Sr. Quality Manager

Airsys Cooling Technologi•Greer, SC

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Quality Manager is responsible for establishing, implementing, and continuously improving a comprehensive Quality Management System (QMS) tailored to the HVAC industry. This role oversees end-to-end quality control processes from Incoming Quality Control (IQC) to In-Process Quality Control (IPQC), patrol inspection, Final Quality Control (FQC), and Outgoing Quality Control (OQC), leveraging advanced quality tools and data-driven methods to identify improvement opportunities and drive sustained performance. In addition to internal manufacturing quality leadership, the Quality Manager serves as the customer-facing quality focal point supporting after-sales quality interface, and manages/enables key laboratory testing capabilities (incoming test lab, enthalpy-difference lab, chiller witness testing) as well as support for ETL certification and ongoing compliance maintenance.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or above in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical discipline.
Minimum 5 years of progressive quality management experience in one of the following: Preferred: HVAC industry experience with strong understanding of HVAC product design, manufacturing processes, and quality control requirements. Alternative: Caterpillar / Atlas Copco / Automotive assembly or similar complex mechanical manufacturing environments.
Proven experience establishing, implementing, and maintaining QMS in manufacturing environments (e.g., ISO 9001 or IATF 16949).
Strong knowledge and hands-on application of SPC, FMEA, PPAP, APQP, 8D, root cause analysis, and CAPA.
Solid understanding of DMAIC/DMADV.
Strong capability in data collection, statistical analysis, and visualization; proficiency with tools such as Minitab and advanced Excel.
Demonstrated ability to lead and develop teams, deliver effective training, influence cross-functional stakeholders, and communicate effectively with customers on quality topics.
Familiarity with applicable USA standards/regulations for HVAC and/or complex mechanical assembly products; experience supporting third-party certifications (e.g., ETL) is a plus.

Nice To Haves

Six Sigma Black Belt certification is strongly preferred.
Six Sigma Black Belt certification or equivalent enterprise certification.
Experience in high-volume, complex mechanical product manufacturing environments.
Knowledge of Lean manufacturing and integration with quality management.
Familiarity with ERP/QMS systems (e.g., SAP).
Experience managing HVAC performance testing labs and/or customer witness tests (FAT / performance witness testing).

Responsibilities

Develop, implement, and continuously improve the company’s QMS aligned with industry best practices and regulatory/customer requirements for HVAC products.
Oversee the full quality control process, including IQC, IPQC, patrol inspection, FQC, and OQC, ensuring strict adherence to quality standards at every stage.
Apply quality tools (e.g., SPC, FMEA, PPAP, APQP, 8D) to analyze quality data, identify root causes of defects, and drive effective Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA) to prevent recurrence and improve quality performance.
Lead statistical analysis initiatives, collect and interpret quality-related data, generate quality reports/dashboards, and present insights to senior management to support decision-making.
Design and deliver training programs for quality inspectors and production teams to strengthen proficiency in quality standards, inspection techniques, and quality tool application.
Collaborate with R&D, production, procurement, sales, and after-sales/service teams to resolve quality issues, optimize product/process design, and ensure customer satisfaction. Act as the primary customer quality window for after-sales topics (complaints, field issues, returns, improvement requests); lead communication, drive 8D/CAPA closure, and provide structured updates and lessons learned.
Conduct Layered Process Audits (LPA) and QMS audits, identify gaps, and implement corrective plans to maintain system effectiveness and compliance.
Drive Six Sigma projects to reduce variation, improve product quality, and enhance operational efficiency; lead or support cross-functional improvement initiatives.
Establish and monitor key quality performance indicators (KPIs), track progress, and implement measures to meet or exceed targets (e.g., RKPY, QPM, ERI, YRR).
Stay current with industry trends, emerging quality methodologies, and regulatory changes relevant to HVAC products and/or complex mechanical assembly.
Build and manage quality-related laboratory/testing capabilities and governance, including (a) Incoming Inspection Lab - test methods, sampling plans, traceability; (b) Enthalpy-Difference Laboratory - procedures, test conditions, data integrity and repeatability; (c) Chiller Witness Testing - planning, execution control, reporting, deviation handling, and closure. Establish SOPs, equipment calibration/maintenance plans, and test data traceability to ensure reliable, auditable results.
Support/lead quality planning and cross-functional execution for ETL certification, including requirement breakdown, test readiness, documentation control, corrective actions, and change management to ensure ongoing compliance and successful audits/inspections.