LEER - Manager, Quality

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Operational Quality & Floor SupportLead daily in-process quality checks and inspections across fiberglass and aluminum operations — including mold inspection, lamination, prep, paint, final finish, assembly, and transportation.Partner with production teams to identify and resolve issues in real time using PDCA and structured problem-solving tools (5-Why, Fishbone, DMAIC, PPS).Conduct and document first-piece, in-process, and final audit inspections to verify conformance to standards and specifications.Support and verify corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) through PDCA review and follow-up audits.Maintain control plans, inspection standards, and check sheets to reinforce process consistency.Foster a culture of defect prevention, accountability, and quality ownership on the floor.Data Analysis & ReportingCollect, analyze, and interpret production and quality data (scrap, defects, rework, warranty, FPY).Track and communicate improvement progress through PDCA-based reports, trend charts, and dashboards.Present quality performance data and root cause findings to senior management.Use data to monitor the “Check” and “Act” phases of PDCA cycles and ensure sustainability of improvements.Provide visual management tools such as Pareto charts, control charts, and trend analysis to support data-driven decision-making.Quality Systems, Audits & Process DisciplinePlan, schedule, and execute internal quality audits to ensure adherence to the principles and discipline of ISO 9001 (certification not required), as well as LEER’s internal standards and customer requirements.Conduct layered process audits (LPAs), 5S audits, and workstation verifications to maintain process control and consistency.Document audit findings, coordinate corrective actions, and validate closure through PDCA-based follow-up.Maintain and improve quality procedures, inspection criteria, and work instructions to support a structured and disciplined quality system.Participate in supplier and customer reviews to communicate quality expectations and improvements.Ensure that all quality documentation supports traceability, accountability, and continuous improvement.Continuous Improvement & Process DevelopmentChampion PDCA (Plan–Do–Check–Act) as the foundation of LEER’s continuous improvement system.Lead and facilitate PDCA problem-solving projects addressing recurring defects or process gaps.Apply Lean, Six Sigma, and SPC methods to reduce variation, improve first-pass yield, and enhance process capability.Lead or support Kaizen events, process validations, and quality improvement workshops.Partner with design and manufacturing engineering on new product introductions to ensure manufacturability and quality readiness.Identify and share best practices across fiberglass and aluminum production teams.Training & Quality CultureTrain production personnel on inspection techniques, visual standards, PDCA methodology, and quality awareness.Promote operator self-inspection and ownership of quality.Conduct refresher training following audit results or process updates.Foster a culture of engagement, accountability, and continuous improvement throughout the plant.QUALIFICATIONS: Education & ExperienceBachelor’s degree in engineering, Quality, or related technical discipline required.Minimum 5 years of experience in manufacturing quality, preferably in fiberglass, composites, paint, or metal fabrication.Hands-on experience with fiberglass layup, lamination, finishing, and aluminum fabrication processes strongly preferred.Experience conducting quality checks, process audits, and PDCA-based continuous improvement projects.Familiarity with ISO 9001 principles and structure; formal certification not required.CQE (Certified Quality Engineer) or Six Sigma Green Belt certification preferred.Skills & AttributesStrong analytical, statistical, and problem-solving skills.Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities across all levels.Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word); Power BI, Minitab, or SPC software a plus.Organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities.Self-motivated and able to “figure it out” in dynamic manufacturing environments.Balances strategic process improvement with hands-on quality engagement.Other RequirementsOccasional travel (10–20%).Willingness to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings or weekends.Ability to work safely in a production environment with noise, dust, odors, and fumes.Commitment to LEER’s safety culture and principle: Never walk past an unsafe act.Key CompetenciesPDCA Discipline: Plans improvements, executes actions, checks results, and adjusts for sustained gains.Audit Excellence: Conducts thorough, consistent, and follow-up process audits.Root Cause Analysis: Identifies and eliminates sources of defects using structured tools.Communication: Clearly conveys expectations, findings, and recommendations.Collaboration: Builds partnerships across production, engineering, and management.Continuous Improvement: Leads measurable results through Lean, PDCA, and data-driven methods.Code of Ethics & Safety:All team members must uphold LEER Group’s exacting standards of ethics and safety. This includes adhering to company policies, promoting a respectful work environment, and never overlooking unsafe acts or conditions.Physical Requirements:Ability to work in an office and manufacturing environment.Occasional standing, walking, lifting (up to 50 lbs.), and travel required.