Director of Product Quality

JOB DESCRIPTION Position Summary The Director of Product Quality at Axcelis Technologies will lead global strategic and operational initiatives to ensure world‑class manufacturing quality across all Axcelis production sites. This role is responsible for driving First Time Right manufacturing, defect prevention, process capability, and factory readiness, ensuring that semiconductor capital equipment is built consistently, reliably, and in full compliance with quality and regulatory requirements.  This leader will partner closely with Manufacturing Operations, Manufacturing Engineering, Product Engineering, Supplier Quality, and Customer Quality to embed quality at the source, reduce manufacturing escapes, and continuously improve factory performance. The ideal candidate is a strategic, hands‑on quality leader with deep experience in complex, high technology manufacturing environments and a proven ability to scale quality systems in support of business growth. Key Responsibilities Manufacturing Quality Leadership & Strategy Define and execute the global Manufacturing Quality strategy aligned with organization’s business objectives and growth plans. Serve as the primary quality partner to Manufacturing Operations leadership. Ensure consistent manufacturing quality standards, processes, and execution across all factories. Factory Quality & Process Control Own manufacturing quality performance including defect rates, rework, scrap, escapes, DOAs, in-box quality, and out‑of‑box quality. Establish and maintain standardized workmanship requirements, inspection plans, quality gates, and control plans. Ensure manufacturing processes are capable, repeatable, auditable, and scalable. Defect Prevention & Issue Resolution Lead root cause analysis (RCA), corrective and preventive actions (CAPA), and structured problem‑solving using 8D, A3, and other methodologies. Drive rapid containment and permanent corrective actions for manufacturing nonconformances. Partner with Engineering to prevent recurrence through design, process, and documentation improvements. Quality Systems & Compliance Oversee the development and continuous improvement of ISO 9001‑compliant manufacturing quality systems within the Axcelis Management System (AMS). Ensure compliance with internal procedures, regulatory requirements, and customer expectations. Lead internal audits, factory readiness reviews, and manufacturing process assessments. Cross‑Functional Collaboration Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering, Product Engineering, Test, and Supply Chain to embed quality early in the product lifecycle. Partner with Supplier Quality to ensure effective incoming quality, containment, and supplier corrective actions. Work closely with Customer Quality to reduce manufacturing escapes and improve customer perception of factory quality. Performance Management & Continuous Improvement Establish, monitor, and report manufacturing quality KPIs and metrics. Champion Lean, 5s, Six Sigma, SPC, and continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing. Drive accountability through data‑driven decision making and regular governance. Team Development & Leadership Build, mentor, and lead a high‑performing global Manufacturing Quality team. Foster a culture of ownership, prevention, and continuous improvement. Develop talent and support succession planning to meet future business needs. Qualifications Required: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related technical field; Master’s degree preferred. 10+ years of progressive experience in manufacturing quality or operations quality within semiconductor capital equipment or high‑tech manufacturing. Proven experience leading manufacturing quality teams in complex environments. Strong knowledge of ISO 9001, manufacturing quality systems, and process control methodologies. Expert in quality tools and methodologies (FMEA, SPC, 8D, RCA, CAPA, Lean, Six Sigma). Proven ability to lead cross‑functional teams and influence at all organizational levels. Strong communication & presentation skills with both technical & executive audiences. Ability to travel domestically and internationally as required (30%). Preferred: Experience supporting high‑mix, low‑to‑medium volume capital equipment manufacturing. Experience working in global manufacturing environments. Six Sigma Black Belt, ASQ CQE, or ISO Lead Auditor certification. Strong passion for quality, operational excellence, and continuous improvement. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT It is the policy of Axcelis to provide equal opportunity in all areas of employment for all persons free from discrimination based on race, sex, religion, age, color, national origin, disability status, medical condition (including pregnancy), veteran status, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.  Axcelis will provide reasonable accommodation necessary to enable a disabled candidate or employee to perform the essential functions of the position, unless the accommodation would create an undue hardship for the Company.   U.S. BASE SALARY RANGE $168,283.60 - $252,425.40 This base salary range reflects the typical compensation for this role across U.S. locations. Our salary ranges are determined by role and level; individual pay is determined based on multiple factors, including job-related skills, experience, relevant education or training, work location, and internal equity. The range provides the opportunity for growth and progression as you develop within the role. Base pay is one part of our U.S. total compensation package which includes eligibility in the Axcelis Team Incentive bonus plan, and comprehensive benefits package (for regular employees working 20+ hours a week).