Quality Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• 401(k)
• Employee discounts

Overview
ACCRETECH SBS, Inc., is a world leader in Automatic Balancing and process control solutions for grinding machines. The company designs, manufactures and markets the SBS system: a simple and reliable solution for in-process dynamic balancing of precision grinding machines.

Position Summary
We are seeking a detail-oriented, analytical, and adaptable Quality Specialist to support quality assurance activities in our manufacturing operations. Operating from our Portland headquarters, this position plays an important role in maintaining quality records, supporting our ISO 9001 Quality Management System, performing product inspections, and coordinating nonconforming material and return processes. The ideal candidate is a quick learner with strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively with colleagues across departments and international locations. Previous manufacturing or quality assurance experience is beneficial but not required; we value intellectual curiosity, initiative, sound judgment, and the ability to learn new technical concepts and systems.

Key Responsibilities

1. Quality Management System (QMS)

• Support the maintenance and continuous improvement of the company's ISO 9001 Quality Management System
• Maintain accurate quality records, procedures, and related documentation.
• Assist with internal audits, corrective actions, and follow-up activities.
• Record internally identified quality issues and improvement opportunities. 
• Help identify opportunities to improve quality processes and operational efficiency.

2. Quality Inspection and Verification

• Perform visual and dimensional inspections of parts, materials, and finished products according to established procedures.
• Verify product dimensions, specifications, and assembly completeness using technical drawings, part lists, and reference samples.
• Use precision measuring equipment, including Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM), as trained and assigned.
• Identify, document, and appropriately segregate nonconforming materials.
• Perform applicable product and functional inspections following established procedures.
• Maintain accurate inspection and testing records.
• Interpret inspection results against established specifications and acceptance criteria.

3. Nonconforming Materials and Returns Management

• Maintain accurate records of defective materials and nonconformances through the DMR process.
• Support Return Material Authorization (RMA) activities involving customers and international affiliates.
• Review return and exchange requests for completeness and request additional information when needed.
• Enter, maintain, and update DMR, RMA, and related quality information in the company's core system.
• Participate in return and exchange review meetings and document decisions and follow-up actions.

4. Quality Data and Inventory Coordination

• Maintain accurate quality-related data in the company's core system.
• Prepare and update quality assurance KPIs and supporting reports for regular management review.
• Work with Inventory, Manufacturing, and Purchasing departments to ensure accurate tracking of materials undergoing inspection or quality verification.
• Maintain the identification, status, and physical organization of materials in designated quality control areas.
• Assist in resolving discrepancies in inspection records, inventory information, and related system data.

5. Communication and Continuous Improvement

• Coordinate with colleagues across Quality, Manufacturing, Inventory, Purchasing, and Administration.
• Communicate effectively with international colleagues, including those whose first language is not English.
• Assist in investigating quality-related issues and implementing practical improvements.
• Support clear documentation and communication of process changes.
• Develop an understanding of the company's products, manufacturing processes, and quality requirements.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong analytical, critical-thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
• Demonstrated ability to learn new technical concepts, procedures, and software systems.
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with others.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, including formulas, data organization, and basic charts.
• Comfortable using business software, email, shared files, and online collaboration tools.
• Willingness to work in a manufacturing environment and learn quality inspection procedures.
• Professional, cooperative, adaptable, and service-oriented attitude.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in quality assurance, manufacturing, inspection, or related business operations.
• Familiarity with ISO 9001 or other quality management systems.
• Experience with precision measurement tools or Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM).
• Ability to read technical drawings and understand dimensional specifications.
• Intermediate or advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Japanese language proficiency, particularly for communication with Japanese-speaking colleagues.
• Associate's or bachelor's degree in a relevant field, or equivalent practical experience.

Physical Demands and Work Environment
The physical demands here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions. While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands or fingers; handle or feel objects, tools, or controls. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus. The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate. 

Note
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at-will” relationship.