General Assembly Quality Operations Manager

Here at Scout Motors, we're carrying forward the heritage of one of the most iconic American vehicles in history. A vehicle dating back to 1960. One that forged the path for future generations of rugged SUVs and trucks and will do so once again.

But Scout is more than just a brand, it’s a legacy steeped in a culture of exploration, caretaking, and hard work.

The Scout brand is all about respect. Respect for the past and the future by taking an iconic American brand that hasn’t been around for a while, electrifying it, digitizing it, and loading it with American innovation. Respect for communities by creating a company that stands for its people and its customers. Respect for both work and play, with vehicles that are equally at home at a camp site, a job site, or on a Tuesday commute. And respect for our customers by developing two powertrains that meet their requirements — an all-electric powertrain as well as the Harvester™ range extender powertrain which includes a built-in gas-powered generator with an estimated 500 miles of combined range.

At Scout Motors, we empower our talented, inclusive, and entrepreneurial teams to innovate. What makes a Scout employee? Someone who is a visionary and a leader, who seeks new paths and shares lessons learned. A knowledgeable doer who collaborates across the company to build better. A go-getter with unrivaled passion.

Join us at Scout Motors and be part of shaping the future of transportation. If you're ready to drive change and make history, apply now!

What you’ll do

The General Assembly Quality Manager is responsible for overseeing Scout’s Production Quality Operations process to ensure that all products meet the required quality standards and are produced efficiently. This role involves managing the quality control team in the General Assembly Shop implementing quality control measures and working closely with the production team to optimize processes, reduce waste, and improve overall product quality.

Become part of an iconic brand that is set to revolutionize the electric pick-up truck & rugged SUV marketplace by achieving the following:

Quality Control Management:

• Develop, implement, and manage quality control systems to ensure that all products meet or exceed customer expectations in Quality Center.

• Manage and guide quality control inspectors and technicians in performing routine inspections, testing, and audits of raw materials, in-process products, and finished goods.

• Analyze quality control data and generate reports to identify trends, potential issues, and areas for improvement.

Process Improvement:

• Collaborate with the production team to identify and implement process improvements that enhance product quality, reduce waste, and increase efficiency.

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on improving production processes, reducing defects, and ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.

Compliance and Documentation:

• Ensure that all production processes comply with relevant quality standards, industry regulations, and safety guidelines.

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation related to quality control activities, including inspection records, test results, and corrective actions.

Team Leadership:

• Foster a collaborative and results-driven team culture, ensuring effective communication and knowledge sharing within the team.

• Manage, train, and develop the quality control team, fostering a culture of quality, accountability, and continuous improvement.

• Conduct performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback to team members to enhance their skills and performance.

Customer Satisfaction:

• Work closely with the production, logistic, engineering, planning, maintenance, among other teams to address customer complaints and quality issues, ensuring timely and effective resolution.

• Collaborate with the production and engineering teams to develop and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) to address recurring quality issues.

Reporting and Analysis:

• Prepare and present regular quality reports to senior management, highlighting key performance indicators (KPIs), quality trends, and improvement initiatives.

• Use data-driven analysis to drive decision-making and implement corrective actions.

Location & Travel Expectations:

• This role will be based out of the Scout Motors location in Columbia, South Carolina.

• This role requires 4-5 days per week in the office, with regular in-person meetings and events.

• Applicants should expect that the role will require the ability to convene with Scout colleagues in person and travel to participate in events on behalf of the company from time to time.

What you’ll bring

We expect all Scout employees to have integrity, curiosity, resourcefulness, and strive to exhibit a positive attitude, as well as a growth mindset. You’ll be comfortable with change and flexible in a fast-paced, high-growth environment. You’ll take a collaborative approach to achieve ambitious goals. Here's what else you'll bring:

• Education/Certifications: A Bachelor’s degree in automotive technology, engineering, Manufacturing, Quality Management, or a related field preferred.

• Years of Experience required in type of role: 7+ years of professional experience in automotive production in a similar role and quality control concepts or a related field, including hands-on experience with general assembly products and processes. Proven experience with VDA standards is essential. 

• Communication: Strong and effective written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.

• Excellent leadership and team management skills.

• Desired experience on launching Greenfield or Brownfield plant.  

• In-depth knowledge of automotive processes, products, and materials, including familiarity with assembly tools, equipment, and best practices in the general assembly processes. 

• Proficiency in quality control software and Microsoft Office Suite.

• Strong understanding of VDA and QMS standards and their application in the automotive industry. 

• Strong understanding of process auditing techniques and methodologies. 

• Excellent writing skills for developing clear and comprehensive quality standards and procedures. 

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills. 

• Proven experience in process improvement, lean manufacturing, or Six Sigma methodologies.

• Attention to detail and organizational skills. 

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills. 

• Strong self-responsibility, planning, and organizational skills, able to perform multi-tasks within set time frames, and strong time management and organizational skills. 

• Hands-on experience with electrical systems and mechanical assembly techniques. 

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and quality management software. 

• Production standard understanding and derivation of the effects on processes, equipment and product. 

• Skills in web-based applications 

• Customer-orientated skills, as well as attention to detail and commitment to quality. 

• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and work environments. 

• Commitment to continuous improvement and professional development. 

• An ability to solve problems in manufacturing problems in general assembly shops and other areas in the plant 

• Ability to work effectively as a team member to solve problems or independently as a free thinker to improve quality.   

Working Conditions:

• This position may require working in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, heat, and other conditions typical of a production facility.

• Some travel may be required to visit suppliers, customers, or other company facilities.

What you'll gain

The benefits of joining Scout include the chance to build products and a company from the ground up. This is a chance to create something new and lasting – with an iconic brand at its foundation. In addition, Scout provides competitive compensation and benefits to support your physical, mental, and financial wellbeing. Program specifics are detailed in company policies and employee benefit guides, select highlights:

• Competitive insurance including:

• Medical, dental, vision and income protection plans

• 401(k) program with:

• An employer match and immediate vesting

• Generous Paid Time Off including:

• 20 days planned PTO, as accrued

• 40 hours of unplanned PTO and 14 company or floating holidays, annually

• Up to 16 weeks of paid parental leave for biological and adoptive parents of all genders

• Paid leave for circumstances related to bereavement, jury duty, voting time, or military leave

• Corporate Vehicle Program with:

• Eligibility for 1 assigned vehicle

• A mobility stipend

Pay Transparency

This is a full-time, exempt position eligible to receive a base salary and to participate in an annual performance bonus program. Final salary offered will be determined based on factors including but not limited to the candidate's skills and experience. The annual performance bonus program is preset and not candidate dependent.

Initial Base Salary Range: $120,000.00 - $145,000.00

Internal Leveling Code: M8

Notice to applicants:

• To be considered for career opportunities at Scout Motors, applicants must be 18 years of age or older.

• Residing in San Francisco: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Scout Motors will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

• Residing in Los Angeles: Scout Motors will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.

• Residing in New York City: This role is not eligible for remote work in New York City.

Equal Opportunity

Scout Motors is committed to employing a diverse workforce and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, disability, pregnancy, or any other characteristics protected by law. Scout Motors is committed to compliance with all applicable fair employment practice laws. If you require reasonable accommodation to complete a job application, pre-employment testing, or a job interview or to otherwise participate in the hiring process, please contact ScoutAccommodations@scoutmotors.com.