Always on the lookout…

By Sylvie Lemieux

A defective product, an ineffective production process, poorly-applied standards - nothing should get past the quality control supervisor. This individual keeps a watchful eye over products emerging from the production line and ensures that these correspond with the client's needs. He or she must also inspect the production procedures to make sure these adhere to quality standards in the industry. Something not quite right? He or she straightens things out by establishing new work procedures that will make it possible to attain set objectives. The quality control supervisor plays many roles: employee training on assembly right up to the step where the product is shipped to the client. If necessary, this individual consults the other company departments (engineering, marketing, R&D) to collect the information necessary for his or her work.

Among other responsibilities, the quality control supervisor oversees the different steps involved in obtaining or maintaining the company's ISO 9002 certification, and must ensure that the information pertaining to each product can be found in a central location in accordance with the specifications outlined in the ISO standards manual.

The big picture

To succeed in this field, the quality control supervisor must demonstrate heightened analytical skills and problem-solving abilities. This individual must be able to see "the big picture" with regard to all projects under way. He or she possesses a keen sense of organization, an inquisitive mind and, of course, is conscientious about quality. During inspections, this individual must demonstrate a great deal of discipline. The same is true in the application of quality procedures and standards. The quality control supervisor must be capable of rallying people together to ensure that everyone is working in the same direction. The power to influence and persuade is definitely a must. This type of work also requires the incumbent to be abreast of the production and quality standards in effect in the industry and, depending on the case, must adapt quickly to change and demonstrate a propensity to learning new processes.

The quality control supervisor's frequent contact with clients and suppliers requires this individual to master the English language, both written and spoken. He or she must also have a sound knowledge of different technical languages and processes.

Focused on experience

What training is required to aspire to this position? A background in electronics and knowledge of the basic principles of physics, and of the production processes in the optics and photonics industries are sought. Chiefly, applicants must have 8 to 10 years of solid experience in quality control and in quality assurance procedures. Sound experience in electronic components and mechanics may also be useful.