Quality Manager

The Quality Manager reports to the Director of Operations. and plays a critical role in shaping the future of CITEL Surge Protection’s U.S. manufacturing and distribution in its new Hillsborough, NC location The position is responsible for overseeing all quality assurance and quality control activities to ensure products consistently meet performance, safety, and customer requirements. This role will lead the development and implementation of a comprehensive Quality Management System (QMS), lead the organization through its initial ISO 9001 registration, and maintain certification through ongoing compliance and continuous improvement efforts. The successful candidate will serve as the primary quality liaison for customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders while promoting a culture of accountability, safety, and operational excellence. This is a high‑impact opportunity to establish best‑in‑class warehouse operations for a growing technology manufacturer in the heart of RTP. Responsibilities Quality Management System & Documentation Develop, implement, and maintain a plant-wide Quality Management System from the ground up. Establish and manage a centralized documentation system that ensures work instructions, standard operating procedures, and quality manuals remain current and accessible. Implement inspection, testing, and evaluation methods for products and manufacturing processes. Review and update quality documentation to reflect process changes and continuous improvement initiatives. ISO Registration & Compliance Lead all activities required to achieve and maintain ISO 9001 certification. Develop QMS processes, procedures, and documentation that support certification requirements. Plan and conduct internal audits to verify compliance and process effectiveness. Coordinate and host external certification and surveillance audits. Quality Leadership & Continuous Improvement Establish quality KPIs and performance metrics that provide visibility into plant performance. Analyze quality data, identify trends, and drive corrective actions that improve results. Lead cross-functional teams in resolving quality issues using Root Cause Analysis and corrective action methodologies. Utilize Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement tools to improve product quality and process performance. Partner closely with production, engineering, and operations teams to improve process capability and product reliability. Coach, train, and develop Quality Technicians and other team members on quality standards and best practices. Balance strategic quality initiatives with daily operational support. Supplier & Customer Quality Management Serve as the primary point of contact for customer quality concerns and complaints. Lead investigations and corrective and preventive action (CAPA) activities to prevent recurrence. Lead internal and external audits, customer quality reviews, and supplier evaluations. Oversee incoming, in‑process, and final inspection activities. Develop effective customer complaint management processes and response systems. Manage supplier quality performance through monitoring, audits, corrective actions, and supplier development activities. Coordinate supplier audits and quality improvement initiatives to ensure raw material and component quality. Quality Equipment & Safety Promote and enforce safe work practices within laboratory and quality control environments. Ensure laboratory operations comply with company policies and applicable regulatory requirements. Ensure calibration, maintenance, and safe operation of calibration of tools, gauges, and test equipment Support new product introduction and first‑article inspections. Support safety investigations, risk assessments, and compliance audits. Maintain laboratory procedures, work instructions, and safety documentation. Verify proper handling, labeling, storage, and disposal of chemical, samples, and all materials. Conduct routine safety inspections of laboratory equipment, testing areas, and quality control workspaces. Qualifications Required 7+ years of experience in a quality management role within a manufacturing environment. Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Quality Management, Manufacturing, or a related technical discipline. Proven experience developing & implementing a Quality Management System from the ground up. Demonstrated success leading an organization through initial ISO 9001 certification and maintaining compliance. Strong knowledge of quality systems, auditing practices, corrective action processes, and statistical analysis. Experience using data-driven decision-making to solve complex quality and process issues. Excellent leadership, communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills. Preferred ASQ Certified Quality Manager (CQM) certification. Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification. Experience working in electronics, electrical products, or related manufacturing industries. Physical & Work Environment Requirements Able to lift up to 50 pounds Available to work extended hours as needed to ensure business needs are met Ability to walk/stand for extended periods and perform periodic inspections Why Join Us? Our new RTP facility represents the future of CITEL in the U.S., bringing together a growing team, high-tech manufacturing, and a collaborative, innovative culture. The Raleigh Durham area offers access to strong talent, great infrastructure, and an excellent quality of life, Competitive salary and performance bonus Health, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) with company match Paid time off and company holidays Equal Opportunity Employer CITEL considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, age, national origin, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, disability, or sexual orientation. All applicants will be considered solely on the basis of their qualifications. #J-18808-Ljbffr