Quality Management System Manager

At Ouster, we build sensors and tools for engineers, roboticists, and researchers, so they can make the world safer and more efficient. We've transformed LIDAR from an analog device with thousands of components to an elegant digital device powered by one chip-scale laser array and one CMOS sensor. The result is a full range of high-resolution LIDAR sensors that deliver superior imaging at a dramatically lower price. Our advanced sensor hardware and vision algorithms are used in autonomous cars, drones and many other applications. If you’re motivated by solving big problems, we’re hiring key roles across the company and need your help!

Position Summary: We are seeking a highly motivated and hands-on QMS Manager/Coordinator to upgrade and maintain Ouster’s ISO9001/14001 QMS. Also, the QMS Manager/Coordinator will play a pivotal role in establishing our IATF 16949 Quality Management System. Working closely with an external consulting firm and various internal stakeholders, this position will be instrumental in driving our certification efforts and ensuring robust quality processes across all operations. The ideal candidate will be a proactive communicator, meticulous in documentation, and dedicated to fostering a culture of continuous improvement within an automotive manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• IATF 16949 System Implementation Support:
  • Act as the primary internal point of contact and liaison between the external IATF 16949 consultant and internal functional teams.
  • Hands-on collaboration: Work directly with process owners (e.g., Engineering, Manufacturing, Purchasing, Logistics, Sales) to deeply understand current processes, identify gaps against IATF 16949 requirements, and facilitate the development of new, compliant procedures and work instructions.
  • Lead and facilitate internal meetings and workshops with stakeholders to draft, review, and finalize QMS documentation (e.g., Quality Manual, Procedures, Forms, Records).
  • Ensure all QMS documentation accurately reflects current operational practices and IATF 16949 standards, working to bridge theoretical requirements with practical application.
  • Assist in the development and deployment of QMS training materials for employees across all levels.
  • Support the consultant in preparing for all certification audits (readiness reviews, internal audits, stage 1 & 2 audits).
  • Track progress of QMS implementation activities and report status to management and the external consultant.
• QMS Maintenance & Improvement:
  • Support the ongoing maintenance of the QMS, including document control, record management, and system updates.
  • Act as a liaison with external parties on matters relating to the quality management system
  • Administer Corrective Action Request (CAR) program, including authorization and closeout of CARs
  • Communicate and work effectively with all functional departments within the organization
  • Communicate and work effectively with Customers, Suppliers and Auditors
  • Develop/implement/champion policies, procedures and processes that improve product quality, reduce costs and improve productivity
  • Develop/implement data collection methods to support process improvements and track quality-related business metrics
  • Scheduling, conducting, and documenting internal audits to verify QMS effectiveness and compliance. Perform internal audits, provide audit results, and drive resolution of findings with the functional managers
  • Support the management review process by compiling data and preparing reports on QMS performance for management reviews.
  • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to the QMS and operational processes.
• Customer Quality Support:
  • Act as a key support for all customer-related quality activities, ensuring timely and accurate responses.
  • Assist with customer visits and audits, preparing necessary documentation and coordinating internal resources.
  • Support the preparation and submission of customer-specific quality documentation (e.g., PPAP, APQP, FMEA, Control Plans, SPC data).
  • Facilitate communication regarding customer complaints, quality issues, and corrective actions (8D reports), ensuring thorough investigation and resolution.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Quality Management, or a related technical field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 5-7 years of experience in a quality assurance or quality control role within a manufacturing environment, preferably automotive.
• Demonstrated understanding of Quality Management Systems, with foundational knowledge of ISO 9001 and/or IATF 16949 standards. (Direct IATF 16949 implementation experience is a strong plus, but not required given the consultant support.)
• Proven ability to read and interpret technical specifications, engineering drawings, and quality standards.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with diverse teams, from shop floor personnel to senior management and external consultants.
• Strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail in documentation and record-keeping.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Visio/flowcharting tools).
• Proactive, self-starter with a strong sense of ownership and a problem-solving mindset.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications (Nice to Have):

• Previous experience working directly on an IATF 16949 implementation project.
• Internal Auditor certification for ISO 9001 or IATF 16949.
• Familiarity with core automotive quality tools (APQP, PPAP, FMEA, SPC, MSA).

The base pay will be dependent on your skills, work experience, location, and qualifications. This role may also be eligible for equity & benefits. ($91,000-$168,000)

We acknowledge the confidence gap at Ouster. You do not need to meet all of these
requirements to be the ideal candidate for this role.

Ouster is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer that pursues and hires a diverse workforce. Ouster does not make employment decisions on the basis of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, nationality, sex, gender, gender-identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, military status, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal laws. Ouster also strives for a healthy and safe workplace, and prohibits harassment of any kind. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Ouster considers qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.