Quality / Lab Supervisor - 1397

Job Description Job Description Job Description: The Quality / Lab Supervisor plays a critical role in ensuring that all raw materials, in-process goods, and finished products meet internal specifications and customer expectations in a fast-paced, technical textile manufacturing environment. This role oversees day-to-day quality control operations and laboratory testing procedures, provides hands-on leadership to lab technicians and quality inspectors, and ensures compliance with quality standards and industry regulations. This position requires a detail-oriented, proactive leader with strong knowledge of textile testing methods, quality systems, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Key Responsibilities Quality & Inspection Oversight Supervise daily quality control activities, including raw material, in-process, and final product inspections. Ensure accurate execution of inspection protocols, sampling plans, and documentation procedures. Lead root cause analysis (RCA) and corrective/preventive action (CAPA) processes for non-conformances. Laboratory Operations Manage all laboratory testing functions related to textile and composite materials (e.g., tensile strength, flammability, dimensional stability, coating adhesion). Maintain calibration, cleanliness, and functionality of lab equipment and testing devices. Ensure timely and accurate testing results are communicated to production and quality teams. Team Leadership Train, coach, and supervise a team of quality inspectors and lab technicians across multiple shifts. Ensure adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols. Assist in performance evaluations, staffing decisions, and training programs. Documentation & Compliance Maintain test records, inspection logs, certificates of analysis, and quality documentation. Support internal and external audits, including ISO 9001 or customer-specific audits. Help implement and enforce quality management system (QMS) requirements. Continuous Improvement Identify and recommend opportunities for improving quality processes, testing accuracy, and efficiency. Collaborate with production, engineering, and R&D to resolve quality issues and support new product introductions (NPIs). Qualifications Required: ~ Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Textile Engineering, Materials Science, Quality Management, or a related field. ~3+ years of experience in quality or lab supervision in a manufacturing environment (preferably textiles, composites, or technical materials). ~ Strong knowledge of textile testing methods and standards (ASTM, AATCC, ISO, etc.). ~ Familiarity with quality systems, CAPA, RCA, and GMP or ISO 9001 practices. Preferred: Supervisory or team lead experience in a lab or manufacturing setting. Experience with ERP systems and electronic quality management systems (eQMS). Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, or Quality Technician certification (e.g., ASQ CQT). Working Conditions Primarily on-site role within a manufacturing facility, including time on the production floor and in the lab. May require flexible hours to support multi-shift operations. Occasional travel to support supplier visits or customer audits.