Quality Assurance/ISO Manager

South Dakota Science and Technology Authority•Lead, SD

2d•$85,700 - $108,500•Onsite

About The Position

The South Dakota Science and Technology Authority (SDSTA) owns and operates the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF). The Quality Assurance/ISO Manager is a pivotal role that combines expertise in quality control and compliance with the ability to lead and guide a team. This role involves developing, implementing, and maintaining quality control and compliance measures to meet International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards and processes through an Integrated Management System (IMS), delivering high-quality services to customers, and overseeing and mentoring a team of professionals in achieving these objectives. The manager will collaborate cross-functionally, drive continuous improvement, mitigate risks, and maintain a culture of quality and compliance throughout the organization. This position will uphold the organization's commitment to delivering high-quality services while adhering to IMS. The role requires a combination of technical expertise, leadership skills, and the ability to drive quality and compliance excellence across the organization.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., Quality Management, Compliance, Engineering).
Currently or ability to receive certification as an ISO Lead Auditor.
A minimum of five (5) years of direct experience in Quality Assurance and/or Quality Control.
A minimum of two (2) years of direct experience with either an ISO 9001, 14001 or 45001.
Demonstrated experience with ISO system auditing.
Demonstrated experience of conducting Management Reviews.
Demonstrated experience in maintaining an ISO System.
In-depth knowledge of relevant industry standards and quality methodologies.
Strong leadership and team management experience.
Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional environment.
Proficient in using quality management software and tools.
Experience in use of computer-based tools such as Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, and Excel), maintenance management system development, and use of project scheduling and tracking tools is required.
Adaptability—Ability to effectively adjust to changing priorities and demands; must be able to work independently to solve problems and keep management informed of progress and status. Ability to accept criticism and to adjust plans as appropriate.
Attention to Detail—Ability to maintain constant awareness of surroundings and ensure tasks are completed carefully and accurately.
Communication—Communicates effectively and clearly with a wide range of audiences in both written and oral form.
Decision Making—Ability to assess situations, evaluate options, choose most appropriate course of action, and effectively communicate decisions to staff.
Influence—Ability to gain acceptance or support for ideas, projects, and solutions.
Initiative—Persists despite difficult conditions and makes suggestions for improvements.
Organization—Plans ahead and works in a systematic, organized way.
Problem-solving—Ability to determine the root-cause of a problem, investigate and analyze complex information and identify, prioritize, and select alternatives for a solution.
Safety—Ability to learn, understand and comply with SDSTA’s safety requirements. Willing to accept and enforce strict safety practices.
Ethical and responsible mindset.
Problem-solving orientation.
Organized and systematic approach to work.
Adaptability to changing regulations and requirements.
Team player with the ability to lead and influence others.
Strong commitment to delivering high-quality results.
Regular interaction with team members, supervisors, and other departments and collaborators.
Capacity to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
Ability to remain calm and focused in high-pressure or emergency situations.
Flexibility to adapt to changing situations and work in a fast-paced environment.
Clear and conceptual thinking ability; excellent judgment, troubleshooting, problem solving, analysis, and discretion; ability to handle work-related stress; ability to handle multiple priorities simultaneously; and ability to meet deadlines
Ability to follow safety protocols and procedures.
Sitting for extended periods of time while using a computer
Hearing, Speaking, Vision (With and without corrective lenses)
Dexterity to operate office equipment such as computers, printers, and telephones.
Perform occasional physical labor and light lifting up to 50 pounds
Occasional standing, walking, climbing up and down flights of stairs, and otherwise moving around the office to perform tasks
Ability to travel as needed.

Nice To Haves

Certifications related to quality (e.g., Six Sigma, ASQ) are a plus.
Experience working in a government-regulated environment (DOE, EPA, etc.) or construction industry, mining, excavation, environmental, safety experience a plus.

Responsibilities

Develop, implement, and maintain a robust quality control and IMS procedures and processes, and guidelines.
Conduct thorough inspections and tests to assess product or process to quality standard.
Monitor, analyze, and interpret quality performance metrics to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
Investigate and resolve quality-related nonconformances.
Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to ensure consistent adherence to organization quality standards and compliance standards requirements.
Stay updated on evolving, compliance standards and best practices.
Develop, implement, and maintain compliance programs, policies, and procedures, keeping the team informed and aligned.
Lead compliance assessments and audits, as required.
Collaborate with regulatory agencies and support the team in ensuring compliance.
Oversee the maintenance of accurate and up-to-date controlled documentation related to quality and compliance standards.
Review and approve comprehensive reports on quality and compliance for management review.
Ensure that nonconformances, corrective actions, and continuous improvement measure are well-documented and executed.
Submit quality reports to proper authorities as required.
Develop and deliver training programs to educate employees on quality and compliance standards.
Foster a culture of quality awareness and compliance consciousness across the organization.
Provide guidance to teams on proper procedures and practices to maintain quality and compliance.
Lead strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing quality and compliance processes across the organization.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify root causes of quality issues and drive effective corrective and continuous improvement actions.
Analyze data trends to identify opportunities for process optimization and improved efficiency.
Identify potential risks and opportunities to quality and compliance standards and develop strategies to mitigate or implement them.
Participate in risk assessment activities and contribute to risk and opportunity management plans.
Lead a team of quality control and compliance professionals, providing guidance, mentorship, and coaching.
Set clear performance expectations and objectives for team members and provide regular feedback.
Foster a collaborative and empowering work environment that encourages innovation and growth.
Delegate responsibilities effectively and ensure efficient workflow within the team.
Conduct performance evaluations, identify training needs, and facilitate professional development opportunities.
Maintains consistent and reliable attendance.
Performs other job-related duties as assigned.