting look like for a Quality Assurance Manager?

Job Posting Example:
“We are seeking a Quality Assurance Manager to oversee quality assurance efforts for government contracts. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience managing quality teams, implementing quality control systems, and ensuring compliance with federal standards.”

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Develop and manage a comprehensive quality assurance strategy.
Ensure compliance with all federal and contractual quality requirements.
Lead quality teams in testing, auditing, and process improvement efforts.
Identify and resolve quality issues through corrective action plans.
Communicate quality standards and findings to stakeholders and senior leadership.

Salary Range

The salary for a Quality Assurance Manager on government contracts typically ranges from $100,000 to $140,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and contract complexity.