Papermaking Quality Engineer — Six Sigma & Lean Lead

Hollingsworth & Vose; Groton (MA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Hollingsworth & Vose seeks a Quality Specialist to support QA/QC, drive process studies, and lead continuous improvement initiatives in the MA Mills. The role applies Six Sigma and Lean methods to improve product quality, reduce waste, and enhance reliability.

The candidate should bring a strong papermaking background, problem-solving skills, and the ability to collaborate with Process Engineers and Supervisors on long-term corrective actions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or minimum 3 to 7 years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Black belt certified or willingness to certify within first 3 years in role
• Strong papermaking and technical background
• Sound mathematical and technical skills
• Strong leadership ability
• Flexible and positive attitude towards change
• Team player
• Good verbal and written communication skills as well as a good listener
• Good investigative and problem-solving skills with excellent attention to detail
• Ability to think logically and methodically
• Ability to handle constant changes and multiple priorities efficiently and effectively
• Excellence Computer Skills, including Microsoft Suite and Minitab
• Familiarity with ISO 9001 and IATF

Responsibilities

• Supports studies and optimization of unit operations within papermaking operations
• Facilitate root cause analysis and corrective actions with cross functional teams
• Lead the Material review board (nonconforming material resolution)
• Aid in development of PFMEA’s, Control Plans, SOPs, and response plans
• Complete internal system, process, and product audits; participate in external audits
• Complete MSA for lab equipment as necessary
• Assist with maintaining lab equipment and document control system
• Support resolution of customer complaints related to process issues
• Establish production and quality control standards
• Measure organizational performance and report findings to managers
• Foster good employee relations and share results with production team
• Participate in teams to improve process-related issues
• Compile and store quality data; monitor product adherence to specs
• Maintain ISO & QS requirements; promote quality improvements
• Establish quality initiatives to ensure customer satisfaction
• Support PPAP processes
• Support new product development and dual qualification using statistics
• Other related duties as assigned

Skills

Root cause analysis

Six Sigma

Lean manufacturing

Leadership

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree or 3–7 years related experience

Black belt certification or willingness to certify

Tools

8D methodology

PFMEA

Control Plans

SOPs

MS Office

Job description

Hollingsworth & Vose seeks a Quality Specialist to support QA/QC, drive process studies, and lead continuous improvement initiatives in the MA Mills. The role applies Six Sigma and Lean methods to improve product quality, reduce waste, and enhance reliability.

The candidate should bring a strong papermaking background, problem-solving skills, and the ability to collaborate with Process Engineers and Supervisors on long-term corrective actions.