Quality Specialist

Vulcan Elements is manufacturing American rare-earth permanent magnets for a secure, resilient future. With a focus on national security and economic resiliency, we serve critical industries such as defense, aerospace, and automotive powering a high-technology future. Vulcan Elements is building a team of ambitious professionals committed to Mission Focus, Technical Excellence and Transparency.

The Quality Specialist supports the Quality Management System (QMS) by performing process inspections, sampling and evaluation of materials and products, maintaining quality records, and ensuring compliance with company procedures and customer requirements. This role works closely with Operations, Engineering, Supply Chain, and the Analytical Lab to ensure product quality throughout the manufacturing process.

Responsibilities

Sampling & Inspection

• Verify incoming raw materials against purchase documentation, labels, and Certificates of Analysis (COAs).
• Collect and prepare samples for laboratory analysis.

• Perform incoming, in-process, and final product inspections and testing according to Control Plans, SOPs, and work instructions.

• Evaluate magnet samples against acceptance criteria (shape, uniformity, cracks, etc.) prior to lab submission
• Submit production samples to the lab for all applicable processes: log samples in MES system, confirm the required testing per control plan, and assign priorities
• Passivate all samples prior to submitting to the lab for analyses
• Own passivation chamber loading/unloading and maintenance
• Track and log passivation cycles per batch/lot
• Assist with document control, quality records, and training documentation.
• Generate and apply labels for manufacturing batch containers and sample vials (batch/lot ID, date, test type).
• Maintain accurate, legible records supporting travelers (BPR), lot traceability and best documentation requirements.
• Generate and review Certificates of Analysis (COAs) and quality documentation for shipments.
• Help maintain Control Plans and inspection instructions.
• Serve as the daily point of contact between production and the lab.
• Serve as the primary quality representative on the production floor.
• Maintain accurate inspection records, quality logs, and electronic records in MES/QMS systems.
• Review inspection and test results against acceptance criteria and communicate nonconforming results.
• Identify, document, and segregate nonconforming materials using the material hold process.
• Flag process deviations and nonconformances.
• Communicate lab turnaround and results back to production to keep runs moving.
• Assist in daily scheduling of material runs, coordinating with production and lab availability

Continuous Improvement

• Support investigations of nonconforming products, deviations, and customer complaints.

• Participate in root cause analysis and implementation of corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
• Support implementation and continuous improvement of the Quality Management System.
• Participate in internal audits and process audits as assigned. Suggest process improvements based on floor observations.

• Work with Operations and Engineering to improve manufacturing processes and product quality.

• Promote good housekeeping, safety, and compliance with company procedures.
• Act as an on-the-floor resource — help train and guide production staff on correct sampling, labeling, and documentation practices
• Perform other quality-related duties as assigned.

 Responsibilities and tasks outlined are not exhaustive and may change as determined by the needs of the business

Qualifications

• Associate degree or higher in Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Chemistry, Materials Science, or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.
• 2+ years of experience in a manufacturing quality environment (Quality Technician, QC Inspector, or similar role).
• Experience with inspection techniques, sampling, and measurement equipment.
• Ability to read engineering drawings, specifications, and control plans.
• Familiarity with Quality Management Systems (ISO 9001 and/or IATF 16949 preferred).
• Experience using ERP, MES, or QMS software is preferred.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• ASQ Certified Quality Technician (CQT) or similar certification is a plus.

Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams.
Must be a U.S. Person due to required access to U.S. export-controlled information or facilities.

Physical and Environmental Requirements

The position requires regular presence on the production floor and the ability to navigate all areas of the facility. Candidates must be able to climb stairs, stand and walk for extended periods, and work in environments that may be hot, humid, or noisy. The role involves exposure to cut hazards and other physical risks associated with equipment, tools, and production processes. Employees must be able to recognize and avoid sharp edges, moving parts, and other potential sources of injury.

This position also requires the use of personal protective equipment, including respirators, and adherence to all applicable safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements. Employees must complete required fit testing, wear appropriate PPE for the duration of assigned tasks, and respond safely to changing conditions within the production environment.