Quality Manager- Japanese Bilingual

Position: Quality Assurance Manager

Location: Louisville, KY

Salary: $120,000–$140,000

Work Type: Full-Time, Onsite

Work Schedule: Standard business hours with flexibility for after-hours communication with Japan

Benefits: Medical, Dental, 401(k) with company match, 120 hours PTO, Relocation assistance available

Visa Support: Not available

Bonus: None

Position Overview

We are seeking a bilingual Quality Assurance Manager to lead and elevate the quality function at a growing automotive manufacturing operation in Louisville, KY. This role acts as the key bridge between U.S. operations and headquarters in Japan, ensuring alignment on quality standards, customer expectations, and continuous improvement initiatives.

With business volume increasing, this manager will take ownership of the quality program, guide a small team, and serve as the primary point of contact for quality-related matters with both Japanese and U.S. corporate customers. This is a high-visibility leadership opportunity for someone who thrives in cross-cultural communication, structured problem-solving, and driving results through PDCA methodology.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the on-site quality team
• Serve as the primary liaison between U.S. operations and Japan headquarters
• Communicate and negotiate quality-related matters with customers and vendors in both English and Japanese
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using PDCA methodology
• Ensure compliance with IATF 16949 standards
• Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective and preventive actions
• Prepare professional reports and presentations for internal leadership and headquarters
• Collaborate cross-functionally with production, engineering, and management teams
• Maintain high quality standards while supporting company growth

Qualifications

Required:

• 5+ years of quality assurance experience within the automotive industry
• Strong working knowledge of IATF 16949
• Proven experience leading PDCA-based continuous improvement initiatives
• Demonstrated ability to resolve quality issues and negotiate with customers/vendors
• Bilingual in English and Japanese (professional proficiency required)
• Strong report preparation and presentation skills

Preferred:

• Prior experience in a manager-level quality role
• Experience working with Japanese manufacturers or suppliers
• Comfortable working across time zones and handling occasional after-hours communication

To apply, please send your resume to latanaka@pasona.com