LEER - Manager, Quality

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Operational Quality & Floor Support

• Lead 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 & Reporting

• Collect, 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 Discipline

• Plan, 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 Development

• Champion 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 Culture

• Train 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 & Experience

• Bachelor'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 & Attributes

• Strong 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 Requirements

• Occasional 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 Competencies

• PDCA 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.

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