Quality Assurance Manager – Fabricated Components

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Quality Assurance Manager – Fabricated Components to lead and manage all quality assurance activities related to sheet metal, structural, and welded fabrications. This role will ensure that all fabricated products meet customer specifications, regulatory standards, and internal quality benchmarks. The ideal candidate brings strong knowledge of fabrication processes, welding standards, inspection methods, and a proactive approach to continuous improvement.

Key Focus Areas:

1. Quality Management for Fabrication Processes

• • Oversee QA/QC operations for processes including cutting, forming, welding, machining, and assembly.

  • Ensure compliance with applicable codes and standards (e.g., AWS D1.1, ASME, ISO 9001, ISO 3834).

2. Inspection & Testing Oversight

• • Manage dimensional inspections, weld inspections (visual and NDT), and first-article approvals.

  • Implement inspection plans and use statistical process control (SPC) for in-process monitoring.

3. Documentation & Compliance

• • Maintain inspection reports, welding documentation (WPS, PQR, WPQ), material traceability, and quality records.

  • Prepare for and support internal and external audits, including customer and third-party inspections.

4. Continuous Improvement & Root Cause Analysis

• • Lead CAPA (Corrective and Preventive Action) processes and quality improvement initiatives.

  • Drive reduction in rework, scrap, and customer complaints through Lean and Six Sigma practices.

5. Cross-Functional Collaboration

• • Work closely with Engineering, Fabrication, Supply Chain, and Production to ensure quality integration.

  • Support product launches and design changes with early quality input and feasibility checks.

6. Team Management & Development

• • Lead and mentor quality inspectors, welding inspectors, and quality engineers.

  • Conduct training on quality standards, tools, and best practices across the team.

Core Responsibilities:

• • Establish and enforce quality standards for all fabricated components and assemblies.

  • Manage incoming, in-process, and final inspection protocols and schedules.

  • Develop quality plans and inspection documentation for new and existing products.

  • Investigate quality issues, lead root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions.

  • Interface with customers on quality issues, non-conformance reports (NCRs), and audits.

  • Utilize quality tools such as PFMEA, control plans, fishbone diagrams, and 8D reports.

  • Maintain calibration of inspection equipment and ensure metrology standards are met.

Required Qualifications:

• • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Quality Engineering, or related field.

  • 8–10+ years of experience in quality assurance, with 3–5 years focused on fabricated components.

  • In-depth knowledge of fabrication and welding processes (MIG, TIG, SMAW), materials, and tolerances.

  • Experience with ISO 9001, AS9100, or equivalent quality management systems.

  • Proficient with quality tools and software (e.g., Minitab, SPC software, ERP/MES systems).

Preferred Qualifications:

• • Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) or Certified Quality Engineer (CQE).

  • Familiarity with GD&T, NDT methods (UT, PT, MT), and mechanical inspection equipment (CMM, calipers, micrometers).

  • Experience in sectors such as aerospace, heavy equipment, defense, or structural fabrication.

  • Working knowledge of APQP, PPAP, and control plan creation.