Quality Manager

Overview

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Quality Manager to oversee the strategic development, implementation, and management of the Quality Management System (QMS), guaranteeing product and service quality exceeds customer expectations and complies with industry and regulatory standards. This role champions continuous improvement and ensures the integrity of all quality processes through meticulous auditing and documentation. Preferred candidates will have experience in metal coatings or a similar manufacturing environment.

The core working hours for this full-time, salaried exempt position are Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with additional hours as needed based on operational requirements. The role offers a salary ranging from $75,000 to $90,000, commensurate with experience and education.

Who We Are:

Since 1978, Bales Metal Surface Solutions has been providing high-quality polishing and plating services for the metalworking industry worldwide. We are a female family-owned company focused on helping people achieve success. Our team knows how to “Work, Win, Play, Repeat” and “Rise to the Challenge”. We accomplish this by committing to supporting our teammates so together we can be successful, which is evidence of our tenure and low turnover. For more information, please visit our website at www.balesusa.com.

Duties & Responsibilities:

- Strategically manage the Quality Management System (QMS): Define, develop, optimize and align the QMS with business goals, customer expectations, and relevant standards by defining quality requirements, establishing and revising standard operating procedures (SOPs), and authoring comprehensive quality assurance manuals. This includes owning quality documentation and leading audits to ensure compliance and effectiveness.

- Drive Continuous Improvement and Mitigate Quality Risks: Develop and qualify testing methods. Oversee the selection and validation of QC equipment. Track and analyze quality data to identify and resolve quality issues. Implement corrective and preventive actions. Has the authority to stop production if severe defects are present.

- Cultivate a High-Performance Quality Culture: Lead, mentor, and train quality personnel. Foster understanding of quality standards across the organization and within the supply chain.

- Provide Strategic Quality Oversight and Stakeholder Engagement: Serve as the primary technical liaison, communicating quality control information. Instruct external partners on quality guidelines and collaborate to resolve customer complaints.

- Manage Quality Resources and Drive Innovation: Develop and manage the quality control budget. Evaluate and recommend new quality technologies to enhance QMS efficiency. Monitor system performance to drive continuous improvement.

- Maintain professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks; and participating in professional societies.

Talents and Credentials:

- High school graduate or GED; additional education or certification in manufacturing, operations or leadership a plus.

- Manufacturing Quality Assurance Experience: 5+ years of progressive experience in Quality Assurance within a manufacturing environment. This is the core requirement, showing a candidate's understanding of real-world production processes and quality challenges.

- Quality Management System (QMS) Expertise: Proven experience in developing, implementing, maintaining, and auditing QMS systems, particularly those aligned with ISO 9001 standards or similar industry-specific standards (e.g., IATF 16949, ISO 13485) depending on the industry. Demonstrating experience in maintaining the certifications themselves is also a plus.

- Leadership and Team Management: Experience managing, training, and developing a team of quality professionals (e.g., quality engineers, inspectors, technicians). This highlights the manager's ability to lead and motivate others towards quality objectives.

- Continuous Improvement Methodologies: Strong background in applying continuous improvement methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, or similar tools, including root cause analysis (RCA) and corrective/preventive actions (CAPA).

- Audit Management: Experience coordinating and participating in internal and external audits (customer and regulatory) is critical.

- Statistical Analysis and Data Interpretation: Proficiency in using statistical process control (SPC) methods, data analysis tools, and relevant software to identify trends, analyze quality metrics, and drive evidence-based decisions, is highly desirable.

- Knowledge of and ability to use various inspection equipment (calipers, micrometers, x-ray, etc.).

- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, organizational skills and attention to detail.

- Excellent leadership and delegation skills with the ability to assign tasks and responsibilities.

- Strong time management and problem-solving skills.

- Ability to read and understand blueprints, drawings, technical publications and instructions.

- Ability to read and inspect parts or labels that include small

- Ability to analyze data and identify trends or areas of improvement.

- Strong computer skills, proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Suite; Epicor experience a plus.

- Ability to travel locally and out of state to meet with customers & suppliers, as well as attend company and industry events.

Benefits And Perks:

- Eligible from the 1st day of the month following date of hire: Medical, Dental, Vision, HSA, LIFE & AD&D, STD, LTD and EAP.

- PTO, Holiday and Birthday Pay.

- Education, Training and Tuition Reimbursement.

- Eligibility to participate in our 401(k) plan with employer match.

- Employee Recognition Programs.

- Fun events and activities.

At Bales we value people and are committed to supporting our team so together we can be successful, which is evidenced by our long tenures and low turnover. We offer a competitive salary, continuing education, and a substantial benefits package to show how much we appreciate our team.

Bales is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $75,000.00 - $90,000.00 per year

Benefits:

- 401(k)

- 401(k) matching

- Dental insurance

- Employee assistance program

- Health insurance

- Health savings account

- Life insurance

- Paid time off

- Referral program

- Tuition reimbursement

- Vision insurance

Work Location: In person