Job Summary
The Quality Manager will lead the development and implementation of a robust Quality Management System (QMS), with a focus on achieving and maintaining ISO 9001 certification. This role will ensure product and process excellence within the plastic injection molding industry while driving continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational performance and customer satisfaction.
Supervisory Responsibilities
- Hire, train, and provide ongoing coaching and mentoring to Quality Department
- Oversees the daily workflow and schedules of the department.
- Conducts performance evaluations that are timely and constructive.
- Handles discipline and termination of employees in accordance with company policy.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Oversee, implement, and continuously improve the Quality Management System (QMS) in line with ISO 9001 and relevant industry standards. Ensure that the system is followed across all processes in the plant.
- Support the New Product Introduction (NPI) process by ensuring that quality is integrated from the early stages of process design through to full production.
- Manage and oversee the preparation and submission of PPAP (Production Part Approval Process) documentation for new products and changes to existing products. Ensure compliance with customer-specific requirements, including gathering necessary data, samples, and approval documentation to secure part approval prior to full-scale production.
- Promote a culture of accountability, quality excellence, and continuous improvement across the organization that complies with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and company policies.
- Continuously monitor production processes to identify potential quality issues and implement corrective actions. Conduct regular quality inspections and audits to assess product quality and compliance.
- Investigate and resolve quality complaints, non-conformances, and defects. Analyze quality data to identify trends, root causes, and opportunities for improvement.
- Train and develop employees in quality control procedures, techniques, and tools. Foster a culture of quality awareness and continuous improvement throughout the organization.
- Develop and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs) related to quality. Prepare and present regular quality reports to management.
- Oversee the SCAR (Supplier Corrective Action Request) process for quality issues related to supplier parts or materials. Ensure timely closure of SCARs, and communication with suppliers to verify that the root causes are addressed to prevent recurrence.
- Assist with cross-functional projects related to operation efficiency or customer satisfaction.
- Wear PPE as required.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Required Skill/Abilities
- Strong understanding of plastic injection molding processes, tooling, and materials.
- Experience with quality management systems
- Proficiency in data analysis and statistical tools.
- Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to lead and motivate a team.
- Strong leadership and change management skills, with the ability to drive cultural and operation shifts toward quality excellence.
- Ability to pass a background screen.
Education and Experience
- Bachelor's degree in engineering, quality management, or a related field with a focus on plastics or manufacturing, or relevant experience.
- Preferred certifications include Six Sigma Green or Black Belt, ASQ CQE, or ISO 9001 Auditor certification.
- Minimum of five years of experience in quality assurance.
- Experience in a manufacturing or production environment.
- Experience with quality management systems implementation.
- Proven track record of driving quality improvements and achieving results.
- Strong understanding of industry standards and regulations.
Physical Requirements
Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
Must be able to lift 25 pounds at a time.
Visual acuity to read instructions, operate machines, and inspect parts produced.
Must be able to work in a manufacturing environment, which may include exposure to noise, heat, and moving machinery.
Must be able to travel domestically and internationally.