Quality Assurance/ISO Manager

The South Dakota Science and Technology Authority (SDSTA) owns and operates the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF). The Quality Assurance/ISO Manager is a pivotal role that combines expertise in quality control and compliance with the ability to lead and guide a team. This role involves developing, implementing, and maintaining quality control and compliance measures to meet International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards and processes through an Integrated Management System (IMS), delivering high-quality services to customers, and overseeing and mentoring a team of professionals in achieving these objectives. The manager will collaborate cross-functionally, drive continuous improvement, mitigate risks, and maintain a culture of quality and compliance throughout the organization. This position will uphold the organization's commitment to delivering high-quality services while adhering to IMS. The role requires a combination of technical expertise, leadership skills, and the ability to drive quality and compliance excellence across the organization.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

The following reflects SDSTA’s definition of essential functions for this position and does not restrict other tasks that may be assigned. SDSTA retains the right to re-evaluate the duties of the position when considering a reasonable accommodation or at other appropriate times. The essential functions include, but are not limited to, the following:

Quality Control

• Develop, implement, and maintain a robust quality control and IMS procedures and processes, and guidelines.
• Conduct thorough inspections and tests to assess product or process to quality standard.
• Monitor, analyze, and interpret quality performance metrics to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Investigate and resolve quality-related nonconformances.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to ensure consistent adherence to organization quality standards and compliance standards requirements.

Compliance Management

• Stay updated on evolving, compliance standards and best practices.
• Develop, implement, and maintain compliance programs, policies, and procedures, keeping the team informed and aligned.
• Lead compliance assessments and audits, as required.
• Collaborate with regulatory agencies and support the team in ensuring compliance.

Documentation and Reporting

• Oversee the maintenance of accurate and up-to-date controlled documentation related to quality and compliance standards.
• Review and approve comprehensive reports on quality and compliance for management review.
• Ensure that nonconformances, corrective actions, and continuous improvement measure are well-documented and executed.
• Submit quality reports to proper authorities as required.

Training and Education

• Develop and deliver training programs to educate employees on quality and compliance standards.
• Foster a culture of quality awareness and compliance consciousness across the organization.
• Provide guidance to teams on proper procedures and practices to maintain quality and compliance.

Strategic Initiatives and Continuous Improvement

• Lead strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing quality and compliance processes across the organization.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify root causes of quality issues and drive effective corrective and continuous improvement actions.
• Analyze data trends to identify opportunities for process optimization and improved efficiency.

Risk and Opportunity Management

• Identify potential risks and opportunities to quality and compliance standards and develop strategies to mitigate or implement them.
• Participate in risk assessment activities and contribute to risk and opportunity management plans.

Leadership and Team Management

• Lead a team of quality control and compliance professionals, providing guidance, mentorship, and coaching.
• Set clear performance expectations and objectives for team members and provide regular feedback.
• Foster a collaborative and empowering work environment that encourages innovation and growth.
• Delegate responsibilities effectively and ensure efficient workflow within the team.
• Conduct performance evaluations, identify training needs, and facilitate professional development opportunities.

Other Essential Functions

• Maintains consistent and reliable attendance.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.