Sr. Manufacturing Quality Assurance Engineer
Leatherman Tools - Portland, OR
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Position Summary - Sr. Manufacturing Quality Assurance Engineer (On-site, Portland, Oregon) The Sr. Manufacturing Quality Assurance Engineer is responsible for driving product and process quality across the supply chain by applying a robust Quality Management System (QMS), data-driven analysis, and standardized reporting. This role partners closely with Manufacturing, Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, and Suppliers to manage risk, improve performance, and deliver continuous improvement in a high-volume manufacturing environment. Lead the strategy, selection, and deployment of AI-enabled quality solutions, leveraging advanced analytics and machine learning to drive continuous improvement. Act as a strong practitioner of AI and automation tools (e.g. ChatGPT, Claude, or Power Platform), championing a culture of data-driven decision-making across quality systems. This position provides quality engineering leadership across supplier quality, new product introduction (NPI), equipment qualification, metrology strategy, and process capability to ensure consistent delivery of high-quality products. Key Responsibilities Manufacturing & Process Quality Owns complex quality challenges and leads cross-functional resolution efforts. Serves as a subject matter expert in SPC, metrology, and QMS application. Influences quality strategy and mentors QA Technicians and junior engineers. Drives plant-wide or multi-site quality improvements. Establish and manage plant-wide standards for Statistical Process Control (SPC), including control limits, capability reporting, and inspection records. Advise QA Technicians and manufacturing teams on appropriate SPC techniques for specific processes and work cells. Monitor manufacturing processes and lead actions to improve process capability and stability. Design and implement inspection strategies and control plans for legacy and new products. Lead the strategy, selection, and deployment of AI-enabled quality solutions, leveraging advanced analytics and machine learning to drive continuous improvement. Act as a strong practitioner of AI and automation tools (e.g. ChatGPT, Claude, or Power Platform), championing a culture of data-driven decision-making across quality systems. Metrology & Measurement Systems Define metrology strategies to meet GR&R requirements. Design custom gages and fixtures to support manufacturing needs. Identify and implement new metrology technologies to support evolving manufacturing processes. Utilize advanced dimensional measurement techniques including CMM, vision systems, optical comparators, and manual inspection tools. Supplier Quality & Supply Chain Lead or support supplier qualification activities, including onsite supplier system audits. Support supplier quality reporting and corrective action activities. Partner with Supply Chain and Engineering to ensure supplier capability and compliance. New Product & Equipment Introduction Support New Product Introduction (NPI) through metrology strategy, control plans, document release tracking, and supplier qualification. Lead or support new equipment qualification, including runoff criteria development, inspection method validation, and onsite runoff acceptance at equipment manufacturers. Develop Acceptance Test Plans aligned with organizational quality standards. Quality Management System & Continuous Improvement Define, implement, and improve QMS processes through creation and revision of controlled procedures and work instructions. Lead and participate in CAPA initiatives using structured problem-solving methodologies (DMAIC, A3, 5 Whys, Fishbone). Drive continuous improvement initiatives to reduce variation, scrap, rework, and quality risk. Cross-Functional Collaboration & Communication Partner cross-functionally to align quality strategies with business objectives. Communicate complex quality concepts clearly to production teams, engineers, and senior leadership. Support audits and regulatory compliance activities as required. Hazardous Waste & Safety Responsibilities Comply with all company procedures and applicable federal, state (Oregon DEQ), and local regulations regarding hazardous materials and waste. Properly handle, label, store, and dispose of hazardous waste materials. Use required personal protective equipment (PPE). Report spills, unsafe conditions, or incidents to EHS immediately. Participate in required safety and hazardous waste training. Competencies Resilient and adaptable in challenging manufacturing environments. Strong collaborator and relationship builder. Clear, confident communicator across all organizational levels. Customer- and results-focused. Courageous in addressing quality risks and issues. Accountable, trustworthy, and resourceful. Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Tech-savvy with a continuous improvement mindset. Education & Experience Required Bachelor’s degree in Industrial, Manufacturing, or related Engineering discipline. 10+ years of experience (or 5+ years with a Master’s degree). Demonstrated leadership in quality engineering and continuous improvement. Strong analytical, statistical, and critical thinking skills. Ability to interpret 2D prints and 3D models using GD&T standards. Experience applying SPC, process capability analysis, and root cause methodologies. Experience in high-volume manufacturing environments. Additional Preferred Qualifications ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE). Lean / Six Sigma certification. Experience with advanced metrology systems and custom gage design. Strong presentation and executive communication skills. Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
Created: 2026-03-04