Sr. Specialist, Software & Firmware Quality Engineering

Ref #: 16030 

Location: Waterdown, Ontario

About the Role

Responsible to provide Software & Firmware Quality Engineering support for sustaining design/process updates as well as new product development through effective project management. Provide support to overall Operations functions by utilizing APQP tools for proactive defect prevention in addition to Root Causing tools for robust corrective actions. Candidate must possess sound knowledge of complex electronic hardware such as FPGAs as well as embedded software design and development.

Primary Responsibilities 

• Develop and maintain Systems Quality Engineering (SQE) Common Processes that are aligned with AS9100 Quality Management System, Capability Maturity Model-Integrated (CMMI), Program, and Customer Requirements.
• Follow a structured problem solving approach using 8D or Six Sigma tools and techniques
• Support level of design assurance (DAL) of complex electronic hardware and software to support a system design process within industry standards
• This role requires interfacing with Systems and Electrical Engineering development personnel, test and evaluation personnel, and project managers. The selected candidate must work well in a team environment, have excellent customer interface and presentation skills, have effective interpersonal skills and be able to work effectively.
• The SSQE responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
• Review and approve Electrical Engineering systems, such as electrical, FPGA/firmware and test equipment requirements, design and test documentation for compliance to requirements
• Identify root causes and associated corrective actions, evaluate process/product performance, and participate/interface with the engineering counterparts on program activities to assure processes and products are compliant to contractual and company requirements
• Ability to evaluate data to identify systemic issues and trends
• Participate in the software change control process boards
  

Desired Skills:

• Ability to interpret Schematic Drawings, Specifications, Contracts that will enable development and review of Systems & Software QE Processes, and related Performance Metrics
• Software or FPGA Quality or Engineering experience in Requirements Analysis, Design/Development, Product Integration and Test Good understanding of software dependencies, process flow and development methodologies
• Demonstrated ability to use causal analysis tools to analyze and resolve technical/process issues varying from basic to very complex
• Ability to interpret digital logic design and RTL code (e.g. VHDL or Verilog) to verify implementation of requirements
• Strong knowledge of Industry recognized Quality systems/models such as Capability Maturity Model Integrated (CMMI), International (ISO), and aerospace (AS),
• Test Equipment Hardware knowledge or background
• Effective Communication Skills: Written, Oral, Listening, Presentation, Technical Writing
• Proficient skill level with Microsoft Office applications: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.

Required Capabilities 

• Ability to read & write technical reports
• Ability to read and understand complex technical  requirements
• Ability to research / investigate / interview
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Possesses the diplomatic skill needed to facilitate improvements in organization-wide processes
• Good organization skills and ability to multi-task in a fast paced product-manufacturing environment
• A team player who is comfortable working with other professionals.
• Ability to work efficiently under pressure and to tight deadlines.
• Willingness to take on project ownership and accountability.
• Ability to root cause quality issues that surface in a product manufacturing operation e.g. 8D, pFMEA

Desired Education and Experiences 

• Technical degree, preferably in one of the following disciplines: Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Electrical Engineering
• Demonstrated basic understanding of audit techniques
• Effective interpersonal skills, including Teambuilding and Collaboration
• 6+ years of product development, manufacturing quality control or test experience desired
• Professional Engineering designation an asset but not a requirement.
• Six Sigma Green belt or Black Belt designation is an asset
• Quality Assurance/Auditing/Investigation experience an asset
• Knowledge of ISO 9001/AS9100 processes
• Prior experience working with military/defense programs is highly desired
• PMP certification is an asset