Job Title :Quality Specialist.

Location : Windom, MN

Pay (Based on experience) + Benefits.

Job Description:

• Quality Specialist will support the Paint and Weld Departments by identifying, investigating, and resolving quality issues that impact production flow, throughput, and customer satisfaction.
• This role focuses on troubleshooting defects, driving root cause analysis, and implementing corrective actions while partnering closely with Quality, Fabrication, and Production teams.
• The specialist will work hands-on at the line, follow defects through the manufacturing process, and help strengthen overall process stability and material flow.

Responsibilities:

Quality Troubleshooting & Defect Investigation

• Inspect rejected parts lineside in Paint and Weld departments
• Identify defects related to paint, weld, packaging, and handling
• Follow defective parts backward through the process to determine origin of issue
• Monitor defect trends and communicate findings to supervisors and quality leadership

Root Cause & Corrective Action

• Lead and support structured problem-solving activities (5 Why, Fishbone, etc.)
• Develop and document root cause analysis
• Initiate and track corrective and preventive actions
• Verify effectiveness of corrective actions through follow-up audits

Production & Process Support

• Work directly with Fabrication Production Team to address weld and handling issues
• Support troubleshooting of material flow disruptions
• Assist with rework processes to improve throughput and minimize impact to production
• Collaborate with Quality Department to ensure alignment with acceptance criteria

Communication & Collaboration

• Provide real-time feedback to supervisors and production leads
• Escalate recurring or high-volume defects appropriately
• Participate in cross-functional meetings as needed
• Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement

Requirements:

• Experience in manufacturing quality, preferably in paint, weld, or fabrication environments
• Strong understanding of defect classification and quality standards
• Experience with root cause analysis and corrective action processes
• Ability to read prints and understand weld/paint specifications
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced production environment

Preferred:

• Experience with structured problem-solving tools (5 Why, Fishbone, 8D)
• Familiarity with manufacturing KPIs such as defect rate, first pass yield, and DPU
• Previous experience in a cross-functional manufacturing support role