Quality Control / Quality Assurance Manager (SMB) Job Description Template

Inspecting & Testing Products Performs or oversees daily sampling, inspections, and tests of raw materials, work-in-process, and finished goods to verify they meet established standards and specifications (including verifying correct labeling and packaging). Documents any non-conformances and quarantines substandard product to prevent defective items from reaching customers.

Establishing Quality Procedures Develops, updates, and enforces quality control policies, SOPs, and standards for the company. This includes creating checklists, work instructions, and acceptance criteria that align with industry regulations and customer requirements, and revising them as needed for continuous improvement.

Training and Coaching Staff Trains production line workers and QA/QC personnel on quality procedures, proper inspection techniques, and GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) standards Regularly communicates quality expectations, provides feedback or re-training when issues arise, and fosters a quality-conscious culture on the shop floor.

Overseeing QC Operations Supervises day-to-day quality control activities and any QC technicians/inspectors. Assigns inspection schedules, observes critical processes, and ensures the team accurately performs tests and follows protocols. Acts as the point of contact for quality on the production floor, promptly addressing any quality issues that come up during shifts.

Auditing & Compliance Conducts internal quality audits and routine process inspections to ensure compliance with internal standards and any relevant external regulations or certifications. Verifies that safety procedures and quality controls (e.g. sanitation, calibration, traceability) are strictly followed. Prepares the facility and documentation for external audits or inspections (e.g. ISO certification, customer audits) and leads the response to audit findings.

Issue Investigation & CAPA Investigates product quality problems or customer complaints to identify root causes. Leads cross-functional efforts to implement CAPAs (Corrective and Preventive Actions) for example, isolating a defective batch, coordinating rework/recall if needed, and updating processes to prevent recurrence. Communicates findings and fixes to all stakeholders and verifies that corrective actions are effective.

Monitoring Quality Metrics Tracks and analyzes quality data (e.g. defect rates, scrap/rework percentages, inspection tallies, customer returns) on an ongoing basis. Uses statistical tools to identify trends or variations. Provides regular reports on quality performance to management and uses metrics to drive continuous improvement initiatives (e.g. targeting the top defect causes for reduction). Sets quality KPIs and ensures the company is meeting targets for product excellence.

Supplier Quality Management Works with suppliers to ensure incoming materials and components meet the companys quality standards. Reviews supplier provided QA documentation, conducts occasional vendor audits or incoming inspections, and addresses any supplier-caused quality issues by coordinating with the vendor on improvements or rejecting shipments that dont conform. Ensures that supplier quality problems are resolved before materials enter production.

-Quality Systems & Standards Solid knowledge of Quality Management Systems (e.g. ISO 9001 principles) and maintaining documentation/control of procedures and records. Ability to develop and audit against quality standards and to navigate regulatory compliance relevant to the industry. -Data Analysis & SPC Proficiency in statistical quality control techniques and data analysis. Can calculate defect rates, analyze trends, and utilize tools like control charts or Pareto analysis to monitor processes. For example, comfortable using Excel or SPC software (Minitab, QI Macros, etc.) to interpret production data and spot issues -Technical Reading & Measurement Ability to read and interpret technical documents: product specifications, engineering drawings/blueprints, test methods, and equipment manuals. Skilled in using measurement instruments (calipers, gauges, scales) and understanding tolerances and calibration requirements to validate product dimensions and performance. -Root Cause & Problem Solving Methods Hands-on expertise with quality problem-solving tools such as 5 Whys, fishbone (Ishikawa) diagrams, and FMEA. Able to systematically investigate defects or process deviations, identify underlying causes, and implement effective corrective actions. -Software Proficiency Strong computer skills including typical office productivity software. Proficient with Microsoft Excel/Google Sheets for tracking quality metrics, creating charts and reports; Word/Docs for reporting and SOPs; and PowerPoint for training presentations. Familiarity with any QMS or ERP systems (for recording inspections, nonconformance logs, etc.) is a plus. -Industry-Specific Knowledge (If applicable) Knowledge of any industry-specific quality regulations or standards that apply to the companys product. For example, understanding HACCP if in food, GMP if in pharma, or UL/CE standards if relevant. Able to ensure compliance with these and handle necessary documentation and audits.

-Attention to Detail Almost obsessive level of detail orientation to catch errors and nip issues in the bud. Notices small discrepancies in measurements, paperwork, or processes that others might overlook. This is critical for maintaining high quality. -Communication Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Can clearly report quality findings, write concise but thorough reports and emails, and explain technical issues in plain language to production staff or executives. Practices active listening and constructive feedback when coaching others on quality issues. -Leadership & Teamwork Strong leadership skills to manage and motivate a team of QC inspectors or cross-functional colleagues. Leads by example on the floor, remains calm under pressure, and can resolve conflicts between quality and production diplomatically. Works collaboratively with other departments (production, engineering, customer service) to achieve quality goals without alienating them. -Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking Analytical thinker who approaches problems methodically When a quality issue arises, able to break down the problem, gather data, consult with experts if needed, and develop a logical action plan. Resourceful and able to make sound decisions quickly, especially when urgent quality decisions are needed (e.g. deciding to hold a shipment). -Time Management & Organization Exceptional ability to juggle multiple priorities efficiently. Manages routine inspections, documentation, training sessions, and issue resolution without letting tasks slip. Organizes records and schedules (e.g. calibration due dates, audit schedules) so that nothing is missed, which is vital in a small company where the QC Manager is accountable for many moving parts. -Assertiveness & Integrity in Enforcement Not afraid to speak up and halt production if necessary when quality is at risk, but does so professionally. Holds ground on non-negotiable quality standards while maintaining respectful relationships. Also demonstrates honesty and transparency readily communicates issues and owns up to mistakes, fostering trust.