8D, Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP), Analysis Skills, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Automotive Industry, Candidate Screening, Communication Skills, Consulting, Continuous Improvement, Corrective Action, Corrective and Preventative Action (CAPA) Systems, Cross-Functional, Customer Relations, Detail Oriented, Documentation, Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), Genetics, Hospital, ISO 9001, Leadership, Maintain Compliance, Manufacturing, Manufacturing Operations, Manufacturing Systems, Multitasking, Organizational Development/Management, Organizational Skills, Performance Management, Performance Metrics, Plastic Injection Molding, Plastics Manufacturing, Problem Solving Skills, Process Capability, Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (PFMEA), Process Improvement, Process Quality, Product Support, Product/Service Launch, Production Part Approval Process (PPAP), Project Portfolio Management (PPM), Quality Assurance, Quality Engineering, Quality Management, Quality Metrics, Regulatory Compliance, Regulatory Requirements, Root Cause Analysis, Structured Analysis, Systems Administration/Management, Team Lead/Manager, Time Management, Traceability
Job Description: Quality Manager
The Quality Manager leads and develops all aspects of the quality function within a fast-paced plastic injection molding manufacturing environment. This hands-on leadership role drives the quality management system, ensures compliance with automotive standards, and champions continuous improvement initiatives across the organization. The position requires deep expertise in automotive quality standards, documentation, and quality systems management, with exposure to medical manufacturing considered a strong advantage.
Responsibilities
- Lead, develop, and manage the Quality team, including auditors, inspectors, and quality engineers, to ensure high performance and clear accountability.
- Own, maintain, and continuously improve the Quality Management System (QMS) in alignment with IATF and ISO 9001 standards.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for all customer quality issues, complaints, and audits, ensuring timely response and effective resolution.
- Drive structured root cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions using tools such as 8D, 5 Whys, and Fishbone diagrams.
- Lead the planning, development, and execution of APQP, PPAP, PFMEA, and Control Plans to support robust product and process quality.
- Ensure robust documentation control, traceability, and compliance across all quality processes and records.
- Partner closely with manufacturing and engineering teams to improve processes, reduce defects, and enhance overall product quality.
- Oversee internal, customer, and third-party audits, ensuring readiness, compliance, and successful outcomes.
- Track, analyze, and report quality KPIs such as scrap, PPM, and customer complaints, and implement data-driven improvement actions.
- Support new product launches by leading part qualification and validation activities to meet customer and regulatory requirements.
- Promote and reinforce a culture of quality, accountability, and continuous improvement throughout the organization.
- Apply quality engineering and quality assurance principles to strengthen process capability and product reliability.
- Manage CAPA activities to ensure timely closure, effectiveness verification, and prevention of recurrence.
Essential Skills
- 8+ years of quality experience in a plastic injection molding manufacturing environment.
- Automotive industry experience is required, with Tier 1 or Tier 2 supplier experience preferred.
- Strong knowledge of IATF and/or ISO 9001 quality management systems and their practical implementation.
- Proven leadership experience managing and developing quality teams, including auditors, inspectors, and quality engineers.
- Hands-on experience with core quality tools: APQP, PPAP, FMEA, SPC, and MSA.
- Strong experience in quality documentation, audits, and compliance systems within a manufacturing environment.
- Demonstrated experience in quality engineering, quality assurance, and CAPA management.
- Proficiency in root cause analysis and problem-solving using 8D, 5 Whys, and Fishbone methodologies.
- Excellent problem-solving skills, analytical thinking, and attention to detail.
- Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional environment and communicate clearly with internal teams and customers.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Quality, or a related field is preferred.
- Experience in medical manufacturing is a strong plus.
- Experience supporting new product launches, including part qualification and validation activities.
- Demonstrated ability to drive continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing operations.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to influence and promote a culture of quality and accountability at all levels of the organization.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Deer Park, IL.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $50.00 - $55.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
- Medical, dental & vision
- Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
- 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
- Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
- Short and long-term disability
- Health Spending Account (HSA)
- Transportation benefits
- Employee Assistance Program
- Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Deer Park,IL.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Jun 19, 2026.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.