Quality Manager - Quality Systems

Who We Are

At nLIGHT, we are constantly extending the cutting‑edge of laser technology in multiple dynamic and growing markets. We are a leading provider of high‑power semiconductors and fiber lasers for industrial, microfabrication, and aerospace & defense applications, to name a few. Our lasers are changing not only the way things are made, but also changing the things that can be made.

Headquartered in Camas, Washington, nLIGHT is a publicly listed company (NASDAQ: LASR).

The Quality Manager is responsible for the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of the Quality Management System across nLIGHT’s Camas, Vancouver, and Hillsboro operations. This role is responsible for ensuring ISO 9001 compliance; overseeing document, change, deviation, and CAPA processes; supporting internal, supplier, and third‑party audits; and driving quality system performance through data analysis, process improvement, and cross‑functional collaboration. The position also provides leadership to the quality systems team and serves as a key partner in strengthening business processes, supporting contract manufacturer change management, and maintaining effective quality controls across our U.S. locations.

• Leads the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of the Quality Management System (QMS) across Camas, Vancouver, and Hillsboro to ensure ISO 9001 compliance and consistent quality practices.
• Oversees document and change control processes, including DMS, DCR, ECO, PDM, deviations, workflows, approvals, and record accuracy.
• Leads CAPA and audit activities, including review board facilitation, internal and external audit readiness, supplier quality audits, compliance with applicable standards and regulations, and maintenance of quality system records and documentation.
• Provides leadership and supervision to the quality systems team, including performance management, coaching, training, development, recognition, timecard approvals, and regular in‑person 1:1 meetings.
• Drives continuous improvement through data analysis, quality metrics, structured problem‑solving, and methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen, while partnering cross‑functionally to strengthen business processes and resolve quality issues.
• Prepares quality performance reports for management and supports contract manufacturer master data and change coordination, including D365 records, drawings, documents, and related updates.
• Other duties as assigned.

• 5+ years of experience as a Quality Engineer, Quality Manager, Quality Auditor, or in a related field, and a bachelor’s degree in engineering, science, math, statistics, or a related discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience as a supervisor or manager.
• Effective leadership skills and the ability to lead cross‑functional teams.
• Experience with the 7 quality tools.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation communication skills, with the ability to communicate clearly and professionally.
• Ability to solve challenging problems while promoting a productive and positive work environment.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office applications.
• Experience auditing manufacturing processes in a production or assembly environment.
• Experience collecting, analyzing, and presenting data to a diverse audience.
• Ability to use sound judgment and discretion and to escalation issues appropriately.
• Strong commitment to quality and continuous improvement.
• Strong analytical and project management skills.
• Strong mathematical and statistical skills.
• Ability to resolve complex issues involving multiple variables in demanding situations.
• Demonstrated ability to protect confidential and proprietary information, exercise discretion, and set professional boundaries.

The essential functions of this role generally require the ability to perform the following job‑related activities, with or without reasonable accommodation:

• Remain in a stationary position or move through the work area, production floors, labs, and other company locations for extended periods, as needed to perform inspections,…