Quality Specialist

Direct Relief•Goleta, CA

5d•$70,000 - $78,000

About The Position

Direct Relief is a medical aid nonprofit, active in all 50 states and more than 80 countries, with a mission to improve the health and lives of people affected by poverty or emergencies – without regard to politics, religion, or ability to pay. Since its founding in 1948 by refugees of WWII, Direct Relief has grown to become one of the country's most effective humanitarian assistance organizations. Its work earns broad recognition from independent charity rating agencies, including a 100% fundraising efficiency rating from Forbes, a top ranking by Charity Navigator, and a spot in Fast Company’s list of “the world’s most innovative nonprofits.” Direct Relief’s impact throughout the world is the result of its dedicated and compassionate people, each of whom plays a critical role in advancing the organization's mission. The Quality Specialist supports the execution and continuous improvement of the organization's Quality Management System (QMS). This position is responsible for facilitating quality processes including training administration, discrepancy investigations, document control workflows, and quality metrics reporting. The Quality Specialist works cross-functionally to ensure quality requirements are effectively implemented, employees are properly trained on applicable procedures, and quality systems remain compliant, efficient, and user-friendly.

Requirements

Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Visio, SharePoint, Power Automate, and other business productivity tools.
Experience with electronic Quality Management Systems (MasterControl preferred)
Experience creating, administering, or facilitating employee training programs
General knowledge of quality systems, ERP systems (SAP preferred), computer-based management systems, ISO standards, and application of FDA regulations for applicable products preferred.
Strong data analysis, data management, and quantitative skills.
Knowledge of Lean and Six Sigma principles and experience using those tools in improvement activities preferred.
Strong written communication skills, including technical writing and procedure development.
Collaborative and customer-service-oriented work style.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Detail-oriented with strong follow-through and accountability.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
Commitment to professionalism, integrity, and continuous improvement.
Patient and supportive when guiding users through processes, systems, and training requirements.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in Quality Assurance, Quality Systems, Compliance, Training, or a related field.
Experience working within a Quality Management System, including document control, discrepancy investigations, and training management.
Knowledge of and experience with Supply Chain Management, Warehousing, Distribution, and Logistics in an FDA-regulated industry required with a sound understanding of Good Distribution Practices is preferred.
Understanding of Good Documentation Practices (GDP) and quality system requirements in a regulated environment.
Experience coordinating training programs, maintaining training records, and supporting compliance training activities is preferred.
Must have US work authorization to be considered for role. Sponsorship not available.

Nice To Haves

MasterControl preferred
SAP preferred
Knowledge of Lean and Six Sigma principles and experience using those tools in improvement activities preferred.
Sound understanding of Good Distribution Practices is preferred.
Experience coordinating training programs, maintaining training records, and supporting compliance training activities is preferred.

Responsibilities

Support the day-to-day administration and maintenance of the Quality Management System (QMS), ensuring records, workflows, and documentation remain current and compliant.
Assist with implementation, testing, validation, and continuous improvement of automated workflows and system enhancements in the electronic Quality Management System, MasterControl.
Provide user support and troubleshooting for QMS processes and workflows, helping employees understand quality requirements and system functionality.
Generate, maintain, and analyze quality metrics and dashboards to support management reviews and continuous improvement efforts.
Collaborate with staff to investigate discrepancies, document findings, perform root cause analysis, and facilitate timely resolution of quality issues.
Assist with the identification, implementation, and verification of corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs) to address root causes and prevent recurrence.
Support employee onboarding by facilitating quality systems training and ensuring new personnel complete required training assignments.
Coordinate and facilitate employee training activities within the QMS, including assigning training, monitoring completion status, maintaining training records, and supporting training compliance requirements.
Monitor training effectiveness through completion tracking, reporting, user feedback, and periodic review of training requirements.
Assist process owners in developing, revising, and maintaining quality-related procedures, work instructions, forms, training materials, and other controlled documents.
Participate in cross-functional continuous improvement initiatives focused on improving business processes, operational effectiveness, and quality outcomes.
Support change management activities by coordinating reviews, routing approvals, tracking implementation actions, and maintaining associated records.
Promote quality awareness throughout the organization by serving as a resource for quality processes, documentation requirements, and training expectations.
Other duties as assigned by management.