Quality Manager - Automotive Manufacturer | West Dudee, IL

My client, a job shop manufacturer for the automotive industry, is looking for a Quality Manager to lead the quality department. The Quality Manager will report directly to the President and will oversee and a team of 5 Quality Technicians. In this role, you will be responsible for managing the IATF 16949 and ISO 9001 QMS, managing APQP and PPAP activities, and directly communicating with customers and suppliers.

Client Details

My client is a job shop machining manufacturer for the automotive industry, specializing in making components for transmission and brake system parts, serving primarily Tier I and Tier II suppliers. Their machining capabilities include turning, milling, and grinding. They offer the best of both worlds, providing a small company feel with about 50 employees total, while having the financial backing of a larger parent organization headquartered in Europe.

Description

• Lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of the Quality Management System (QMS), ensuring alignment with IATF 16949 and ISO 9001.
• Oversee quality assurance and quality control activities across production lines, including in‑process inspections, final product audits, and incoming supplier quality checks.
• Manage root‑cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions (8D, 5-Why, Fishbone, etc.) to resolve quality issues and prevent recurrence.
• Monitor key quality metrics (PPM, scrap rate, warranty claims, audit scores) and drive initiatives to achieve continuous improvement targets.
• Lead internal audits and manage external certification and customer audits.
• Collaborate closely with engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain teams to ensure product and process conformity.
• Manage supplier quality performance, including supplier audits, APQP compliance, and PPAP submissions.
• Oversee the development, maintenance, and review of control plans, PFMEAs, work instructions, and standard operating procedures.
• Lead quality team members-technicians and inspectors - providing training, coaching, and performance management.
• Ensure compliance with automotive standards, safety regulations, and regulatory requirements for parts and processes.
• Drive problem‑solving and continuous improvement culture through Lean/Six Sigma tools and methodologies.

Profile

• Experience with ISO 9001 and IATF 16949
• APQP and PPAP experience
• Experience communicating with customers and suppliers
• Sponsorship NOT provided

Job Offer

• Base salary of $110k-$125k depending on experience
• BCBS Health insurance
• 401(k) matching
• 3-4 weeks PTO

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