Quality Manager at Ultra Machining Company, Inc (UMC) – Monticello, Minnesota

At UMC, we don’t just make products - we innovate, solve problems, and build a better future. As a proud, privately owned second-generation manufacturer, we’ve earned our reputation as leaders in our industry by producing highly complex parts with precision and ingenuity. What sets us apart? Our people. We’re a passionate team that values collaboration, continuous learning, and going above and beyond. If this sounds like your kind of workplace, keep reading!

Why UMC?

• Generous PTO: Start with 4 weeks of paid time off per year, with accrual from day one.
• Competitive Pay: Attractive base salary for day shift roles, with opportunities for growth.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, short- and long-term disability, and paid holidays.
• 401k Match: Dollar-for-dollar matching up to 5%.
• Professional Growth: Tuition reimbursement for professional development.
• Work Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm, onsite in Monticello, MN.

About the Role

The Manager of Quality is responsible for managing the Quality Engineering organizational structure to support strategic initiatives, satisfy customer requirements, and maintain quality control.

What You'll Do

The primary duties and responsibilities of the Manager of Quality consist of, but are not limited to:

Lead, Manage, and Hold Accountable

• Working “on” the business by providing clear direction, creating an opening for employees, and taking time to think.
• Working “in” the business by creating clear expectations, communicating well, and ensuring things get done.
• Create a work environment where people are fully engaged and highly accountable.

Quality Engineering Strategy

• Implement departmental goals and objectives to attain the business objectives set by the Director of Quality, making sure goals align with overall company goals.
• Plan, direct, and coordinate the quality engineering activities and resources to support company goals, objectives, and profitability of operations.
• Organize and structure the quality department alongside the engineering department to facilitate lean, efficient, and effective performance of business operations, focused on part validations, process development, troubleshooting, and creation of control plans and risk documentation.

Daily Department Management

• Establish quality policies, procedures, and processes to maintain product quality and customer satisfaction.
• Ensure compliance with applicable quality regulations, standards, and certifications (e.g., ISO, AS, etc.).
• Manages the manual and electronic data collection process including control of documentation and configuration management to support accurate data collection.
• Monitor and evaluate product quality through inspections, audits, and testing protocols.
• Operational decision-making to fulfill the goals and objectives of the organization and the Quality Department
• Interface with customers and suppliers to understand quality expectations and address quality concerns.
• Provide audit support, both internal and external, as required.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Lead quality-related projects, task forces, and teams to drive quality initiatives across the organization.
• Partner with engineering, manufacturing, and other departments to resolve quality issues.
• Provide technical and analytical troubleshooting input regarding quality related matters.

Continuous Improvement

• Conduct risk assessments, and implement quality control measures to identify defects, non-conformities, and areas for improvement aimed at improving product quality, reliability, and resources to support company goals, objectives, and profitability.
• Drive corrective and preventive action (CAPAs) program to enhance product and process quality.
• Keeps abreast of new trends, innovations, and opportunities of the engineering functions within the manufacturing industry.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or applicable area or work experience in place of education.
• 10+ years’ experience in Manufacturing or Engineering, preferably in Precision Machining within the Medical or Aerospace Industries.
• AQS and/or CQE Certification preferred.
• 3+ years' experience in managing engineers and/or technical resources and projects.
• Understanding of best practice methods in inspection, calibration, and automated inspection programming.
• Working knowledge of Regulatory requirements including standards within, ISO 9001, ISO 13485, AS9100, RoHS, REACH & ITAR.
• Advanced GD&T application.
• Experienced in Measurement System Analysis, & Statistical Process Control.

Competencies

• Ability to express ideas, share information, listen actively, and demonstrate professionalism in written and verbal communications.
• Strong problem-solving and technical skills related to materials and process technologies.
• The ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong business & financial acumen.
• Excellent people management skills.
• Ability to understand, quickly react, and motivate others to adapt to the changing organization environment.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate.
• Embodies the personal commitment to the shared core values of UMC: Curiosity, Versatility, Integrity, Grit, Go Beyond

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Lifting up to 15 lbs.
• Dexterity with computers - the ability to type and use a mouse.