Sr. Manager, Electrode QA

Job Description

Empower Every Possibility.

As one of the largest battery manufacturers in the world, LG Energy Solution aims to be an eco-friendly company that prioritizes the environment, fulfills its social responsibility, and creates sustainable future values.

Located in Queen Creek, Arizona, LG Energy Solution Arizona, Inc. will lead production of LG's cylindrical batteries(EVs) in the North America.

Come join us in an exciting adventure of awakening the world with energy!

Title: Sr. Manager, Electrode QA (Quality Assurance)

Reports to: Quality Director

Location: Queen Creek, AZ

We awaken the world with Energy. LG Energy Solution Arizona, Inc. (LGESAZ) develops and manufactures cylindrical batteries for electric vehicles (EVs), the first such facility in the United States. Come join the leader in advanced IT and Mobility energy solutions to help us Empower Every Possibility! Company LinkedIn

Summary:

This position is responsible for leading the development, implementation and continuous improvement of methods and procedures throughout the battery electrode manufacturing process to ensure compliance with company specifications. As the electrode is a critical component in lithium-ion batteries, maintaining its quality and reliability is essential. The role involves evaluating, developing, and standardizing techniques to enhance process control and align with corporate quality systems. Additionally, this position oversees and mentors Quality, Engineering, and Production leaders and team members in quality assurance activities, including the Production Part Approval Process (PPAP), Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (PFMEA), Statistical Process Control (SPC), Gage Repeatability and Reproducibility (Gage R&R), calibration systems, and the execution of both corrective and preventive actions.

Responsibilities:

Drive and support continuous quality improvement initiatives within the electrode manufacturing process

Collaborate with Operations and Engineering teams on process optimizations and engineering changes related to electrode production

Develop robust recordkeeping systems and procedures tailored to electrode quality management

Define, plan, and implement both short- and long-term goals for the electrode quality assurance function

Establish and monitor quality goals and performance metrics for electrode products, ensuring alignment with business objectives

Oversee internal and external audit procedures related to electrode quality compliance

Recruit, train, mentor, and manage quality team members, set priorities, and evaluate individual and team performance

Serve as the Management Representative for electrode quality, ensuring compliance with International Automotive Task Force (IATF) 16949 standards

Ensure team is executing on process to identify nonconforming electrode components, applying containment actions, and preventing progression to subsequent production stages

Ensure QA team supports plant production by ensuring all electrode components consistently meet engineering specifications and functional requirements

Lead Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) activities and ensure successful new product launches for electrode-related components

Establish, communicate, and meet internal control system requirements related to electrode quality in a timely and effective manner

Ensure QA team conducts thorough root cause analysis of quality issues and recommend corrective and preventive actions

Improve process capability on critical characteristics through the application of statistical analysis tools and structured problem-solving techniques

Proactively engage with suppliers and SQA function to minimize and eliminate quality and performance issues during both product launch and ongoing production phases

Champion cleanliness at the worksite in accordance with 5S3R Standards:

- 5S: Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain

- 3R: Right Location, Right Quantity, Right Container

Coach on thorough and timely layered process audits in appropriate work areas related to electrode production

Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications and Requirements :

Minimum of 10 years of experience in quality management, Tier 1 automotive environment strongly desired

Minimum of 3 years of experience leading and managing a team

Bachelor's Degree in engineering, quality or related field required

Significant proven experience with IATF standards, as well as in quality assurance activities/tools (PPAP, PFMEA, SPC, Gage R&R, Calibration systems, corrective & preventative actions, etc.)

Six Sigma certification preferred

Proven problem solving experience (Eight Disciplines Methodology (8D), Corrective Actions, etc.)

Battery manufacturing or chemical manufacturing experience highly desired, but not required

Must be able to properly and regularly utilize the following Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for a period of up to 12 hours

Safety glasses

Steel-toed shoes

Must be able to perform the following over the course of up to 12 hours per day

Sit and/or stand for lengthy periods

Skills :

Proven expertise in Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP), inspection equipment, and techniques, as well as experience with root cause failure analysis, capability studies, statistical distributions, and both machine and assembly processes

In-depth knowledge of Process Flow Diagrams (PFD), Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (PFMEA), Control Plans, Production Part Approval Process (PPAP), 8D problem-solving reports, Five Whys, team facilitation techniques, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T)

Strong understanding of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Control Plans, Critical to Quality (CTQ) characteristics, and Process Audit Parameters

Demonstrated ability to deliver results within deadlines, exhibiting a positive and dedicated attitude

Flexibility and willingness to occasionally work extended hours to support the team

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate complex technical concepts to diverse teams

Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and Minitab for data analysis and reporting

Strong analytical skills with the ability to analyze data, prepare reports, statements, and projections

Ability to apply logical thinking and scientific methods to diagnose and address root causes of quality issues, coupled with a strong commitment to continuous improvement and idea generation

Proficient in resolving challenges encountered by team members during inspections, fostering better teamwork and communication

A strong sense of ownership, demonstrating responsibility for assigned tasks and ensuring their resolution.

Flexible in working hours to support the production team as necessary

Expertise in applying specific problem-solving techniques such as Fault Tree Analysis, FMEA, and 8D problem-solving reports to resolve quality issues

Why should you work here?

1. You contribute towards more sustainable future

2. You are working with cutting-edge technologies

3. You will receive market leading Total Rewards Package

4. You will explore various Career Growth & Internal Advancement Opportunities

EEO Statement

LG Energy Solution Arizona, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer

Full-time