Site Quality Manager (NDT Level 3)

Job description

Saronic Technologies is a leader in revolutionizing autonomy at sea, dedicated to developing state-of-the-art solutions that enhance maritime operations through autonomous and intelligent platforms. JOB OVERVIEW Saronic is seeking a highly experienced Quality Manager (NDT Level III) to lead the development and implementation of a comprehensive Quality Management System (QMS) for a new shipbuilding site. This individual will play a critical role in establishing quality standards, inspection frameworks, and process controls across welding, fabrication, and machining operations. The Quality Manager will be responsible for building and leading the site quality organization while partnering closely with operations, engineering, and production teams to ensure adherence to critical quality requirements. This role requires deep expertise in non-destructive testing (NDT), welding inspection, and ISO-based QMS implementation in a manufacturing or shipbuilding environment. RESPONSIBILITIES - QMS Development and Implementation: - Lead the development and deployment of a site-wide Quality Management System from the ground up, aligned with ISO standards (e.g., ISO 9001). - Define quality policies, procedures, work instructions, and documentation systems. - Establish document control, corrective and preventive action (CAPA), and audit processes. - Ensure compliance with regulatory, customer, and internal quality requirements. - Drive continuous improvement initiatives and quality metrics tracking Quality Team Development: - Build and scale a high-performing quality team, including inspectors, NDT technicians, and quality engineers. - Define roles, responsibilities, and competency requirements for all quality personnel. - Develop training programs and certification pathways for NDT and inspection staff. - Mentor and coach team members to ensure technical excellence and career growth Inspection & Process Control (Shipbuilding): - Establish inspection plans and hold points for shipbuilding processes, including welding, fabrication, and machining. - Define critical-to-quality (CTQ) characteristics and acceptance criteria. - Develop and implement inspection and test plans (ITPs) for hull structures, weldments, and machined components. - Ensure proper application of NDT methods (UT, RT, MT, PT, etc.) in accordance with applicable codes and standards. - Oversee weld quality control, including procedure qualification records (PQRs), welding procedure specifications (WPS), and welder qualifications. Cross-Functional Collaboration: - Partner with operations, manufacturing, and engineering teams to integrate quality into production processes. - Identify resource needs (personnel, equipment, tools) required to support quality objectives. - Support design for manufacturability and quality (DFM/DFQ) initiatives. - Participate in production readiness reviews and process validations. - Drive root cause analysis and corrective actions for non-conformances NDT Leadership and Compliance: - Serve as the site NDT Level III authority, responsible for procedure approval and certification oversight. - Develop and maintain NDT procedures in accordance with industry standards (e.g., ASNT, AWS, ASTM). - Ensure proper calibration, qualification, and use of NDT equipment. - Provide technical guidance and audits of NDT activities. Audit & Continuous Improvement: - Lead internal and external audits, including ISO certification audits. - Establish KPIs and dashboards to monitor quality performance. - Implement Lean and Six Sigma principles to reduce defects and improve efficiency. - Drive a culture of quality and accountability across the organization. QUALIFICATIONS - NDT Level III certification (ASNT or equivalent) required. - Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) or equivalent strongly preferred. - Minimum of 5+ years of experience in quality management within shipbuilding, heavy manufacturing, or related industries. - Proven experience developing and implementing Quality Management Systems (QMS), preferably aligned with ISO standards. - Strong knowledge of welding processes, fabrication, machining, and inspection techniques. - Experience defining inspection plans, process controls, and critical quality requirements. - Demonstrated leadership experience building and managing technical teams. - Strong problem-solving, analytical, and root cause analysis skills. - Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration abilities. Preferred Qualifications: - Experience in shipbuilding, maritime, or defense-related manufacturing environments. - Familiarity with naval or marine classification standards (e.g., ABS, DNV). - Prior experience standing up a new facility or greenfield operation. BENEFITS Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of services Saronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents Dental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision care Saronic pays 100% of the premium under the basic plan for employees and 80% for dependents Time Off: Generous PTO and Holidays Parental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parents Competitive Salary: Industry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonuses Retirement Plan: 401(k) plan with company match Stock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the company’s success Life and Disability Insurance: Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage Pet Insurance: Discounted pet insurance options including 24/7 Telehealth helpline Additional Perks: Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office Saronic CCPA Notice for Candidates and California Employees https://saronic-assets-public.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/Saronic%20CCPA%20Notice%20for%20Candidates%20and%20California%20Employees.pdf If this role is based in the United States, it requires access to export-controlled information or items that require “U.S. Person” status. As defined by U.S. law, individuals who are any one of the following are considered to be a “U.S. Person”: (1) U.S. citizens, (2) legal permanent residents (a.k.a. green card holders), and (3) certain protected classes of asylees and refugees, as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) https://www.govinfo.gov/link/uscode/8/1324b. Saronic does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, age, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other reason prohibited by law in provision of employment opportunities and benefits. We are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.