Quality Program Manager

About the role

The Quality Program Manager at Proto Labs is a vital on-site position based in Plymouth, MN, responsible for leading initiatives that enhance the company's Quality Management System (QMS). This role involves working closely with cross-functional teams to drive continuous improvement of quality processes, tools, and information systems. The goal is to ensure these systems are scalable, effective, and user-friendly, supporting operational excellence and compliance across the organization. As a strategic partner, the Quality Program Manager will focus on improving the usability and adoption of quality systems, helping employees work more efficiently while maintaining high standards of quality and customer satisfaction. This position offers an opportunity to influence enterprise-wide quality practices, solve complex challenges, and deliver meaningful improvements that support Proto Labs' growth and commitment to excellence.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Lead efforts to improve and optimize the Document Management System, focusing on enhancing functionality, user experience, and overall effectiveness to support quality operations.
• Identify opportunities to streamline and enhance QMS processes, tools, and information systems, increasing efficiency, user adoption, and overall value for the organization.
• Drive cross-functional quality improvement initiatives that strengthen system performance, streamline workflows, and support continuous improvement efforts across departments.
• Collaborate with teams across the organization to implement best practices in quality systems management, ensuring consistency and compliance with industry standards.
• Support the scaling of quality capabilities by helping develop and deploy new processes and tools that align with company growth and operational needs.
• Monitor and analyze quality system performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and develop strategies to address them effectively.
• Facilitate training and change management initiatives to promote understanding and adoption of quality systems and processes among employees.
• Act as a liaison between quality teams and other departments to ensure alignment of quality objectives with business goals.
• Support compliance efforts by ensuring quality systems meet relevant standards and regulations, including ITAR if applicable.
• Lead efforts to document and communicate quality initiatives, progress, and results to stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement by encouraging feedback, innovation, and best practices within the quality ecosystem.
• Assist in the development of quality performance dashboards and reporting tools to provide visibility into quality metrics and trends.

Requirements

• Proven experience managing or improving Quality Management Systems, preferably in a manufacturing or digital manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of quality processes, tools, and information systems, with the ability to identify opportunities for process enhancements.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional projects and collaborate effectively with diverse teams.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on data-driven decision-making.
• Experience in driving continuous improvement initiatives and implementing process enhancements.
• Familiarity with document management systems and quality system software used in manufacturing or related industries.
• Strong communication skills, capable of conveying complex quality concepts clearly and effectively to various audiences.
• Ability to work on-site in Plymouth, MN, and support organizational goals through active engagement and presence.
• Knowledge of compliance standards relevant to manufacturing, including ITAR regulations if applicable.
• A proactive mindset with the ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to changing organizational needs.
• Commitment to maintaining high standards of quality, compliance, and operational excellence.

Nice to have

• Previous experience working in manufacturing or digital manufacturing environments.
• Familiarity with industry standards such as ISO, AS9100, or other relevant quality certifications.
• Experience with ITAR regulations or other compliance frameworks relevant to manufacturing.
• Background in project management methodologies, such as Lean, Six Sigma, or similar process improvement tools.
• Knowledge of enterprise quality software platforms and integrations.
• Ability to foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within the organization.

Skills & tools

• Quality Management System (QMS) tools and platforms
• Document management systems
• Data analysis and reporting tools
• Process improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma)
• Cross-functional collaboration and communication skills
• Project management skills and tools
• Change management techniques

Practical notes

• This is an on-site role based in Plymouth, MN, working Monday through Friday.
• The position requires physical presence at the company's office; remote or hybrid arrangements are .
• The role involves working closely with multiple teams to implement and improve quality systems and processes.
• The company values diversity and encourages applications from candidates who may not meet every qualification but are eager to contribute and grow.
• Proto Labs is committed to equal opportunity employment and fostering an inclusive work environment that values diverse perspectives.
• The role offers an excellent opportunity for a motivated professional to influence quality practices at a leading digital manufacturing company.
• Candidates should be prepared to engage actively in continuous improvement initiatives and support the organization's growth and operational excellence goals.