Quality Lab Manager (Nashville)

Key Responsibilities

Laboratory Assignments

• Plan and assign lab schedule, including equipment usage, test schedules, and resource allocation; based on operations and QC needs.
• Lead a team of lab technicians by providing training, oversight, and performance feedback.
• Ensure standard operating procedures (SOPs), safety policies, and 5S/housekeeping are strictly adhered to in the lab.

Calibration & Equipment Maintenance

• Manage the calibration system for all product gauges and instruments using Gage Trak to ensure traceability and compliance with ISO/IATF requirements.
• Ensure the gauges are maintained in good condition. Coordinate any gauge repair or maintenance; maintain calibration records and documentation.
• Coordinate and execute 3rd party calibrations and gauge purchases by writing requisitions for equipment and services.
• Validate and record gauge specifications in collaboration with the process owner(s).

Dimensional Inspection & GD&T

• Plan and oversee dimensional inspection activities using CMMs/Scanners (with PC-DMIS or PolyWorks) and other measurement tools to ensure parts and gauges conform to design prints (GD&T). Support measurement needs to fulfill annual layout requirements, 8D investigations, and PPAP requirements.
• Review and interpret test/inspection data; troubleshoot measurement issues to maintain consistent, reliable results.
• Design and order or 3d print gauges as needed to support manufacturing.

Data Analysis & Reporting

• Perform and analyze Measurement System Analyses (MSA) and capability studies using Minitab and Excel.
• Prepare, distribute, and archive critical documentation (e.g., PPAPs, capability reports, special test reports) for internal stakeholders and customer submissions, through coordination with the quality engineer/manager.

Quality Systems & Audits

• Potential to serve as an internal auditor for ISO 9001 and IATF 16949; conduct internal audits to confirm compliance with quality system requirements.
• Support all system, regulatory and customer specific audits. Maintain systems to ensure no or minimal audit findings.

Continuous Improvement

• Utilize Six Sigma and Lean principles (e.g., black belt knowledge is a plus) to improve test methods, reduce variation, and optimize workflows – for homologation, calibration, and the process.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Quality, Engineering, Production) to resolve issues, recommend process improvements, and enhance overall product quality.
• Assist in process test method development and document revisions
• Collaborate with process owner(s) to develop effective procedures and documentation.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree (BS) (Physics, Engineering, Materials Science, or related technical fields preferred) and 3+yrs experience in materials analysis or metrology lab or 5+ yrs experience in materials analysis or metrology lab.

Experience & Credentials

• Metrology certification(s) such as CMM operator preferred but not required.
• At least one year of experience in a supervisory capacity.
• Proficiency in Minitab, Excel, PC-DMIS, PolyWorks, and Gage Trak
• Demonstrated ability to perform or oversee dimensional inspections and apply GD&T in an automotive or manufacturing context.
• Familiarity with PPAP documentation, capability studies, and related quality core tools (e.g., SPC, FMEA, APQP).

Soft Skills

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to manage a small team effectively and collaborate with cross-functional groups.
• Organizational, analytical, and time-management skills to handle multiple projects and deadlines.
• Proven track record in problem-solving and continuous improvement initiatives.

Preferred Qualifications

• Six Sigma Black Belt or other quality-related certification (e.g., ASQ CQE, CQM) for driving data-based improvements.
• Prior experience in Tier 1 automotive lab management or a similar quality leadership role.
• Advanced knowledge of 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks) to assist with part design evaluations and gauge design and or validation.
• Auditor Credentials for ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 (internal auditor training/certifications)