Quality Assurance Manager

About the role

Iplex Pipelines NZ is seeking an experienced Quality Assurance Manager to lead quality and laboratory functions within its Palmerston North manufacturing site. Reporting to the EHSQ Manager, you will work hands‑on with operational teams to strengthen quality systems, reduce scrap, and ensure compliance with AS/NZS and ISO standards.

Key responsibilities

• Provide technical support for manufacturing quality issues, supplier concerns, and customer complaints.
• Maintain and improve quality processes aligned with AS/NZS and ISO standards.
• Support audits, certifications, and compliance activities, including IANZ requirements.
• Analyse defect trends to identify opportunities for scrap reduction and performance improvement.
• Ensure laboratory equipment is calibrated, validated, and maintained.
• Liaise with suppliers and customers to resolve quality‑related issues.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the Quality Assurance and Laboratory teams, delivering practical training.
• Identify and manage quality risks associated with projects and product changes.

Required profile

• Strong technical expertise in a manufacturing environment.
• Proven leadership and coaching experience.
• Proactive approach to continuous improvement.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Collaborative, adaptable, and solutions‑focused mindset.

Required skills

• AS/NZS standards
• IANZ laboratory requirements
• Plastics testing methods
• Extrusion, injection moulding, or rotational moulding processes
• SAP or similar quality management systems (preferred)

What we offer

• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a respected New Zealand manufacturing organisation.
• Leadership role driving quality improvement initiatives.
• Supportive environment that values innovation, safety, and operational excellence.