Associate Manager, Quality Control Lab

About Us

Founded in 2015 to develop the world’s first industrially scalable laser metal additive manufacturing solution, VulcanForms is reshaping how the world manufactures critical products. We build and operate advanced digital infrastructure that enables innovation, accelerates growth, and supports sustainability across aerospace, defense, medical, and other essential industries. Through our vertically integrated capabilities, including scalable additive manufacturing and precision machining, we deliver true end-to-end production at scale by combining cutting-edge technology with a foundation of proven industrial craftsmanship. Our team brings deep expertise in manufacturing, materials science, software, automation, and operations, united by a shared commitment to quality, curiosity, and accountability. We foster an inclusive culture where people take ownership, solve meaningful problems, and continuously learn, because we believe diverse perspectives lead to better outcomes.

Job Purpose

• As the Associate Manager, Quality Control Lab, you will be the primary architect of the inspection workflows and personnel development that ensure VulcanForms’ products meet the highest standards of excellence. You will manage the laboratory’s physical and human resources to ensure the facility is fully equipped and appropriately staffed to support 24/7 manufacturing demands. Your goal is to simplify, standardize, and scale QC operations, providing data-driven visibility into product quality and lab performance while fostering a high-performance, accountable culture.
  
  

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the daily operations of the QC Inspection team, establishing reliable schedules and resource plans to meet production demands without unplanned delays.
• Act as the primary authority for lab throughput, providing Program Managers and stakeholders with accurate turnaround times and data-driven project timelines.
• Own the development and implementation of performance metrics (KPIs) to drive measurable improvements in cycle time, results accuracy, and overall lab efficiency.
• Lead and mentor the QC Inspection team, building structured training programs to increase technical competence and foster professional growth.
• Ensure full adherence to company procedures, customer requirements, and regulatory standards (e.g., ISO, AS9100) in all inspection and lab activities.
• Partner closely with Manufacturing and Engineering teams to resolve quality deviations, support process improvements, and provide data-backed recommendations for production optimization.
• Ensure the QC laboratory is consistently equipped with the necessary hardware and calibrated instrumentation to support current and future manufacturing ramps.
  
  

Qualifications

• 5 years of experience in Quality Control, Metrology, or Inspection within a high-precision manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated experience managing or leading a team of technicians/inspectors, with a focus on coaching and talent development.
• Strong hands-on experience with advanced inspection equipment (e.g., CMM, GOM/Blue Light Scanning, NDT) and interpreting complex GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing).
• Proficiency in using data to drive decisions, including experience with ERP/MES systems and quality management software (QMS).
• Deep understanding of quality standards and regulatory compliance requirements in a manufacturing setting.
• Proven ability to translate complex quality data into clear, actionable narratives for diverse stakeholders.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience running or scaling a QC lab in a fast-paced, high-growth "startup-to-production" environment.
• Certification in Lean Six Sigma or similar methodologies with experience implementing 5S or Kaizen events in a lab setting.
• Experience with metal Additive Manufacturing (AM) inspection requirements and the unique challenges of powder-bed fusion quality control.
• Familiarity with automating inspection data workflows and integrating lab results into centralized digital threads.
  
  

VulcanForms offers a competitive salary and equity package. Actual compensation is based on factors such as the candidate's skills, qualifications, and experience. In addition, VulcanForms provides comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; generous paid time off; and a 401(k) plan with company match.

The annual base salary range for this position is $96,000 to $132,000.