Job description:

Brookwood Finishing is the Rhode Island manufacturing division of Brookwood Companies. Our facility, with over 300,000 square feet, operates on continuous shifts using state-of-the art finishing equipment for dyeing, finishing, coating and printing of woven synthetic fabrics.

We are seeking a highly skilled and technically savvy Quality Technician to support and enhance our textile manufacturing quality assurance team. This role goes beyond traditional inspection, positioning the technician as the system champion for our advanced inspection technologies, including a new AI-driven defect detection system. The ideal candidate will demonstrate expertise in defect analysis, system operation, and team training, playing a key role in driving quality performance and digital innovation on the production floor.

Duties/Responsibilities:

Advanced Inspection & Quality Control:

• Perform detailed inspections using the automated textile machine to ensure compliance with internal standards and customer specifications.
• Identify, classify, and document textile defects including weaving issues, dye variations, contamination, and surface flaws.
• Interpret quality levels and apply judgment in determining defect severity and product disposition.

System Champion – Advanced Inspection Technologies:

• Lead the implementation, operation, and continuous optimization of a state-of-the-art automated visual inspection system.
• Act as primary liaison with system vendors and manufacturing teams to manage calibration, testing, and upgrades.
• Monitor system performance, troubleshoot technical issues, and coordinate necessary adjustments.

Training & Support:

• Develop training materials and lead training sessions for operators and quality staff on inspection systems, software interfaces, and quality protocols.
• Support cross-functional teams with ongoing coaching to ensure consistent inspection practices and understanding of defect classifications.

Computer-Based Data Management:

• Utilize digital tools to log inspection results, generate defect reports, and track trends in quality performance.
• Perform data analysis to support root cause investigations and recommend corrective/preventive actions (CAPAs).

Continuous Improvement:

• Participate in quality audits and continuous improvement initiatives focused on product quality, process efficiency, and system reliability.
• Work closely with production, engineering, and R&D teams to identify process improvements and reduce defect rates.

Skills/Qualifications:

• Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Textile Engineering, Quality Technology, Industrial Engineering, or a related field, preferred.
• 3+ years of quality control/inspection experience in a textile or manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of textile materials, defect types, and quality grading systems.
• Experience in machine vision systems or automated inspection technology, preferred.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other quality management methodologies, preferred.
• Hands-on experience with computer-based inspection systems and AI-powered defect detection platforms.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and quality software (e.g., MES, ERP, or SPC systems).
• Excellent communication skills, particularly in training and technical documentation.
• Strong analytical, diagnostic, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced production environment.

Brookwood is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Referral program
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift

Work Location: In person

Pay: $50,000.00 – $55,000.00 per year