Quality Manager

About Overland AI:  

Founded in 2022 and headquartered in Seattle, Washington, Overland AI is transforming land operations for modern defense. The company leverages over a decade of advanced research in robotics and machine learning, as well as a field-test forward ethos, to deliver combined capabilities for unit commanders. Our OverDrive autonomy stack enables ground vehicles to navigate and operate off-road in any terrain without GPS or direct operator control. Our intuitive OverWatch C2 interface provides commanders with precise coordination capabilities essential for mission success.  

Overland AI has secured funding from prominent defense tech investors, including 8VC and Point 72, and built trusted partnerships with DARPA, the U.S. Army, Marine Corps, and Special Operations Command. Backed by eight-figure contracts across the Department of Defense, we are strengthening national security by iterating closely with end users engaged in tactical operations.

Role Summary: 

We are seeking a highly skilled and dedicated Quality Manager to oversee and ensure the highest standards of product quality at our autonomous vehicle manufacturing facility. The ideal candidate will be responsible for creating and leading the quality management system (QMS), ensuring the effectiveness of quality controls, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. The role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams to maintain product integrity, safety, and performance, all while meeting regulatory standards and customer expectations.

This is an exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of innovation within the unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) industry, where precision, reliability, and quality are paramount.

Key Responsibilities: 

1. Quality Management System (QMS) Oversight:
   • Develop, implement, and continuously improve the Quality Management System to align with ISO 9001 and automotive industry standards (e.g., IATF 16949, VDA 6.3).
   • Lead the internal audit process to evaluate the effectiveness of QMS and ensure compliance with industry regulations and company policies.
   • Monitor and report on quality metrics, ensuring they align with customer requirements, industry standards, and company objectives.
2. Process and Product Quality Assurance:
   • Oversee and ensure the consistent application of quality standards across all production processes, from raw materials through to finished autonomous vehicle systems.
   • Work closely with the engineering and manufacturing teams to develop, implement, and maintain process control plans, ensuring that all processes meet specified quality standards.
   • Define and enforce product specifications for key components of UGVs, ensuring every product adheres to performance, safety, and regulatory requirements.
3. Supplier and Vendor Quality Management:
   • Establish and maintain effective supplier quality management practices, including supplier audits, selection, evaluation, and continuous improvement programs.
   • Collaborate with the purchasing department to ensure quality standards are communicated and upheld in the supply chain.
   • Conduct regular supplier performance reviews and implement corrective actions to resolve any quality-related issues.
4. Non-Conformance and Corrective Action Management:
   • Investigate and resolve non-conformance issues related to both materials and finished goods.
   • Lead root cause analysis and corrective action processes for any identified quality issues, working cross-functionally to implement solutions.
   • Drive a culture of accountability and continuous improvement by ensuring timely and effective resolution of quality concerns.
5. Cross-Functional Collaboration:
   • Partner with engineering, production, and R&D teams to ensure product designs meet quality requirements and are manufacturable at scale.
   • Provide training and guidance on quality best practices to all production and engineering teams.
   • Participate in regular design reviews and risk assessments to ensure that potential quality concerns are identified and mitigated early in the development process.
6. Compliance and Regulatory Oversight:
   • Ensure compliance with all relevant industry and governmental regulations, as well as international quality requirements.
   • Monitor and interpret changes in industry regulations and proactively ensure that the manufacturing process and product development remain compliant.
   • Maintain and provide documentation for quality certifications, audits, and inspections as required by customers and regulatory bodies.
7. Leadership and Team Development:
   • Be a leader of the Quality Assurance team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and high performance.
   • Set clear objectives and targets for the quality team, ensuring alignment with overall company goals and strategy

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality Management, Manufacturing, or related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in quality management or quality assurance, ideally in the automotive, aerospace or other vehicle manufacturing industry.
• Proven track record of managing quality teams and implementing effective QMS in a manufacturing environment.
• In-depth knowledge of quality management tools (e.g., Six Sigma, FMEA, SPC, Control Plans) and industry-specific standards (e.g., ISO 9001, IATF 16949).

Skills:

• Strong analytical skills and problem-solving abilities, particularly in identifying and resolving root causes of quality issues.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Familiarity with autonomous vehicle technologies and manufacturing processes (e.g., sensors, AI systems, vehicle components).
• Proficiency in quality management software and data analysis tools.

Certifications:

• Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification preferred.
• ASQ Certified Quality Manager (CQM) or similar certifications preferred.
• ISO 9001 Lead Auditor certification a plus.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with occasional exposure to noise, heat, and machinery.
• Frequent use of computers, including entering and analyzing data.
• Some travel may be required for supplier visits, audits, and industry conferences.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance.

Location: Rainier Beach, Seattle

Benefits: 

Overland AI believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day.  

• The salary range for this position is $100K to $160K annually 
• Equity compensation 
• Best-in-class healthcare, dental, and vision plans  
• Unlimited PTO 
• 401k with company match 
• Parental leave