WASH QUALITY SPECIALIST

POSITION SUMMARY

At Pendleton Woolen Mills, our Quality Specialist inspects and evaluates materials and products as they move through the mill environment ensuring quality and regulatory standards are met all along the way. They partner with Design and Operations teams to identify root causes and solutions, ensuring our products, services, and processes meet quality and industry standards.

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS:

• Defect Rate (number of defects per 1000 yards/or per product batch)
• First Pass Yield (Percentage of products meeting quality standards without rework)
• Inspection Accuracy (Variance between in-house inspection and external/customer inspection results)
• Response Time / Solution Time

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB

• Gather samples of weave headings, yarn, and fabric to perform testing.
• Review and interpret data-driven results
• Maintain a sharp eye for inconsistencies, color variations, texture flaws, or measurement deviations
• Document/create reports/maintain files, maintain QMS
• Confirm product shade accuracy before releasing for usage.
• Build positive and collaborative working relationships with department managers and team members.
• Recommend and implement new work standards or modifications.
• Communicate quality concerns with the team leader and mill management clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Follow SOPs and other types of work instructions and directions, asking for assistance and clarification where needed.
• Manage processes and project timelines according to established priorities.
• Maintain accurate records through process design, workflows, and routine audit.
• Prepare layout folders, email announcements, and top-slips.
• Coordinate and analyze internal/external lab testing

BEHAVIORAL

• Curious, willingness to learn
• Analytical and critical thinking
• Adaptability and resilience
• Technical and creative problem-solving skills with continuous improvement

QUALIFICATIONS

• 3-4 years' experience in a Quality Specialist, Quality Assurance, or Quality Coordinator role
• Must pass Farnsworth Color Vision Test
• Minimum of 3 years in a manufacturing setting
• Requires an understanding of textile manufacturing

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, and navigate safely throughout production areas.
• Frequent handling of fabric rolls and samples; occasional lifting up to 25 pounds.
• Regular use of hands to operate office equipment, testing tools, and cutting instruments.
• Adequate visual acuity to assess fabric quality, color, and weaving patterns.
• Work performed in an office using computers, phones, and standard equipment, and in a mill environment with moving machinery and moderate noise.
• Exposure to fabric fibers, varying temperatures, and production activity.
• Requires adherence to safety procedures with proper PPE.