Quality Manager

Blue Bird (NASDAQ: BLBD) is recognized as a technology leader and innovator of school buses since its founding in 1927. Our dedicated team members design, engineer and manufacture school buses with a singular focus on safety, reliability, and durability. School buses carry the most precious cargo in the world – 25 million children twice a day – making them the most trusted mode of student transportation. The company is the proven leader in low- and zero-emission school buses with more than 25,000 propane, natural gas, and electric powered buses sold. Blue Bird is transforming the student transportation industry through cleaner energy solutions. For more information on Blue Bird's complete product and service portfolio, visit www.blue-bird.com.

JOB SUMMARY

The Quality Manager will report to the Director of Quality Assurance and is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Quality Management System including ISO 9001, APQP, PFMEA and control plans. This role involves monitoring adherence to company policies and ensuring compliance to engineering and quality standards and using problem solving methodologies to lead the team and achieve quality targets. The Quality Manager works closely with various departments, including engineering, operations, service, sales, and parts to ensure efficient warranty processes and exceptional customer satisfaction.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop, implement and continually improve quality policies, procedures that support the QMS.
• Lead the Body Quality Assurance team, including QA Inspection, Paint, Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), Material Review Board (MRB), ISO and GSA/ Master Audit.
• Lead problem-solving efforts within Quality in Station (QIS) related to quality issues, including root cause analysis and corrective action.
• Provide guidance, support and oversight department team members, including performance management and professional development.
• Respond to External and Internal customer complaints putting in containment actions, full analysis, poka-yokes (error proofing), and implementing short-term and long-term countermeasures.
• Analyze internal defect and dealer warranty data to identify trends and opportunities for product and process improvement.
• Oversee quality control process to ensure compliance with quality standards.
• Conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with quality standards and processes.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES FOR SUCCESS

• Computer literate; fully competent in Microsoft Office (Word/Excel/PowerPoint/Access).
• Proven experience in quality management, preferably in a vehicle manufacturing environment.
• Strong organizational, communication and project management skills with ability to interact with all levels of the organization.
• Hands on experience in implementing/ enhancing a Quality Management System (QMS)
• Ability to work independently and be self-motivated.
• Familiarity with bus manufacturing function and technical knowledge of component parts and process.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to lead cross-functional teams and foster a culture of quality throughout the organization.
• Exceptional communication skills (both verbal and written), problem solving and analytical skills.
• Practical experience using Lean Manufacturing principles.

BASIC EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

• Bachelor Degree in Engineering, Quality, Business; Masters preferred
• 10 years relevant experience in quality or manufacturing environment
• Minimum of 3 years supervisory experience with direct reports
• Must have valid driver’s license in good standing and the ability to travel domestically and internationally at short notice
• Must be a citizen of the USA, have a valid work visa, or permanent residence card

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

• Experience with customer feedback and complaint resolution
• Knowledge of various quality system methodologies (8D, 5-Why, Lean, Pareto Analysis, 6-Sigma, PFMEA, Control Plan, PPAP, ISO, etc. preferred)
• GD&T and Gauging Fundamentals
• Six Sigma Black Belt Certificate, preferred.
• ISO Experience; Formal ISO 9001 auditor training highly preferred

WE VALUE

• Ability to anticipate and understand customer needs and provide guidance
• Excellent interpersonal and customer relationship skills to handle difficult and sensitive matters.
• Strong project management skills. Exposure to difficult or complex projects a plus.
• Ability to influence stakeholders
• Effective communication and ability to communicate complex details in a clear manner.
• Flexible workspaces and work hours that help you unleash the best you.
• Working in a collaborative team and balancing the needs of individual stakeholders while delivering corporate objectives.

INCLUDES

• Continued Professional Development
• Benefits including medical, dental and vision insurance, 14 paid holidays, vacation time and 401k with match

• The specific statements shown in each section of this description are not intended to be all-inclusive. They represent typical elements and criteria necessary to successfully perform the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

Blue Bird® is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions on the basis of merit. We strive to have the best available talent in every job based on the Knowledge, Skills and Abilities each person brings. Blue Bird is committed to compliance with all applicable laws providing equal employment opportunities. This commitment applies to all persons involved in Company operations and prohibits unlawful discrimination in all forms.

Candidates for this position must be legally authorized to work in the United States and will be required to provide proof of employment eligibility at the time of hire.

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Experience

• 3 year(s): Supervisory experience with direct reports.
• 10 year(s): Relevant experience in quality or manufacturing environment.

Education

• Bachelors or better in Mechanical Engineering or related field

• Masters or better in Business Administration or related field