Quality Manager

Job Description

Title : Quality Manager
Location : University Park, IL
Hire Type : Direct Hire
Compensation : $110-$115k
Travel: Up to 30%

Position Summary

Our client is seeking a hands-on Quality Manager to take ownership of the quality function at its University Park facility. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys building and improving quality processes, rather than simply maintaining an established system.

This role will initially operate as a one-person quality function with no direct reports, with the potential to build a team as the operation grows. You'll lead audits, corrective actions, inspections, first articles, supplier quality, and continuous improvement while developing the quality systems needed to support both legacy and future products.

What You'll Do

• Own and continuously improve the site's Quality Management System
• Lead ISO 9001 audits and maintain audit readiness
• Develop and implement quality procedures, processes, and work instructions
• Manage the internal quality audit program
• Lead corrective actions, root cause investigations, and sustainable process improvements
• Manage nonconforming product through resolution
• Develop and improve final inspection and quality acceptance criteria
• Determine requirements for and manage First Article Inspection Requests (FAIRs)
• Evaluate supplier/vendor quality systems and drive supplier corrective actions
• Perform quality spot checks and identify manufacturing quality gaps
• Support change management and continuous improvement initiatives
• Train and coach employees on Lean, quality, and continuous improvement tools
• Partner with Manufacturing, Materials, Engineering, suppliers, and leadership
• Travel as needed for supplier visits and product support

Qualifications

• 3-5+ years of hands-on quality experience in a manufacturing environment; seasoned candidates are also encouraged to apply
• Strong experience working within an ISO 9001 environment
• Experience leading quality audits; auditor certification can be obtained if needed
• Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies
• Experience with corrective actions, root cause analysis, inspections, and quality process improvement
• Experience developing or implementing quality procedures and acceptance criteria
• Ability to interpret technical procedures, specifications, and regulations
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to independently manage the quality function and influence employees without direct authority
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related field preferred; equivalent hands-on experience considered
• AAR M-1003 experience, Six Sigma Green Belt, or ASQ certification is a plus
• Ability to travel up to 30%

Why This Role?

This isn't a maintenance-focused Quality Manager position. You'll have the opportunity to build the quality foundation, identify gaps, implement new processes, and shape how quality operates as the facility grows, with the potential to develop a quality team in the future.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Meet Your Recruiter

Naeomi Cervantes
Senior Technical Recruiter

Naeomi is a Senior Technical Recruiter at Sterling Engineering with more than two years of experience supporting candidates and clients. She focuses on Sterling's Commercial Division, recruiting for roles across plastics, machining, aerospace, and other specialized technical environments.

Naeomi enjoys recruiting because it gives her the opportunity to make a lasting, positive impact in someone's life. She is passionate about helping candidates find new opportunities that align with their skills, goals, and long-term career growth.

For Naeomi, recruiting is also about building trusted relationships and being a helpful resource beyond one placement. Whether supporting an individual candidate or someone in their network who may be looking for a new role, she takes pride in helping people move forward with confidence.

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About University Park, IL

Discover exciting job opportunities around University Park, Illinois! Located in the heart of Will County, just a short drive south of Chicago, University Park offers a blend of urban amenities and suburban charm. Known for its thriving economy, top-notch education institutions, and diverse cultural scene, this area is a hotspot for career growth and personal development. With attractions like the Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park, Governors State University Center for Performing Arts, and proximity to the Windy City's professional sports teams and world-class museums, University Park promises a vibrant lifestyle for job seekers. Explore our job listings today and embark on an enriching career journey in this dynamic region!