CMA Quality Program Specialist

Description

About IALR
The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) serves as a regional catalyst for economic transformation. The mission will be accomplished through applied research, advanced learning, economic development, advanced manufacturing, and conference services. Driving Economic Transformation is at the heart of everything we do at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research. We discover breakthroughs, create opportunity, grow innovation, power progress, and host greatness. Each of our divisions plays a critical role in daily preserving and delivering this mission.

About the Role
The Quality Program Specialist at IALR is responsible for overseeing the Quality Management System (QMS), including the Quality Program, procedures, and supporting documentation, while fulfilling the role of Quality Manager within the program’s scope. Reporting directly to the Operations Manager, this position is accountable for managing all quality functions within the Center for Manufacturing Advancement (CMA). 

This role supports CMA leadership in driving continuous improvement efforts to meet both the CMA Quality objectives and the broader goals of the QMS. The Quality Program Specialist is expected to demonstrate flexibility and a collaborative mindset, assisting with additional tasks as needed to support the organization and contribute to the overall success of the CMA.

Duties may include, but are not limited to:

• Oversee the direction and management of the Quality Program to ensure compliance with ISO standards and other relevant standards applicable to IALR's work scopes.
• Manage the control, maintenance, and accuracy of Quality Records, Manuals, and Procedures.
• Oversee the qualification, evaluation, and control of IALR suppliers providing quality items and services.
• Coordinate quality activities with operational functions to ensure timely completion and proper documentation of work in alignment with the Quality Management System (QMS) requirements.
• Develop, deliver, and manage quality-related training for the organization.
• Plan, schedule, and conduct internal audits, as well as external supplier audits and evaluations.
• Organize and facilitate Management Review meetings, ensuring alignment with quality objectives.
• Ensure the ongoing maintenance and currency of IALR's ISO certification.

Work Location
We are looking for staff to work onsite in Danville, VA.   

The Ideal Candidate
•    Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent work experience) preferred.
•    5 years of experience in quality management within a manufacturing environment.
•    5 years of experience planning and conducting internal audits
•    Proven experience in developing and managing Quality Management Systems (QMS), including ISO 9001 or similar standards.
•    Experience working with external clients or stakeholders to ensure product and service quality.

Additional Expectations, Skills, and Qualifications:

•    Knowledge of the ISO Standard and other standards applicable to work scopes
•    Safety and Quality conscious, orientated to excellence
•    Problem-solving skills
•    Strong leadership, interpersonal and communication skills
•    Ability to interpret and understand technical and design documents
•    Knowledge of computer use and programs (Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, Project, and Power Point, etc.)
•    Compliance with state and federal laws and company policies and guidelines 
•    Ability lead and direct quality personnel. 

Essential Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting and working at a desk using a computer for documentation, audits, and reporting.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
• Frequent standing and walking within office areas and operational spaces, such as labs or manufacturing areas, during audits and inspections.
• Ability to bend, stoop, and reach when accessing files, equipment, or documentation storage.
• Visual acuity for detailed document review, data analysis, and quality inspections.
• Manual dexterity for handling documents, using quality measurement tools, and data entry.
• Clear and effective verbal and written communication for conducting training, leading audits, and reporting findings.
• Ability to travel occasionally for external supplier audits and evaluations, with the ability to drive or use other forms of transportation as needed.

Salary & Benefits
IALR will offer a salary of $90,000 - $100,000 plus applicable shift differential. IALR offers unique career opportunities in an innovative environment, all to support the economic transformation of Southern Virginia. Eligible employees are afforded excellent medical, dental, and vision coverage with lower-than-expected costs and participate in the Virginia Retirement System to save for their future.

How to Apply
Apply online at www.ialr.org/employment. Interviews will begin as qualified applicants are identified.

Salary : $90,000 - $100,000