Quality Manager – Automotive Manufacturing

Location: Columbus, OH
Salary: $80,000–$100,000 annually
Job Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire | On-Site

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Quality Manager to lead quality operations within an automotive manufacturing environment in Columbus, Ohio. This position is ideal for a quality professional with strong automotive manufacturing experience, proven leadership abilities, and expertise in supplier quality, process quality, and new model launches.

The ideal candidate will be a hands-on leader who can develop high-performing teams, strengthen supplier relationships, improve manufacturing quality, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. This role offers an opportunity to oversee multiple quality functions while contributing directly to operational performance and customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage New Model Quality, Process Quality, and Supplier Quality functions to ensure consistent manufacturing quality and performance.
• Develop, mentor, and support quality associates while establishing clear departmental goals and performance expectations.
• Oversee quality activities associated with new product introductions, new model launches, and manufacturing process changes.
• Manage supplier quality performance, develop strong supplier partnerships, and drive corrective and preventive actions.
• Lead investigations into internal and supplier quality issues, identifying root causes and implementing effective corrective actions.
• Oversee quality systems, internal audits, compliance activities, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Apply automotive quality methodologies, including APQP, PPAP, FMEA, SPC, and structured problem-solving techniques.
• Establish and monitor quality KPIs, departmental budgets, and business plans.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations, and suppliers to resolve quality concerns and improve processes.
• Champion 5S initiatives, workplace organization, and continuous improvement throughout the manufacturing operation.
• Ensure quality standards support customer requirements, production efficiency, and successful new model implementation.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of quality leadership experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong automotive manufacturing quality experience.
• Experience managing or leading supplier quality, process quality, and new model launch activities.
• Working knowledge of APQP, PPAP, FMEA, SPC, root cause analysis, and corrective action methodologies.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing quality systems, internal audits, and continuous improvement processes.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and develop quality personnel.
• Excellent communication, organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Ability to work on-site in Columbus, Ohio.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related technical discipline; equivalent relevant experience will be considered.
• Experience leading multiple quality functions within an automotive manufacturing operation.
• Experience supporting automotive OEM or Tier 1/Tier 2 supplier quality requirements.
• Demonstrated success improving supplier quality performance, reducing defects, and strengthening quality systems.
• Experience managing departmental budgets, quality KPIs, and cross-functional improvement initiatives.
• Strong background in new model introductions, supplier development, and manufacturing process improvement.