QUALITY MANAGER

Power Drives Inc.; Buffalo (NY); On-site; USD 125,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Power Drives, Inc. in Buffalo, NY, seeks a hands-on Quality Manager to lead the Quality department, ensuring ISO 9001:2015 certification and continuous improvement across operations.

You will set strategic initiatives, manage programs, and partner with other departments to build a culture of quality and accountability. Responsibilities include leading root-cause analysis, supplier quality, audits, and PPAP/APQP processes, while coaching staff and directing budgetary plans.

Qualifications

• In-depth knowledge of quality systems and ISO 9001:2015 standards.
• Excellent oral and written communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong problem solving and root cause analysis abilities.
• Proven ability to lead, motivate, and build teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop companywide strategic Quality initiatives and staffing plan.
• Organize, implement, and manage activities to maintain ISO 9001:2015 certification.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of quality control measurements.
• Analyze quality data to identify trends and areas for improvement.
• Oversee the root cause analysis for customer complaints and implement corrective actions.
• Lead and train staff in quality standards; contract outside training when appropriate.
• Coordinate with suppliers to ensure quality requirements are met.
• Conduct internal audits and participate in external audits as required.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations and standards.
• Prepare and present reports on quality performance to senior management.
• Coordinate and direct Quality Department activities in APQP and PPAP related processes.
• Coordinate and direct the Quality Department activities in development, maintenance, and revision of Control Plans and process FMEAs.
• Improve process control through improved capability and error‑proofing.
• Provide exceptional customer service for both internal and external customers.
• Responsible for developing and executing within department budget.
• Other tasks as assigned.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Quality systems

Root cause analysis

Communication skills

Education

4-year technical degree

Job description

Power Drives, Inc. is a Buffalo‑based manufacturer specializing in custom‑engineered hose, tube, and fluid conveyance systems for a wide range of industrial and mobile equipment applications. Founded in 1946, PDI is known for delivering high‑quality, reliable solutions backed by strong engineering expertise and decades of industry experience.

Objective

To successfully organize and manage all activities required to ensure that the PDI quality system is implemented, maintained, and continuously improved at all levels. A Quality Manager oversees the quality assurance processes within an organization and works closely with various departments to create a culture of continuous improvement.

This role requires a “hands on” manager that is actively involved in the day‑to‑day activities as well as setting and implementing the short- and long‑term goals and objectives.

This role is 100% onsite

Minimum Requirements

• 4-year technical degree preferred
• 5 years Quality Management/Supervision preferred
• Experience in quality systems –ISO 9001:2015 Quality System preferred
• Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing preferred

Job Requirements

• In depth working knowledge of quality systems
• High level of oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills
• Strong motivational, team building, influencing and decision‑making skills
• Strong problem solving and root cause analysis skills

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop companywide strategic Quality initiatives and a staffing plan to support the initiatives.
• Organize, implement, and manage all activities to maintain ISO 9001:2015 certification.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of quality control measurements.
• Analyze quality data to identify trends and areas for improvement.
• Oversee the root cause analysis for customer complaints and implement corrective actions.
• Lead and train staff in quality standards and best practices. Contract outside training where appropriate.
• Coordinate with suppliers to ensure quality requirements are met.
• Conduct internal audits and participate in external audits as required.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations and standards.
• Prepare and present reports on quality performance to senior management.
• Coordinate and direct Quality Department activities in APQP and PPAP related processes.
• Coordinate and direct the Quality Department activities in development, maintenance, and revision of Control Plans and process FMEAs.
• Improve process control through improved capability and error‑proofing.
• Provide exceptional customer service for both internal and external customers.
• Responsible for developing and executing within department budget.
• Other tasks as assigned.

Physical Requirements

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit for extended periods, use hands to operate a computer and office equipment, and communicate effectively via phone and email. The employee may occasionally need to stand, walk, reach with hands and arms, and lift or move items up to 10 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Pay Range

Starting at $125,000-140,000 plus annual incentive plan

The referenced pay range represents the minimum and maximum compensation for this job. Individual salaries will be set within the compensation range and determined by factors such as market data, education, experience, qualifications, expertise, and internal equity considerations.

2026 Buffalo's Business First Best Places To Work Finalist