Quality Manager

Kistler Group (China); Town of Amherst (NY); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

401(k) match

Vacation time

Life insurance

Job summary

Kistler Instrument Corporation is seeking a Quality Manager to lead NA quality operations, ensuring AS9100 compliance, handling non-conformance, and accelerating continuous improvement across manufacturing, engineering, and support. The role emphasizes safety governance and cross-functional leadership.

The ideal candidate brings a strong background in QMS, root cause analysis, and audit execution, with Lead Auditor experience preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, Quality Management, or related field.
• 5+ years’ experience in Quality Management with AS9100 experience required.
• Strong NCR processes, root-cause analysis tools (5-Why, Fishbone), and CAPA systems.
• Proven ability to design, implement, and improve quality and business processes.
• Experience with internal and external auditing, Lead Auditor certification preferred.
• Knowledge of EHS protocols and safety program management.

Responsibilities

• Lead AS9100 compliance across North American operations, manage documentation and internal/external audits.
• Oversee non-conformance process including root cause analysis and CAPA actions.
• Develop and improve quality processes across manufacturing, engineering, and support functions.
• Coordinate internal quality and safety audits and support third-party/customer audits.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to reduce variability, waste, and improve product quality.
• Monitor key quality metrics and drive accountability.
• Lead safety and quality incident investigations and corrective actions.
• Deliver quality and safety training to workforce.

Skills

AS9100 experience

NCR processes

Root cause analysis

CAPA systems

QMS software

Auditing (lead/internal)

Safety programs

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field

Tools

QMS software

ERP systems

Statistical tools

Job description

At Kistler, we’re revolutionizing industries with our cutting-edge dynamic measurement technology, helping customers optimize products and processes. From automobile development to smart factories, our Swiss-designed sensor solutions are driving the future of electrified drive technology, industrial automation, and emission reduction.

Purpose of the position

We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Quality Manager to lead our North American quality operations. This individual will play a key role in maintaining AS9100 compliance, managing non-conformance processes, and driving continuous improvement initiatives across the organization. In addition, this role oversees and ensures adherence to all applicable safety standards and protocols in the region. The ideal candidate brings a strong background in Quality Management Systems, root cause analysis, and audit execution, along with a passion for building a proactive culture of quality and safety.

Your typical day

• Lead and maintain AS9100 compliance across all North American operations, including managing documentation, conducting internal audits, and supporting external audits.
• Oversee the non-conformance process, including root cause analysis, corrective/preventive actions (CAPA), and resolution tracking.
• Develop, implement, and improve quality processes, procedures, and standards across manufacturing, engineering, and support functions.
• Coordinate and conduct internal quality and safety audits, and support third-party and customer audits.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to identify and eliminate process inefficiencies, improve product quality, and reduce variation and waste.
• Monitor and report on key quality metrics, driving accountability and transparency throughout the organization.
• Lead incident investigations and corrective actions related to safety and quality issues.
• Develop and deliver quality and safety training to ensure workforce awareness and compliance.
• Serve as the primary regional liaison for quality and safety topics with customers, suppliers, and internal teams.
• Support and maintain ISO and customer-specific quality certifications and documentation.

Your profile

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Quality Management, or related field.
• Minimum of 5+ years’ experience in Quality Management, with direct AS9100 experience required.
• Strong understanding of Non-Conformance Report (NCR) processes, root cause analysis tools (5-Why, Fishbone, etc.), and CAPA systems.
• Proven ability to design, implement, and improve quality and business processes.
• Experience with internal and external auditing, ideally with Lead Auditor certification.
• Knowledge of EHS (Environmental Health & Safety) protocols and safety program management.
• Highly organized, with strong attention to detail and analytical skills.
• Effective communication and leadership skills with the ability to work across teams and with senior management.
• Proficiency in quality tools and systems (e.g., QMS software, ERP systems, statistical tools).

Preferred:

• Certified Lead Auditor (AS9100 or ISO 9001) (preferred).
• Lean, Six Sigma, or other Continuous Improvement certifications.
• Experience in the aerospace, defense, or advanced manufacturing industries.

What you can expect from us

At Kistler, we value your expertise and offer opportunities for professional growth in a global environment. Our competitive benefits package includes:

• Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverage
• 401(k) plan with a 4% company match
• Generous personal and vacation time

Join a team that’s shaping the future of measurement technology. We look forward to meeting you!

Kistler Instrument Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer.