5-7 years of experience in quality management or continuous improvement roles within manufacturing.
In-depth knowledge of automotive quality standards, particularly IATF 16949.
Proven track record in preparing for and successfully closing automotive customer audits.
Hands-on expertise with automotive quality tools like APQP, FMEA, and SPC.
Strong skills in root-cause analysis and corrective action methodologies.
Effective project management abilities to influence cross-departmental actions without direct authority.
Collaborative mindset with a focus on engaging directly with manufacturing teams.
Responsibilities
Lead the preparation for audits by creating a structured project plan with clear priorities and deadlines.
Evaluate current practices against customer and internal quality requirements.
Identify quality gaps and collaborate with teams to implement corrective actions.
Enhance procedures and quality records to support audit readiness.
Ensure alignment between process documentation and actual shop-floor practices.
Review and analyze PPAP documentation and process capability data.
Conduct internal assessments and coach staff on compliance and process explanation.
Utilize structured problem-solving techniques to resolve recurring quality issues.
Support customer audits and manage follow-up actions effectively.
Empower the team with sustainable processes and ownership post-assignment.
Benefits
Opportunity to work hands-on in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
Chance to make a significant impact on quality processes and team performance.
Collaborative work culture focused on continuous improvement.
Access to professional development opportunities in quality management.
Potential for long-term engagement with the team beyond the assignment.
Full Job Description
This assignment is well-suited to a former or recently retired Quality Manager, Automotive Quality Leader, or Continuous Improvement Lead who enjoys hands-on work, brings structure to complex projects, and can help a small manufacturing team make meaningful progress within a defined timeframe. This is not a consulting role. This person will need to be involved in execution of the project goals.
Key Responsibilities
Lead audit preparation, establishing a clear project plan with priorities, owners, deadlines, and regular progress updates.
Assess current practices against customer audit requirements, applicable automotive quality requirements, and internal procedures.
Identify gaps, prioritize risks, and work with Quality, Manufacturing, and leadership to implement and verify corrective actions.
Review and improve procedures, work instructions, quality records, and supporting audit evidence.
Evaluate alignment among process flow diagrams, process FMEAs, control plans, and shop-floor practices.
Review relevant PPAP documentation, measurement system studies, process capability data, and statistical process controls.
Conduct internal assessments and mock audits; coach employees on explaining their processes and demonstrating compliance.
Apply root-cause analysis and structured problem-solving methods to address recurring issues.
Support the customer audit and coordinate follow-up responses and corrective actions.
Leave the team with clear ownership, practical tools, and sustainable processes after the assignment ends.
Required Qualifications
Prior experience as a Quality Manager, Continuous Improvement Lead, or comparable manufacturing quality leader.
Strong working knowledge of automotive quality systems, including IATF 16949 and customer-specific requirements.
Demonstrated success preparing manufacturing operations for automotive customer audits and closing audit findings.
Hands-on experience with automotive quality core tools: APQP, control plans, PPAP, FMEA, MSA, and SPC.
Experience with corrective action, root-cause analysis, and structured problem solving, such as 8D and 5 Whys.
Strong project management skills and the ability to drive action across departments without direct supervisory authority.
A practical, collaborative approach and willingness to work directly with employees on the manufacturing floor.
Preferred Qualifications
IATF 16949 internal or lead auditor training or certification.
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt or Green Belt certification.
Experience facilitating Kaizen events and implementing measurable process improvements.
Experience in precision component manufacturing, metal forming, or automotive supplier operations.
Familiarity with IQMS or similar manufacturing ERP systems.
What Success Looks Like
A team prepared to demonstrate its processes confidently, priority gaps addressed with verified evidence, well-organized audit documentation, and clear ownership of any remaining actions. The goal is both successful audit preparation and improvements the team can sustain.
