Quality Control Section Manager

The Quality Control Section Manager is responsible for planning and executing strategies to ensure and improve the quality of products and services. Through the development of quality control systems, addressing internal and external quality issues, and managing the department, the manager contributes to enhancing the company's reliability and customer satisfaction.

Reporting to the Plant Manager, the Quality Control Manager serves as Oiles’ management representative for all third-party certifications. This role is responsible for developing and maintaining the department budget, driving continuous improvement of quality systems, and ensuring that product integrity meets or exceeds customer requirements. The position also provides support to the Plant Manager in achieving plant objectives.

Key Responsibility

l Customer Quality Management

・ Serve as the primary quality interface for OEM and Tier 1 customers.

・ Manage customer audits, PPAP, and APQP submissions with accuracy and timeliness.

・ Ensure rapid response to customer quality concerns and implement corrective actions.

l Compliance & Certification

・ Prepare manufacturing operations for all third-party certifications (e.g., ISO 9001, IATF 16949, ISO 14001).

・ Coordinate and manage internal and external audits in collaboration with the Plant Manager as Corporate Quality Assurance Representative.

・ Lead audit activities related to ISO/IATF certifications, review audit reports, and develop improvement plans.

・ Identify and arrange internal auditor training as needed.

・ Address non-conformities from audits using the management review system.

・ Ensure timely closure of Preventive and Corrective Actions.

l Data Analytics & Digitalization

・ Utilize statistical tools (SPC, Cpk, PPM) for process monitoring and improvement.

・ Apply advanced data analysis tools such as Minitab, Power BI, or equivalent for trend analysis and predictive quality insights.

・ Drive digital transformation initiatives within the quality function.

l Risk Management

・ Implement risk-based thinking in line with IATF 16949 requirements.

・ Lead FMEA development and maintain robust Control Plans to mitigate potential failures.

l Sustainability & Regulatory Compliance

・ Support compliance with emerging environmental regulations (PFAS, REACH, RoHS).

・ Collaborate on carbon-neutral and sustainability initiatives impacting quality processes.

l Supplier Quality Management (SQM)

・ Conduct supplier audits and drive continuous improvement programs.

・ Ensure supplier adherence to quality standards and corrective action plans.

l Inspection & Control

・ Product inspection, process audits, and traceability management.

・ Oversee calibration and testing processes.

・ Supervise incoming and final inspection processes.

・ Exercise authority to halt processing, delivery, or installation of nonconforming products until deficiencies are corrected.

Management Responsibilities

・ Assist the management team in developing goals, objectives, and budgets aligned with corporate strategy.

・ Create a departmental activity plan to ensure continuous improvement in quality processes.

・ Set departmental objectives for employees, conduct semiannual performance evaluations, and develop incentive programs for direct reports.

・ Demonstrate strong leadership through collaboration with cross-functional teams and strategic thinking to align quality initiatives with business objectives.

Continuous Improvement

・ Develop and implement training programs for manufacturing personnel related to quality standards and third-party certifications.

・ Promote initiatives to reduce defects, improve process capability (Cpk), and enhance customer satisfaction.

General Authority

・ Ensure the quality system is established, implemented, and maintained in accordance with international standards.

・ Report on quality system performance to executive management as a basis for improvement.

Qualifications

・ Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field.

・ Minimum 5 years of experience in automotive or manufacturing quality management.

・ Strong knowledge of IATF 16949, APQP, PPAP, and customer-specific requirements.

・ Proficiency in statistical tools and data analytics platforms (Minitab, Power BI).

・ Excellent communication and negotiation skills for customer and supplier interactions.

・ Experience in global quality operations, including international audits and cross-cultural communication, is highly preferred.

Skills and Competencies

・ Strong computer skills (Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerBI, etc.).

・ Quality control methods (QC seven tools, statistical quality control, 5 Whys analysis, etc.)

・ Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.

・ Previous experience and understanding as Management Representative for ISO/IATF standards.

・ Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills. Problem-solving skills (data analysis).

・ Internal/external auditing experience (Lead Auditor certification preferred).

・ Proven ability in employee development, coaching, and continuous improvement initiatives.

・ Bilingual skills (English and Japanese) are highly preferred.

Physical Requirements

・ Ability to perform extensive computer work.

・ Ability to handle small hand tools and fasteners.

・ Visual acuity to detect small defects in production materials.

・ Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 25 lbs as needed.

・ Occasional travel, sometimes on short notice.

・ Ability to perform hands-on quality inspections and process evaluations.

Safety and Environmental Responsibilities

・ Comply with company safety policies and procedures.

・ Adhere to ISO 14001 environmental policies and requirements.

・ Wear required PPE at all times.

・ Immediately report unsafe conditions or safety-related issues.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $75,000.00 - $85,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:

• Quality control: 4 years (Preferred)
• Automotive or manufacturing Quality Management : 5 years (Preferred)
• Data analytics: 4 years (Preferred)
• Automotive engineering: 4 years (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $75,000 - $85,000