Quality Specialist

The Quality Specialist is responsible for supporting the development, execution, and continuous improvement of quality systems within a packaging manufacturing environment. This role applies technical quality knowledge to inspect incoming materials, in-process production, and finished goods, ensuring conformance to customer specifications, AQL standards, and applicable regulatory requirements. The Quality Specialist partners closely with operations, suppliers, and customers to resolve quality issues and drive sustainable process improvements.Key ResponsibilitiesQuality Control & InspectionPerform incoming, in-process, and final inspections on packaging materials and finished goods in accordance with AQL sampling plans.Review product specifications, drawings, and customer requirements to develop and maintain inspection criteria and control plans.Identify, document, and disposition nonconforming materials using established NCR processes.Maintain calibration records for equipment and gauges.Root Cause Analysis & Corrective ActionsLead root cause analysis (RCA) investigations using structured tools such as 5 Why, Fishbone/Ishikawa, and FMEA.Initiate, track, and close corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs) in response to internal defects, customer complaints, and audit findings.Respond to Supplier Corrective Action Requests (SCARs) and customer quality notifications in a timely manner.Verify effectiveness of corrective actions through follow-up inspections and data analysis.Packaging Compliance & StandardsEnsure packaging designs and materials comply with applicable industry standards, customer-specific requirements, and regulatory guidelines including hazmat packaging regulations where applicable.Support validation and qualification of new packaging materials, suppliers, and processes.Review and update quality documentation including SOPs, work instructions, inspection checklists, and control plans.Participate in packaging design reviews to assess quality risk and buildability.Data Analysis & Continuous ImprovementCollect and analyze quality data (defect rates, scrap, rework, customer returns) to identify trends and drive improvement actions.Support Lean manufacturing and waste reduction initiatives on the production floor.Participate in or facilitate Kaizen events and process improvement projects.Contribute to quality KPI reporting and present findings to operations and management teams.Customer & Supplier CollaborationSupport customer quality audits and respond to quality-related inquiries with clear, data-driven communication.Collaborate with procurement and supplier development teams to monitor and improve supplier quality performance.Assist in the evaluation and approval of new suppliers through qualification audits and sample reviews.Qualifications:EducationAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in Quality, Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, or a related field preferred.ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) or Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) is a plus.Experience2–5 years of quality engineering or quality control experience in a packaging, manufacturing, or logistics environment.Hands-on experience with AQL inspection methods and sampling plans.Familiarity with packaging materials and processes (corrugated, foam, labels, custom industrial packaging).Experience with ISO 9001 quality management systems preferred.Knowledge of hazmat packaging regulations (ISTA, ASTM, DOT/IATA) is a plus.Skills & CompetenciesProficient in quality tools: 5 Why, Fishbone, FMEA, Control Plans, and AQL sampling standards.Strong attention to detail with the ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.Analytical mindset with experience using data to support decision making.Effective written and verbal communication skills, including customer-facing interactions.Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint); familiarity with quality management software a plus.Ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional, fast-paced environment.Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)Internal defect and scrap rateCAPA closure time and effectiveness rateCustomer complaint and return rateFirst-pass inspection yieldAudit findings (internal and external)Supplier quality scorecard performanceWork EnvironmentCombination of office and production/warehouse floor environment.Frequent time on the production floor; appropriate PPE required in designated areas.May require occasional travel for customer audits, supplier visits, or multi-site support.