Quality Manager – Manufacturing

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced Quality Manager to lead quality assurance and quality engineering functions within a precision manufacturing environment focused on optical coating solutions and custom-fabricated glass optical products. This role is responsible for maintaining and improving the Quality Management System (QMS), ensuring compliance with industry and regulatory standards, and driving continuous improvement initiatives across operations.

The ideal candidate brings strong leadership experience, deep knowledge of ISO 9001 systems, and hands-on expertise in manufacturing quality, supplier quality, and customer issue resolution.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Quality Assurance and Quality Engineering functions with full supervisory responsibility (hiring, training, performance management, and employee development)
• Maintain and improve the ISO 9001-based Quality Management System
• Oversee inspections, testing, audits, and compliance activities across raw materials, in-process, and finished goods
• Manage customer quality issues, complaints, and corrective actions using structured problem-solving methods (e.g., 8D)
• Conduct internal and external audits and ensure compliance with applicable standards and regulations (RoHS, REACH, ITAR, Conflict Minerals)
• Lead supplier quality management, including qualification, monitoring, and performance evaluation
• Review and approve quality documentation, including FAIRs, PPAPs, NCRs, and CAPAs
• Analyze quality data and metrics to identify trends and drive continuous improvement initiatives
• Manage RMAs and ensure accurate ERP system transactions
• Collaborate with engineering, production, and sales teams on product specifications and quality requirements
• Interface directly with customers to resolve field quality concerns

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Science, or related technical field (or equivalent experience)
• 5+ years of quality engineering experience in a manufacturing environment
• 5+ years of supervisory or management experience in quality or operations
• Strong knowledge of ISO 9001 quality systems
• Experience with ERP systems, manufacturing documentation, and quality tools
• Understanding of GD&T, statistical analysis, and manufacturing processes
• Strong communication skills in English (Spanish is a plus)

Preferred Qualifications

• Six Sigma Black Belt certification
• Experience in optics, glass manufacturing, or precision coating industries
• Strong background in supplier quality and regulatory compliance environments

Physical & Work Environment

• Manufacturing floor environment requiring PPE (safety glasses, steel-toe footwear, and additional PPE as needed)
• Ability to lift up to 20 lbs occasionally
• Frequent standing, walking, and visual inspection work requiring close attention to detail and color differentiation

This role offers the opportunity to lead quality strategy in a highly technical, precision-driven manufacturing environment with strong visibility to executive leadership.