Technical and Quality Director

About the Role

Lead the Process Engineering, Conversion / Quality Assurance Engineering, Quality Control Engineering, and Quality Lab groups. Provide strategic direction to maintain and improve SMC’s technology base, enhance product quality, drive process control, and deliver technical customer support. Oversee quality management systems, including QA, contract review, certifications, specifications, NDT administration, records, audits, and corrective actions for the New Hartford and Dunkirk facilities.

Responsibilities

• Manage technical resources to align with SMC’s strategic needs.
• Direct investigations for claims and customer complaints.
• Provide technical leadership to support and improve primary (VIM), secondary melting (VAR and ESR), and Dunkirk conversion operations.
• Oversee raw material purchasing activities.
• Serve as Management Representative to establish a strong internal and external quality image.
• Define and establish monitoring and control systems (e.g., SPC) for key process parameters.
• Develop and execute a Quality Assurance program, ensuring best practices are followed.
• Lead technical evaluations and projects to improve process control, product quality, yields, and cost reduction.
• Monitor and report key metrics for weekly, monthly, and quarterly business reviews.
• Manage budgetary responsibilities for Process, Quality Assurance Engineering, and Lab functions.
• Develop human capital for Process and Quality Assurance Engineering teams.
• Recommend and justify capital expenditures to improve business operations.
• Provide technical support to Sales for contract and specification review.
• Represent SMC in industry organizations or seminars to advance product and process innovation.
• Conduct customer visits as required.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering (Metallurgical Engineering or Material Science preferred).
• Advanced degree (MS or PhD) is a plus.
• At least 10 years of experience in technical management of product processes and applications in the nickel or other metals industry.
• Minimum five years of experience in the aerospace industry, including supervisory or managerial responsibilities.
• Strong technical and/or Quality engineering background.

Skills

• High-temperature nickel-base superalloy melting or conversion experience is a plus.
• Knowledge of AS9100.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Proficiency in database manipulation, data analysis, and documentation.
• Technical competence and ability to troubleshoot customer concerns.
• Strong understanding of products and processes.
• Ability to present to senior leadership.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

Physical Demands: Sufficient mobility and dexterity for shop floor observation and interactions.

Work Environment: Office and shop floor settings.