Quality Assurance Manager

Job Title: Quality Assurance Manager
 Location: 15 National Ave, Fletcher, NC 28732
 Department: Machine Shop
 Reports To: Manufacturing Manager
 FLSA Status: Exempt
 Job Type: Full-Time

Position Overview

Microtech Knives is seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Quality Assurance Manager to lead quality initiatives across multiple machine shops in two states. This individual will play a key role in ensuring that all products meet the highest standards of precision, consistency, and performance. The ideal candidate is analytical, decisive, and thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment where excellence is non-negotiable.

Key Responsibilities

Quality Management & Compliance

• Develop, implement, and manage quality control processes and inspection procedures across multiple machine shops in two states
• Monitor product quality throughout all production stages; identify and respond to deviations or non-conformities
• Ensure compliance with internal specifications, industry standards, and regulatory requirements

Process & Continuous Improvement

• Lead root cause analysis and drive corrective/preventative actions to reduce scrap and improve first-pass yield
• Analyze trends in production quality and implement improvements to reduce defects and increase efficiency
• Identify automation and optimization opportunities that enhance the quality assurance process

Team Leadership

• Supervise, train, and mentor a team of quality technicians and inspectors
• Promote a culture of accountability, precision, and continuous improvement
• Provide clear expectations and performance feedback to ensure alignment with department goals

Supplier & Vendor Quality

• Collaborate with Purchasing and Engineering to qualify and monitor suppliers
• Conduct supplier audits to verify adherence to quality standards and resolve quality issues with incoming materials

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain detailed records of inspections, test results, non-conformances, and corrective actions
• Prepare and present quality metrics and improvement plans to senior leadership

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality Management, or a related technical field; equivalent experience considered
• Minimum 5 years of experience in a quality assurance/quality control role in a machining or manufacturing environment
• Strong working knowledge of quality management systems (QMS), ISO standards, and industry best practices
• Working knowledge of CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machine) operations, setup, and programming
• Proficient in inspection tools (e.g., calipers, micrometers), statistical process control (SPC), and quality software
• Demonstrated leadership ability with experience managing quality teams
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Some travel involved to other shops 25%

Preferred Qualifications

• Six Sigma, ASQ, or other quality certification
• Experience with ERP and MES systems
• Background in the knife, cutlery, or precision manufacturing industry

What We Offer

• Competitive Compensation
• Comprehensive Benefits Package (Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, 401(k))
• Growth & Advancement Opportunities
• Employee Discounts
• An Energetic and Supportive Team Environment
• A Culture Rooted in Excellence, Innovation, and Craftsmanship

Core Values at Microtech Knives

1. Uncompromising Excellence – Holding the highest standards in design, craftsmanship, and performance
2. Built to Dominate – Leading through precision, quality, and grit
3. Own the Work – Taking full responsibility for quality and results
4. Fearlessly Forward – Embracing innovation and pushing boundaries
5. Loyal to Our Core – Building loyalty, trust, and respect with employees and customers
6. Rooted in American Grit – Proudly made in the USA and committed to community and service

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Microtech Knives, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.