Job Summary
As a department manager, this role manages the overall quality control process, talent, and facility/equipment of the Parts Collection Center (PCC). Responsibilities include motivating department members, leveraging in‑depth knowledge to enhance current processes, and accurately identifying operational issues to implement effective improvements.

The main areas of responsibility are: (1) quality improvement at Subaru of Indiana Automotive (SIA) and (2) expanding PCC’s capabilities for investigating defective parts returned from the market.

For quality improvement at SIA, this role serves as a critical resource to investigate the causes of vehicle parts quality issues arising from reported market defects. Based on input and recommendations from the Vice President (VP) and other PCC department members, this role determines the priority and significance of each defect case, promotes improvements until effective countermeasures are incorporated, and determines the appropriateness of preventive measures to prevent recurrence.

For expanding PCC’s investigation capabilities, this role develops strategic plans and leads reproduction and verification of defects using returned market parts. This role carries out or oversees investigations, determines root cause, and develops investigation policy and direction through joint inspection meetings.

Ensures continuous information sharing with related departments and coordinates and negotiates with them for quality improvement. Collaborates effectively with Fast Action & Solution Team (FAST), Subaru of America (SOA), and Subaru Corporation (SBR).

Primary Responsibilities

Leads Quality Improvement Investigations for SIA

Serves as the investigation leader for flagged‑up and high‑priority SIA quality issues
Manages and participates in related follow‑up meetings
Guides department members in determining the effectiveness of improvement measures
Works with stakeholders to make informed and actionable recommendations
Leads investigation planning by identifying necessary steps, information, and stakeholders
Influences negotiations and decisions using subject matter knowledge

Develops Defect Reproduction and Verification Strategies

Develops strategies and work plans to promote verification of defect reproduction for returned market parts
Identifies applicable policies, required data, and evaluation structure
Creates detailed and actionable investigation plans
Monitors timelines and progress in collaboration with PCC members

Responds to Critical and Urgent Quality Issues

Conducts thorough investigations for complex, urgent, and critical quality reports from the market or SIA
Immediately reports findings to relevant departments and executive members
Determines and directs action plans for timely implementation

Drives Policy and Process Improvements

Reviews relevant policies and processes
Implements appropriate changes based on subject matter expertise and operational knowledge
Collaborates with North American Subaru, Inc. (NASI) practitioners
Drives integration of best practices and operational improvements

Manages Department Personnel

Manages local department members, including career development, performance evaluation, hiring, and training

Oversees Work Output and Prioritization

Maintains responsibility for completeness and quality of work output
Manages staff prioritization and provides support for complex situations requiring deeper subject matter expertise

Responds to SIA Production Vehicle Emergencies

Responds to emergencies related to SIA production vehicles, including VIN list creation, information updates, and inquiry windows

Coordinates Escalation with SBR and Suppliers in Japan

Initiates and accelerates cooperation requests with Subaru Corporation (SBR) and supplier parent companies in Japan when SIA or suppliers face resolution challenges
Works closely with Fast Action & Solution Team (FAST)

Additional Responsibilities

Subaru Yard Operations (SYO) Coordination

Confirms details of important Subaru Yard Operations (SOA yard) issues with SIA and follows up on responses

Team Monitoring and Direction

Regularly meets with the team to review accomplishments and progress
Provides clear direction for next actions

Process Checks and Supplier Audits

Conducts SIA process checks and supplier manufacturing process audits
Confirms root cause and effectiveness of countermeasures

Defect Scope and Breakpoint Confirmation

Confirms defect scope (target vehicles)
Confirms vehicle breakpoint where countermeasures are incorporated into production

Quality Improvement Meetings and Reporting

Participates in quality improvement promotion meetings organized by SIA and FAST (SOA and Subaru Canada, Inc. [SCI])
Participates in meetings with Subaru Corporation (SBR) for urgent and critical cases
Prepares materials and explains investigation status and findings

Job Requirements
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Education

Bachelor’s Degree (Required)
High School Diploma with equivalent experience in lieu of a degree (Required)

Work Experience

At least 8–10 years of experience with a bachelor’s degree (Required)
At least 10–12 years of experience without a bachelor’s degree (Required)

Skills

Experience managing people and leading teams
Ability to take a leadership role in promoting SIA quality improvement
Ability to share information on issues in a timely manner and work in a planned approach to resolution
Strong understanding of vehicle component structure and function
Ability to engage in technical discussions with FAST and SIA to determine defect causes
Ability to build and maintain trust through communication, cooperation, and reliability
Understanding of Japanese business culture and ability to coordinate and negotiate effectively
Practical experience in vehicle light maintenance; heavy maintenance experience preferred
Ability to perform light mechanical duties similar to an automotive technician
Experience with vehicle parts disassembly and assembly
Experience with technical components of Subaru vehicles (Preferred)
Ability to develop investigation plans, analyses, and determine best actions based on results
Strong written, verbal, and presentation skills
Ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast‑paced environment
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and Access, and report creation

Location

• Office Location: Lafayette, IN

• Hybrid Role: Hybrid Role - Remote work 2 days per week (after 90 days) [Wednesdays & Fridays]

Compensation: The recruiting base salary range for this full-time position is $115,000 – $165,000 per year, depending on skills, experience, and qualifications.

Subaru offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
Pension, Profit Sharing, and 401(k) match
Paid time off, company holidays, floating holidays, and sick time
Tuition Reimbursement Program
Vehicle Discount Programs

Visit our Careers site to learn more about Subaru’s total rewards and benefits.

About Subaru
LOVE. It’s what makes Subaru, Subaru®. As a leading auto brand in the U.S., we strive to be More Than a Car Company®. Subaru believes in being a positive force in the communities in which we live and work—not just with donations, but through actions that set an example for others to follow. That’s what we call our Subaru Love Promise®.
Subaru is a globally renowned automobile manufacturer known for its commitment to innovation, safety, and sustainability. With a rich history dating back to 1953, Subaru continues to push the boundaries of automotive engineering to deliver vehicles that blend performance, utility, and adventure.
Our culture is built on collaboration, diversity, and a shared passion for our product. We foster an inclusive environment where team members are encouraged to bring their unique perspectives and expertise together to create exceptional experiences for our customers.

Subaru of America

Latest Jobs

District Parts/Service Manager (MSP-D1- Minneapolis Area)

Quality Improvement Department Manager - Parts Collection Center