Quality Assurance Technician

Job Title: Quality Assurance Technician                          Entry Level Position

Gratz Pilates is seeking a detail-oriented, tech-savvy second-shift Quality Assurance Tech to join our production team. 

Position Summary: In this role, you will be responsible for visually documenting and verifying the quality of our handcrafted Pilates apparatus at every step of the manufacturing process. Your key responsibility will include photographing equipment throughout production and uploading those images to a shared cloud system, ensuring we maintain consistency, accuracy, and transparency in our product quality. 

Quality Assurance Reporting & Issue Resolution:  

• Perform real-time quality assurance checks at each stage of the production process.
• Use Fast Fields to complete QA SOPs and log production issues into designated Excel log.
• Identify and flag defects or inconsistencies, exercising judgment on when to escalate issues.
• Conduct spot checks on inventory or finished goods when necessary.

Documentation & Record Keeping:  

• Capture high-quality photographs at every key stage of the assembly process.
• Accurately label and organize photos using our standardized system.
• Upload images to the designated cloud storage platform, Fast Fields—ensuring they are accessible and properly archived.

Collaboration & Communication: 

• Collaborate with the packing and assembly team to ensure QA standards are upheld across departments.
• Assist in maintaining and providing feedback on the documentation protocols and QA processes.
• Communicate clear updates to second-shift management regarding quality issues and updates.
• Deliver and track daily updates for first-shift QA team.

Workflow Management & Improvement: 

• Maintain personal schedule and workflow effectively without direct supervision.
• Provide feedback to help improve overall workflow and quality assurance practices.

Must-Have Skills: 

Hard Skills: 

• Proficiency with cloud storage platforms Fast Fields—SharePoint a plus.
• Basic photography skills (framing, lighting, focus).
• Familiarity with digital cameras or smartphone photography systems like iOS and Android.
• Comfort handling and utilizing basic hand and power tools.
• Experience with basic ERP systems is a plus.
• Ability to corroborate on spreadsheets for documentation purposes.

Soft Skills: 

• Exceptional attention to detail and visual awareness.
• Strong organizational and time management abilities.
• Clear and professional communication skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
• Comfortable giving and receiving constructive feedback.

Qualifications: 

• 1–2 years of experience—including internship or work-study programs—in quality assurance, production support, or process documentation role within a manufacturing, building, or assembly environment.
• Proven track record of:
  • Conducting visual inspections and documenting physical products throughout various stages of production.
  • Capturing, labeling, and organizing images or videos for production, training, or quality tracking purposes.
  • Collaborating with manufacturing and engineering teams to uphold quality standards and identify areas for improvement.
• Experience with small-batch or handcrafted product environments is a plus—especially where precision, consistency, and aesthetic quality are critical.
• Ability to lift and maneuver equipment up to 50 lbs., as needed.
• Interest or background in Pilates, fitness, or craftsmanship a bonus but not required.

Education:  

BS OR AD from an accredited University or College in a related field such as: 

• Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, Quality Assurance, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Industrial Design, or Product Development
• Equivalent professional experience may also be considered.

About Us: 

Gratz Pilates is the original manufacturer of Pilates apparatus and the industry’s trusted source for authentic equipment. Established in 1928 by Frank Gratz in New York City, our company has a long-standing tradition of crafting precision products that blend metal, wood, leather, and upholstery. Our team is dedicated to quality, heritage, and craftsmanship in every product we produce.