Quality Auditor Manager

Description

JOB DESCRIPTION

Quality Auditor

POSITION SUMMARY: 

The Quality Auditor Manager in the automotive safety industry is responsible for leading and overseeing internal and external quality audit programs to ensure compliance with safety regulations, customer expectations, and industry standards. This leadership role involves managing a team of quality auditors, coordinating supplier and process audits, verifying compliance of automotive safety components (e.g., airbags, seat belts, crash sensors), and driving continuous improvement across operations.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: 

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Quality, or related field.
• Minimum five years of progressive experience in quality auditing or management within an automotive or manufacturing environment.
• Proven leadership skills in managing audit teams or quality systems.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Proficient in the use of standard measuring tools and statistical techniques.
• Preferred: Lead Auditor Certifications in IATF 16949 and/or VDA 6.3.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

• Up to 75% of travel is required, including both domestic and international locations.
• Travel may be frequent and extended based on business needs.
• A valid passport and ability to obtain necessary travel visas are required. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Audit Oversight: Lead and coordinate all internal and external audits, including supplier audits. Ensure audits are planned, executed, and reported in line with ISO 9001, ISO 14001, IATF 16949, and AIAG requirements.
• Team Leadership: Supervise, train, and mentor quality auditors. Ensure proper execution of responsibilities and continuous development of auditing competencies.
• Compliance Management: Oversee verification of compliance with automotive safety regulations (FMVSS, DOT, USCAR, AKLV, ATF, etc.).
• Corrective Actions: Ensure effective root cause analysis and implementation of corrective/preventive actions using tools such as 8D, 5 Why, and CAPA. Validate effectiveness of resolutions.
• Process Improvement: Identify systemic issues and lead initiatives for continuous improvement in quality systems and operational processes.
• Documentation & SOPs: Maintain quality documentation and ensure audit reports, CAPAs, and SOPs are updated and compliant.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Serve as a liaison between quality, production, engineering, and suppliers to promote a quality-first culture and support business objectives.

KEY SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

Technical Proficiency

• Ability to interpret GD&T and engineering drawings.
• In-depth understanding of AIAG Core Tools: APQP, PPAP, SPC, MSA, PFMEA, Control Plans.
• Familiarity with AIAG Special Process Assessments: Welding, Heat Treatment, Coatings, etc.
• Knowledge of ISO 19011 auditing guidelines.

Leadership & Communication

• Demonstrated experience managing people and processes in a quality or auditing function.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective leadership and collaboration.
• Ability to present audit findings, metrics, and improvement plans to executive leadership.

Systems & Tools

• Experience with QMS databases and compliance tracking systems.
• Proficiency in use of testing and measurement tools related to safety-critical component verification.
• Familiarity with ISO, AIAG, and regulatory documents and systems.

WORK ENVIRONMENT / CONDITIONS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Work will take place in a combination office/shop environment. Employees may be required to work weekends, holidays, and be on-call on occasion. While performing the duties of this job, employees may be exposed to mechanical or chemical processes requiring the use of personnel protective equipment.  

These are considered essential duties and are illustrative of those job tasks, which are fundamental. Employees may be required to perform additional related duties as may be assigned by management. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Requirements

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: 

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Quality, or related field.

Minimum five years of progressive experience in quality auditing or management within an automotive or manufacturing environment.

Proven leadership skills in managing audit teams or quality systems.

Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.

Proficient in the use of standard measuring tools and statistical techniques.

Preferred: Lead Auditor Certifications in IATF 16949 and/or VDA 6.3.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

Up to 75% of travel is required, including both domestic and international locations.

Travel may be frequent and extended based on business needs.

A valid passport and ability to obtain necessary travel visas are required.