Quality Lab Manager

We are seeking an experienced Laboratory Manager to oversee laboratory testing, metrology, calibration, and quality compliance activities within an automotive manufacturing environment. This position will lead a small team of lab technicians while ensuring accurate testing, reliable measurement systems, and compliance with automotive industry standards.The ideal candidate will have a strong background in metrology, dimensional inspection, GD&T, automotive quality systems, and laboratory operations, along with proven leadership and problem-solving skills.Key Responsibilities:Laboratory Management & TestingManage daily laboratory operations, testing schedules, equipment utilization, and resource allocation.Lead, train, and develop a team of approximately four laboratory technicians.Oversee automotive glass homologation testing to ensure compliance with FMVSS 205, ANSI Z26.1, ECE R43, CCC (GB9656), CMVSS 205, and customer-specific requirements.Maintain laboratory safety standards, SOPs, and 5S practices.Metrology & CalibrationOversee calibration and maintenance of gauges, measurement instruments, and laboratory equipment using Gage Trak.Coordinate third-party calibrations, equipment repairs, and new gauge purchases.Manage dimensional inspections using CMMs, scanners, PC-DMIS, PolyWorks, and other measurement systems.Interpret engineering drawings and GD&T requirements to verify product and gauge compliance.Support gauge design, development, and validation, including 3D printing when applicable.Quality Systems & Data AnalysisConduct Measurement System Analyses (MSA), capability studies, and statistical analysis using Minitab and Excel.Support PPAP submissions, annual layouts, 8D investigations, and customer-specific testing requirements.Maintain accurate testing records, calibration documentation, and quality reports.Support ISO 9001, IATF 16949, regulatory, and customer audits.Collaborate with Quality, Engineering, and Production teams to resolve measurement and product quality concerns.Continuous ImprovementApply Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to improve laboratory efficiency, testing accuracy, and process consistency.Identify opportunities to reduce measurement variation and improve equipment reliability.Assist in developing and updating testing procedures, work instructions, and quality documentation.Required Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, or a related technical fieldExperience in a manufacturing laboratory, metrology, or quality testing environment.Strong knowledge of CMM operations, dimensional inspection, and GD&T.Experience with PC-DMIS, PolyWorks, Gage Trak, Minitab, and Microsoft Excel.Understanding of automotive quality standards, including ISO 9001 and IATF 16949.Familiarity with PPAP, APQP, SPC, FMEA, MSA, and capability studies.Knowledge of automotive glass testing and regulatory requirements.Strong organizational, analytical, communication, and leadership skills.Ability to manage multiple priorities and collaborate across departments.Preferred Qualifications:Previous laboratory management or supervisory experience within a Tier 1 automotive manufacturing environment.CMM operator or other metrology-related certification.Six Sigma Black Belt, ASQ CQE, CQM, or similar quality certification.ISO 9001 or IATF 16949 internal auditor certification.Experience with SolidWorks or other 3D CAD software for gauge design and validation.Experience developing laboratory test methods and improving measurement systems.