OverviewWe are seeking a Quality Leader in the Greater Rockford, IL area with an interest and ability to oversee the full quality function for a multi-site manufacturer in the area. This role is responsible for building a strong quality culture, guiding the business through audits, and ensuring compliance with AS9100 while driving measurable improvements across manufacturing, suppliers, and customer-facing processes.This position has direct leadership responsibility and works closely with Operations, Engineering, Supply Chain, and executive leadership to protect product integrity, customer satisfaction, and business performance.Key ResponsibilitiesOwn and lead the company’s Quality Management System, ensuring full compliance with ISO 9001 and/or AS9100 requirementsAct as the primary Quality Management Representative for audits, including preparation for and leadership of registrar, customer, and internal auditsDevelop and execute quality strategies that reduce defects, improve yields, and support long-term operational excellenceLead, mentor, and manage the Quality team, setting expectations and driving accountabilityEstablish and monitor key quality metrics and KPIs to measure system effectiveness and identify trendsDrive root cause analysis, corrective and preventive actions (CAPA), and continuous improvement initiatives across the organizationPartner with Engineering during product development and process changes to ensure quality requirements are embedded from design through productionBuild and maintain systems for data collection and analysis to proactively identify risks and improvement opportunitiesDefine quality planning methods and standards across all product linesDevelop and support process qualification and certification activitiesQualificationsBachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Manufacturing) preferred.3–5+ years of progressive experience in Quality leadership within a manufacturing environmentStrong working knowledge of ISO 9001 and/or AS9100, corrective action systems, root cause methodologies, and continuous improvement toolsExperience in aerospace or highly regulated manufacturing environments strongly preferredProven ability to lead teams, influence cross-functional partners, and drive cultural changeStrong communication skills with the ability to interface effectively with customers, suppliers, auditors, and executive leadership