Quality Excellence Manager

Howmet; Mauston (WI); On-site; USD 130,000 - 145,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) matching

Paid holidays

Vacation

Job summary

Howmet is seeking a Quality Assurance leader to manage the QA department and drive continuous improvement across inspection, testing, and supplier surveillance. You will develop site procedures aligned with the Quality Assurance Manual and coach a high‑performing team in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.

The role emphasizes preventive quality systems, data‑driven problem solving, and strong cross‑functional collaboration with engineering and operations. U.S. work authorization required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Metallurgy, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• 5+ years experience with preventive Quality Systems or related military experience.
• 3+ years supervisory experience overseeing Quality Systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Quality Assurance department, supervising personnel and managing hiring/training.
• Oversee inspection, lab, and testing activities for efficiency and accuracy.
• Ensure ISO 9001 and regulatory compliance; lead internal audits and corrective actions.
• Coordinate with customers, engineering, and operations to drive process improvements.

Skills

Leadership

Cross-functional communication

Problem solving

Quality systems

Process improvement

Data analysis

Project management

Coaching

Audits

Vendor surveillance

Education

B.S. in Engineering/Metallurgy/Mechanical

Degree from accredited university

Tools

Micrometers

Optical comparators

Hardness testers

Torque testers

ASQ Certifications CQE/CQM/CRE/CQA/CSSBB

Job description

Responsibilities

• Manages the Quality Assurance department:
  • Supervise and appraise performance for all Quality Assurance personnel; hire, train and recommend salary adjustments for reporting employees.
  • Schedule and track inspection, lab, and testing activities to achieve maximum effectiveness and efficiency.
• Interprets pertinent customer, corporate and division quality standards for plant personnel; develops and maintains site procedures and processes in support of division Quality Assurance Manual. Leads and promotes the quality assurance philosophy including preventive quality systems.
• Implements/maintains procedures for inspection, disposition and record retention for incoming raw materials and components, reviews quality issues with suppliers and provides supplier surveillance assistance as needed.
• Proactively involved in corrective action and problem‑solving strategies. Actively pursues and identifies root cause of non‑conformance, is responsible for measurement of non‑conformance costs and secures and maintains data collection and statistical systems to aid in process control, root‑cause problem identification. Coordinates regular management meetings to review corrective action and quality systems. Publishes regular reports and identified trends.
• Interfaces with Customers, Engineering and Operations to identify requirements, plan for product realization and support continuous improvements in manufacturing processes and systems.
• Ensures that the gage calibration system is effective and complies with company operating procedures. Maintains a system for calibrating all key inspection, gaging and process instruments and works with vendors to improve inspection techniques and equipment.
• Responsible for ensuring compliance with ISO9001 and industry regulatory requirements. Coordinates and conducts customer and accreditation audits. Enhances and implements the internal audit system and associated corrective actions. Leads training efforts for HFS‑Kingston employees regarding total preventive quality.
• Develops effective relationships with all levels of staff and functional groups. Possesses an ability to influence outcomes, with higher‑order communication, change‑management, and influencing skills.
• Be a skilled people manager and developer that deeply understands the importance of challenging, motivating, and developing high‑performance teams. Enjoys and has experience in coaching and mentoring others to achieve success in fluid, project‑team‑based environments.
• Works in a safe manner that promotes the health and well‑being of the individual and the environment.

Benefits/Salary

• The position includes competitive wages and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance (medical, dental, vision), an excellent 401k matching program, and paid holidays and vacation.
• The annual salary range for this position is $130,000 – $145,000.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited university required. Preferred to be in Engineering, Metallurgy, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• 5+ years experience with preventive Quality Systems or relative military experience.
• 3+ years of supervisory‑level experience overseeing Quality Systems.
• Demonstrated record of achievement in improving operational metrics.
• Ability to handle multiple projects concurrently and reprioritize as needed.
• Excellent problem‑solving and analytical skills.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively communicate and collaborate cross‑functionally.
• Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this option.
• This position is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR) which requires U.S. Person status. ITAR defines U.S. person as a U.S. citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (Green Card holder), political asylum seeker, or refugee.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with mechanical inspection equipment such as micrometers, optical comparators, hardness testers, and torque testers.
• Demonstrated ability to influence site culture and drive cultural transformation toward proactive quality‑assurance practices.
• Experience in leadership, mentoring, and project management.
• Basic knowledge of SPC methods.
• ASQ Certifications: CQE, CQM, CRE, CQA or CSSBB.
• Lean Six Sigma Certification.
• Knowledge of and direct experience with AS, IATF 16949, ISO 9001, ISO 17025, and NADCAP.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.

If you need assistance to complete your application due to a disability, please email [e-mail].