Production Lead (Quality)

Quality Assist – Wilmington, NC

Position Information

Position Title: Quality Assist
Department: Quality Assurance / Operations
Company: Protocase Inc.
Location: Wilmington, North Carolina
Work Arrangement: On-site
Employment Type: Full-Time
Shift: Afternoon Shift 3pm-11pm
Level: Intermediate (2–5 Years Experience)

Full Transparency: We Work a Little Differently Around Here.

This isn't just another job where you punch in and punch out. We come to work every day because we strive to earn a living in a meaningful way. Too many people exist without finding joy or purpose in their work, and we believe that's just wrong. After all, we spend at least a third of our lives working—so why not create workplaces where people want to come to work in the morning and feel good when they leave at the end of the day?

At Protocase, your ideas don't just matter—they shape our future. We thrive on collaboration and innovation, where every voice is heard, valued, and makes a real impact. Does this sound like something you'd want to be a part of and help grow?

Protocase specializes in custom sheet metal enclosures, panels, and parts for engineers and innovators worldwide, built with unmatched speed and quality. We take the impossible and make it possible for some of the brightest minds on the planet.

Learn more about us: https://workdifferently.info/

About the Role

As a Quality Assist, you'll play a critical role in protecting product quality and ensuring manufacturing standards are consistently met across the production floor. You'll lead shift-level quality execution by performing audits, containing quality issues, tracking rework, and partnering with production teams to prevent defects before they reach our customers.

This role works closely with Inbound and Outbound QC, Flow, Planning & Production (P&P), the QC Core Team, and shop floor teams to ensure quality risks are identified early, corrective actions are implemented quickly, and continuous improvement remains at the center of everything we do.

What You'll Do

• Conduct pre-shift quality huddles and participate in daily production stand-up meetings.


• Perform scheduled Quality DNA, Golden Rules, inbound, outbound, and process audits.


• Complete shop floor walkthroughs to verify compliance with quality standards.


• Respond rapidly to quality roadblocks, containing issues and preventing repeat defects.


• Track, analyze, and report internal rework while identifying recurring quality trends.


• Coordinate cross-functional communication between Quality, Flow, Planning & Production, and Operations.


• Escalate unresolved quality concerns and ensure appropriate corrective actions are assigned.


• Maintain accurate quality documentation, audit records, NCRs, and system updates.


• Support continuous improvement initiatives that reduce rework and improve customer quality.


• Prepare comprehensive shift reports and ensure effective handovers between shifts.

What You Need (Required Qualifications)

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent.

Experience

• 2+ years of experience in manufacturing quality, quality assurance, production, or industrial operations.


• Experience performing inspections, audits, or process verification.


• Experience working within cross-functional manufacturing teams.

Technical Skills

• Strong understanding of quality systems and manufacturing processes.


• Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving skills.


• Ability to identify trends and recommend corrective and preventative actions.


• Strong written and verbal communication skills.


• Comfortable using quality tracking systems and Microsoft Office applications.

Other Requirements

• Ability to work on-site in Wilmington, NC.


• Ability to spend extended periods walking and standing on the production floor.


• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs when required.


• Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.


• Authorized to work in the United States.

What Would Be Considered an Asset

• Previous experience in Quality Control, Quality Assurance, or Manufacturing Engineering.


• Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Continuous Improvement methodologies.


• Knowledge of root cause analysis and corrective/preventative action (CAPA) processes.


• Experience with NCR management and audit documentation.


• ISO 9001 or other quality management system experience.

What Success Looks Like

Within your first year, you will:

• Independently manage daily quality execution activities across your assigned shift.


• Complete scheduled audits accurately and on time while maintaining full documentation.


• Respond to quality roadblocks quickly and effectively to minimize production impact.


• Build strong working relationships with Flow, Planning & Production, Operations, and the QC Core Team.


• Help reduce internal rework through proactive quality monitoring and continuous improvement.


• Contribute to measurable improvements in production quality, audit performance, and defect prevention.

Why Us?

At Protocase, we believe in recognizing and rewarding hard work and dedication.

Our starting annual total compensation package—including base salary and performance incentives—ranges from $45,000 to $65,000 USD, depending on experience.

In addition, you can look forward to:

Training & Growth: We'll teach you the role from the ground up and provide opportunities to expand your skills and grow your career over time.

‍⚕️ Comprehensive Health Care: Medical, Dental, Life Insurance, and Group Insurance available after two months of full-time employment.

️ Vacation: Start with two weeks of paid vacation, increasing to three weeks after three years and four weeks after five years.

Community Discounts: Access exclusive deals at local businesses.

️ Wellness Support: Participate in wellness events and enjoy access to a gym membership.

Social Events: As our Wilmington branch continues to grow, enjoy team lunches, seasonal parties, and social events with your coworkers.

Wilmington Lifestyle: Embrace