Quality Manager - Quality Systems

Description

Who We Are

At nLIGHT, we are constantly extending the cutting-edge of laser technology in multiple dynamic and growing markets. We are a leading provider of high-power semiconductors and fiber lasers for industrial, microfabrication, and aerospace & defense applications, to name a few. Our lasers are changing not only the way things are made, but also changing the things that can be made.

Headquartered in Camas, Washington, nLIGHT is a publicly listed company (NASDAQ: LASR).

Position Summary

The Quality Manager is responsible for the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of the Quality Management System across nLIGHT’s Camas, Vancouver, and Hillsboro operations. This role is responsible for ensuring ISO 9001 compliance; overseeing document, change, deviation, and CAPA processes; supporting internal, supplier, and third-party audits; and driving quality system performance through data analysis, process improvement, and cross-functional collaboration. The position also provides leadership to the quality systems team and serves as a key partner in strengthening business processes, supporting contract manufacturer change management, and maintaining effective quality controls across our U.S. locations.

Essential Functions:

• Leads the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of the Quality Management System (QMS) across Camas, Vancouver, and Hillsboro to ensure ISO 9001 compliance and consistent quality practices.
• Oversees document and change control processes, including DMS, DCR, ECO, PDM, deviations, workflows, approvals, and record accuracy.
• Leads CAPA and audit activities, including review board facilitation, internal and external audit readiness, supplier quality audits, compliance with applicable standards and regulations, and maintenance of quality system records and documentation.
• Provides leadership and supervision to the quality systems team, including performance management, coaching, training, development, recognition, timecard approvals, and regular in-person 1:1 meetings.
• Drives continuous improvement through data analysis, quality metrics, structured problem solving, and methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen, while partnering cross-functionally to strengthen business processes and resolve quality issues.
• Prepares quality performance reports for management and supports contract manufacturer master data and change coordination, including D365 records, drawings, documents, and related updates.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• 5+ years of experience as a Quality Engineer, Quality Manager, Quality Auditor, or in a related field, and a bachelor’s degree in engineering, science, math, statistics, or a related discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience as a supervisor or manager.
• Effective leadership skills and the ability to lead cross-functional teams.
• Experience with the 7 quality tools.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation communication skills, with the ability to communicate clearly and professionally.
• Ability to solve challenging problems while promoting a productive and positive work environment.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office applications.
• Experience auditing manufacturing processes in a production or assembly environment.
• Experience collecting, analyzing, and presenting data to a diverse audience.
• Ability to use sound judgment and discretion and to escalate issues appropriately.
• Strong commitment to quality and continuous improvement.
• Strong analytical and project management skills.
• Strong mathematical and statistical skills.
• Ability to resolve complex issues involving multiple variables in demanding situations.
• Demonstrated ability to protect confidential and proprietary information, exercise discretion, and set professional boundaries.

Physical Requirements:

The essential functions of this role generally require the ability to perform the following job-related activities, with or without reasonable accommodation:

• Remain in a stationary position or move through the work area, production floors, labs, and other company locations for extended periods, as needed to perform inspections, audits, meetings, and other job duties.
• Work in office, manufacturing, laboratory, and clean room environments, using required personal protective equipment and following applicable safety protocols.
• Travel locally between company sites, as needed to support operations, audits, meetings, or other business activities.
• Use a computer and other standard office equipment to review documents, analyze data, prepare reports, and perform other administrative tasks, which may involve repetitive hand movements.
• Move through production and facility areas to observe processes, conduct inspections, and support quality system activities.
• Occasionally move or lift materials, samples, or documents weighing up to 20 pounds.
• Occasionally travel overnight for supplier audits, customer visits, or off-site inspections, which may involve extended driving or air travel.

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

nLIGHT is proud to offer comprehensive COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Salary level is based on experience, education, and skills:

• Quality Manager: $90,000 - $119,000 annually
• Senior Quality Manager: $115,000 - $140,000 annually

Other Compensation and Benefits

• Target Cash Bonus with potential payout of 6% to 8% of your wages, depending on level.
• Eligible for Restricted Stock Unit grants
• 4 weeks of Paid Time Off per year
• 10 paid holidays
• Eligible for health benefits on the first day of the month following the start date
• Medical, dental, and vision benefits, including prescription coverage and orthodontia, with employee-paid premiums as low as $40.00 per pay period
• Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan
• 401(k) with company match and immediate vesting
• Company paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability, and Life & AD&D Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Aflac Supplemental Insurance
• Paid Bereavement Leave and Jury Duty
• Tuition Assistance Program
• Pet Insurance