Site Quality Manager (NDT Level 3)

Saronic Technologies is a leader in revolutionizing autonomy at sea, dedicated to developing state-of-the-art solutions that enhance maritime operations through autonomous and intelligent platforms. JOB OVERVIEW Saronic is seeking a highly experienced Quality Manager (NDT Level III) to lead the development and implementation of a comprehensive Quality Management System (QMS) for a new shipbuilding site. This individual will play a critical role in establishing quality standards, inspection frameworks, and process controls across welding, fabrication, and machining operations. The Quality Manager will be responsible for building and leading the site quality organization while partnering closely with operations, engineering, and production teams to ensure adherence to critical quality requirements. This role requires deep expertise in non-destructive testing (NDT), welding inspection, and ISO-based QMS implementation in a manufacturing or shipbuilding environment. RESPONSIBILITIES - QMS Development and Implementation: - Lead the development and deployment of a site-wide Quality Management System from the ground up, aligned with ISO standards (e.g., ISO 9001). - Define quality policies, procedures, work instructions, and documentation systems. - Establish document control, corrective and preventive action (CAPA), and audit processes. - Ensure compliance with regulatory, customer, and internal quality requirements. - Drive continuous improvement initiatives and quality metrics tracking Quality Team Development: - Build and scale a high-performing quality team, including inspectors, NDT technicians, and quality engineers. - Define roles, responsibilities, and competency requirements for all quality personnel. - Develop training programs and certification pathways for NDT and inspection staff. - Mentor and coach team members to ensure technical excellence and career growth Inspection & Process Control (Shipbuilding): - Establish inspection plans and hold points for shipbuilding processes, including welding, fabrication, and machining. - Define critical-to-quality (CTQ) characteristics and acceptance criteria. - Develop and implement inspection and test plans (ITPs) for hull structures, weldments, and machined components. - Ensure proper application of NDT methods (UT, RT, MT, PT, etc.) in accordance with applicable codes and standards. - Oversee weld quality control, including procedure qualification records (PQRs), welding procedure specifications (WPS), and welder qualifications. Cross-Functional Collaboration: - Partner with operations, manufacturing, and engineering teams to integrate quality into production processes. - Identify resource needs (personnel, equipment, tools) required to support quality objectives. - Support design for manufacturability and quality (DFM/DFQ) initiatives. - Participate in production readiness reviews and process validations. - Drive root cause analysis and corrective actions for non-conformances NDT Leadership and Compliance: - Serve as the site NDT Level III authority, responsible for procedure approval and certification oversight. - Develop and maintain NDT procedures in accordance with industry standards (e.g., ASNT, AWS, ASTM). - Ensure proper calibration, qualification, and use of NDT equipment. - Provide technical guidance and audits of NDT activities. Audit & Continuous Improvement: - Lead internal and external audits, including ISO certification audits. - Establish KPIs and dashboards to monitor quality performance. - Implement Lean and Six Sigma principles to reduce defects and improve efficiency. - Drive a culture of quality and accountability across the organization. QUALIFICATIONS - NDT Level III certification (ASNT or equivalent) required. - Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) or equivalent strongly preferred. - Minimum of 5+ years of experience in quality management within shipbuilding, heavy manufacturing, or related industries. - Proven experience developing and implementing Quality M