Quality Assurance/ISO Manager

About the role

The Quality Assurance/ISO Manager at the South Dakota Science and Technology Authority (SDSTA) oversees the development, implementation, and maintenance of quality control and compliance measures to meet International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards and processes through an Integrated Management System (IMS). This role involves leading a team to deliver high-quality services and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain quality control and IMS procedures and processes, and guidelines.
• Conduct thorough inspections and tests to assess products or processes against quality standards.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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 measures are well-documented and executed.
• Submit quality reports to proper authorities as required.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., Quality Management, Compliance, Engineering).
• Experience: A minimum of five (5) years of direct experience in Quality Assurance and/or Quality Control. A minimum of two (2) years of direct experience with either an ISO 9001, 14001 or 45001. Demonstrated experience with ISO system auditing. Demonstrated experience of conducting Management Reviews. Demonstrated experience in maintaining an ISO System. In-depth knowledge of relevant industry standards and quality methodologies. Strong leadership and team management experience. Strong analytical skills and attention to detail. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional environment. Proficient in using quality management software and tools. Experience working in a government-regulated environment (DOE, EPA, etc.) or construction industry, mining, excavation, environmental, safety experience a plus. Experience in use of computer-based tools such as Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, and Excel), maintenance management system development, and use of project scheduling and tracking tools is required.

Competencies, Knowledge & Skills

• Adaptability—Ability to effectively adjust to changing priorities and demands; must be able to work independently to solve problems and keep management informed of progress and status.
• Attention to Detail—Ability to maintain constant awareness of surroundings and ensure tasks are completed carefully and accurately.
• Communication—Communicates effectively and clearly with a wide range of audiences in both written and oral form.
• Decision Making—Ability to assess situations, evaluate options, choose most appropriate course of action, and effectively communicate decisions to staff.
• Influence—Ability to gain acceptance or support for ideas, projects, and solutions.
• Initiative—Persists despite difficult conditions and makes suggestions for improvements.
• Organization—Plans ahead and works in a systematic, organized way.
• Problem-solving—Ability to determine the root-cause of a problem, investigate and analyze complex information and identify, prioritize, and select alternatives for a solution.
• Safety—Ability to learn, understand and comply with SDSTA’s safety requirements. Willing to accept and enforce strict safety practices.

Personal Attributes

• Ethical and responsible mindset.
• Problem-solving orientation.
• Organized and systematic approach to work.
• Able to lead and influence others.
• Strong commitment to delivering high-quality results.

Working Conditions

Perform work in a typical office environment which includes individual workstations, shared workspaces, meeting rooms, and common areas such as a break room and kitchen. The noise level is generally low to moderate, typical of an office setting, with occasional background noise from office equipment and conversations. The office is well-lit with a combination of natural and artificial lighting to ensure a comfortable working environment. The office maintains a controlled temperature environment, with heating and air conditioning systems to ensure comfort throughout the year. Ergonomic office furniture and equipment are provided to support employee health and well-being. The company is committed to providing a safe working environment and adheres to all relevant health and safety regulations. Employees are expected to comply with SDSTA’s ESH Manual safety program. Personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to safety standards protocols are mandatory. Act in accordance with SDSTA’s core values: Safety Focused, Care for Others, Professionalism and Being a Team Player.

Supervisory Duties

Yes
Direct Reports: Quality Control (QC) Technician, ESH/Quality Field Technician
Work Arrangements: On-Site
Hours: M-F; 7AM - 4PM
Travel Required: Infrequent

Mission/Vision/Core Values

• Mission: We advance world-class science and inspire learning across generations.
• Vision: The world’s preferred location for underground science and education.
• Core Values: Safety Focused, Care for Others, Professional, and Being a Team Player.