Plant Quality Assurance Manager

Plant Quality Assurance Manager

Job Summary

The Manager, Plant Quality Assurance has overall responsibility to plan, coordinate, and direct all technical and administrative functions of the plant Quality Assurance Department and Quality Assurance Program. This role ensures continuous production of products consistent with established standards, either directly or through subordinates. The manager also acts as a vital member of the Plant Quality Steering Committee (QSC).

Essential Functions

• Advises the Corporate Quality Assurance Manager and Plant Manager on significant matters regarding product quality.

• Supervises all quality control and inspection functions.

• Maintains product quality records and manages the plant Corrective Action Program for both internal and vendor issues.

• Develops training and instruction programs for Quality personnel.

• Collaborates with Product Development Engineering during the design phase to establish requirements, dimensions, and tolerances.

• Works with Engineering during prototype and first sample phases to ensure conformance to specifications.

• Analyzes process capabilities and investigates root causes of customer complaints to implement preventive actions.

• Partners with Purchasing to conduct supplier quality audits and analyze supplier performance.

• Ensures timely calibration programs for all inspection equipment.

• Develops and implements procedures for all phases of the product quality program.

• Coordinates quality and inspection requirements with government and customer representatives.

• Acts as the plant representative during government, customer, or certification body audits.

• Evaluates new measuring equipment and monitors processes for opportunities to streamline operations.

• Manages the Plant ISO program and reviews documentation to ensure compliance.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Conducts performance evaluations and develops training plans to upgrade staff skill levels.

• Upholds plant regulations and administers disciplinary actions when necessary.

• Evaluates manpower requirements semi-annually.

• Recruits and interviews applicants for open positions within the department.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Education: B.S. Degree in Quality, Industrial, or Mechanical Engineering or an equivalent field.

• Experience: Minimum of 10 years in a quality system environment, including experience in quality system development.

• Supervisory: At least five years of supervisory experience.

• Technical Knowledge: Required knowledge of statistics, statistical analysis software, and general manufacturing techniques.

• Systems: Required experience with ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems.

• Certifications: ASQ Quality Management or Quality Engineer certification is considered helpful.

• Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office and ERP systems.

• Travel: Approximately 5%.

Core Competencies

• Ability to resolve quality issues using facts and data.

• Effective delegation and the ability to motivate personnel to achieve results.

• Professional communication across all levels and departments of the organization.

• Flexibility to work irregular hours or be on call as needed.