A Quality Manager manages quality control in an organization or for a project. Develops quality control policies and monitors quality in different settings such as manufacturing production, technology product development and research laboratories
Maple Grove, MN (On-site / Hybrid model available)
Employment Type:
Full-Time 1. Position Overview Our client is one of the oldest and most respected manufacturers of high-end, high-fidelity audio equipment in the world. Since 1970, their mission has been to advance the state-of-the-art in music reproduction through handcrafted vacuum-tube and hybrid electronics, meticulous engineering, and uncompromising craftsmanship. We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Quality Manager to lead and elevate our quality assurance and quality control strategies. In this role, you will oversee end-to-end quality systems—from supplier raw materials and precision mechanical/electronic components to final assembly, electro-acoustic testing, critical listening evaluations, and after-sales failure analysis. You will work closely with Engineering, Operations, Purchasing, and Production to champion a culture of continuous improvement and zero-defect craftsmanship. 2. Key Responsibilities Quality System Governance & Continuous Improvement Design, implement, and maintain quality assurance processes across all phases of manufacturing in accordance with industry best practices and ISO standards. Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) for quality—such as First Pass Yield (FPY), Scrap Rate, Supplier Defect Rate (PPM), and Return Material Authorization (RMA) rates—and regularly report metrics to executive leadership. Lead root-cause analysis activities (using 8D, 5-Whys, Fishbone diagrams) and implement robust Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA) plans. New Product Introduction (NPI) & Design Quality Partner with R&D and Engineering teams during the product development lifecycle to conduct DFMEA/PFMEA and define critical-to-quality (CTQ) parameters. Establish quality acceptance criteria for new vacuum-tube preamplifiers, power amplifiers, DACs, and audio components. Oversee pilot build quality validations, electro-acoustic performance benchmarks, and environmental/safety compliance testing. Supplier Quality Management (SQE) Develop and manage the Supplier Quality Assurance framework, conducting routine audits of vendors providing custom transformers, printed circuit boards (PCBs), vacuum tubes, CNC-machined chassis, and passive/active electronic components. Establish incoming quality control (IQC) sampling plans and incoming inspection standards. Drive Supplier Corrective Action Requests (SCAR) to resolve component-level non-conformances swiftly. Manufacturing Quality & Acoustic Validation Oversee In-Process Quality Control (IPQC) and Final Quality Control (FQC) workflows on the factory floor, ensuring strict adherence to assembly standard operating procedures (SOPs). Standardize automated test protocols using industry-standard equipment (e.g., Audio Precision analyzers, sound measurement systems). Integrate and formalize the critical listening evaluation process to ensure every unit meets Audio Research's legendary sonic signature before shipment. RMA & Customer Quality Support Analyze field returns, warranty repairs, and customer feedback data to identify systemic quality trends. Collaborate with the customer service and technical support teams to resolve complex customer quality inquiries. 3.
Required Qualifications & Experience Education:
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electro-Acoustics, Quality Management, or a related technical discipline.
Experience:
Minimum 5-7+ years of progressive quality engineering and management experience in high-end audio electronics, consumer electronics, or precision electro-mechanical manufacturing.
Audio Industry Knowledge:
Solid understanding of analog circuit design, power supplies, high-end vacuum tube / solid-state audio architecture, and signal path integrity.
Testing & Measurement:
Hands-on experience with audio measurement software and hardware (e.g., Audio Precision APx, SoundCheck, oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers).
Quality Methodologies:
Deep familiarity with quality tools and frameworks (ISO 9001, APQP, PPAP, SPC, FMEA, 8D, CAPA).
Leadership Skills:
Proven ability to manage cross-functional quality initiatives, mentor team members, and foster a collaborative quality culture.
Communication:
Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English. 4. Preferred Qualifications Active certification as a Certified Quality Engineer (CQE), Certified Quality Manager (CQM), or Six Sigma Green/Black Belt. Deep personal passion for high-fidelity audio, audiophile sound reproduction, or music gear craftsmanship. Prior experience working in medium-volume, high-mix precision manufacturing environments.
