Job Details

Pre-Shipment Inspection Quality Manager

Illuminate USA, located in the heart of Central Ohio, is transforming solar panel manufacturing from our cutting-edge facility in Pataskala. As a new standalone joint venture established by two global leaders in renewable energy, we've rapidly grown to over 1,600 associates and are now fully operational in our 1.1 million-square-foot factory. Our vision is to establish one of the largest solar panel manufacturing operations in the Western Hemisphere.

This is an exciting time to join Illuminate USA as we continue to grow and innovate. We're not just building solar panels, we're building a team of dedicated, passionate associates eager to make a real impact. If you're looking to be part of a collaborative, people-focused, and forward-thinking workplace, we want to hear from you!

We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and continuous opportunities for career growth. Come join us on this journey to create a brighter, more sustainable future in the Columbus area.

Job Summary:

Reports to: Customer Quality Operations Manager

We are seeking a Pre-Shipment Inspection Quality Manager to manage In-Process Monitoring (IPM) Audits and Pre-shipment Inspection (PSI) quality programs. This person will lead a team of Customer Quality Specialists and Quality Operators working with customers and third-party auditors to effectively manage inspection protocols required by our customers. The ideal candidate should be strong in inspection and in-line audit protocols, quality defect criteria, visual inspection and testing.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead and oversee customer quality inspection processes (e.g., In-Process Monitoring and Pre-Shipment Inspection, etc.), ensuring compliance with established quality standards and requirements.
• Communicate with project customers, partner with third-party auditors and align on inspection schedule, sampling protocols, auditor schedule and priorities to achieve timely execution of testing and release of quality reports.
• Prepare daily and weekly work schedule of specialists and operators to ensure availability of quality personnel during line audits and pre-shipment testing and inspection; prepare periodic summary reports for quality data.
• Liaise with Reliability Engineering for laboratory testing required by customers.
• Understand quality criteria per project and conduct technical discussions and agreements with auditors to facilitate timely approval of shipments.
• Drive reduction of In-Process Monitoring and Pre-Shipment inspection defects and execute internal investigations of customer complaints by gathering relevant data, conducting root cause analysis, and collaborating with cross-functional teams (Process Engineering, Process Quality Engineering, Equipment Engineering and Production) to identify underlying issues. Prepare detailed 8D reports to document findings, outline corrective actions, and develop strategies to prevent recurrence. Track the implementation of improvements and continuously monitor results to ensure sustained customer satisfaction and long-term quality enhancements.
• Prioritize customer satisfaction by providing clear communication, following up as necessary, and taking proactive steps to prevent recurring issues, while maintaining a focus on maintaining high-quality standards.
• Plan for and manage resources for the whole team to ensure efficient operations and technical development. Perform other tasks/duties as necessary.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Science with 8+ year's experience in one or more of the following industries: solar manufacturing; electronics, semiconductor or automotive manufacturing; solar construction.
• Minimum 5+ year's experience in a Customer Quality function. Hands-on and solid experience in inspection, testing and quality investigations is required.
• Experienced in systematic problem-solving via 8D Process, Six Sigma or other root cause analysis methods.
• Adept in reading product design/drawings, bill of materials and material specifications; knowledgeable in IEC 61215 and UL 61730 test requirements.
• Has undergone specialized training in customer quality management and equipped with skills to ensure high standards of customer satisfaction and product quality.
• Strong communication skills to clearly convey information, engage with stakeholders, and adapt messaging to suit different audiences.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally with short notice (up to 20%).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Engineering or Science (Chemistry and Physics)
• Familiar with electroluminescence, photoluminescence, automated optical inspection, electronic product testing or similar test technologies preferred.
• Experienced in In-Process Monitoring and Pre-Shipment Inspection protocols for utility-scale solar quality programs.
• Fluent in written and verbal communication in both Mandarin and English.
• Intensive experience in statistical process control and analysis using statistical software (e.g., JMP and Minitab).

At Illuminate USA, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace.

We proudly embrace equal opportunity for all, ensuring that all qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Your unique background and experiences are valued here, as we believe they strengthen our team and drive our mission forward.