Quality Assurance Specialist

Description

 Darwill is a third-generation, family-owned performance-based marketing powerhouse based in the western suburbs of Chicago, IL. Since 1951, we’ve been impressing clients of all sizes and industries with our proven direct marketing solutions.

What’s our secret sauce? We're not just a one-solution marketing company; we're a full-service, dedicated partner! From omnichannel strategies to eye-opening data insights, response-inducing creative, seamless production, and sophisticated reporting tools – we've got it all! We combine digital and print direct response marketing strategies paired with our outbound and inbound contact center services to effectively set appointments on behalf of our clients.

Our Mission: To empower national and local businesses through performance-based marketing by executing complex location-based data-driven campaigns, leading to increased sales, sustainability, and an improved return on investment.

At Darwill, we don't just build marketing campaigns; we create a culture of success and positivity! We value respect, collaboration, empowerment, and giving back to the community. We're a team of spirited individuals working together to redefine client success. Your next chapter begins at Darwill.

Position Summary

The Quality Control Specialist ensures the accuracy, integrity, and compliance of all mailing projects. This role performs thorough inspections of printed materials and finished mail pieces to verify they meet client specifications, USPS regulations, and company quality standards. Working closely with department managers, the Quality Control Specialist identifies and resolves errors, documents inspection results, recommends process improvements, and supports department leaders in delivering scheduled quality assurance training. This position is essential to preventing costly errors, upholding customer satisfaction, and ensuring every mailing is delivered accurately and on time.

Shift: Monday - Friday 10am-6pm

Pay: $17-$19 Hourly

Requirements

 Key Responsibilities

• Check printed materials for errors in content, examples:

1. Mailing Address: Confirm the mailing address is properly structured.
2. Distance: Is the recipient’s address within driving distance of the location.
3. Event Dates: Will the mail piece arrive at home prior to the event start date?
4. Offers: Expiration dates should be in the future/consistent with event dates.
5. Phone Numbers: Formatting and consistent within references on content.
6. Formatting: Proper letter casing of content.

• Confirm compliance with USPS mailing regulations (indicia, barcode placement).
• Inspect first-off press pulls or digital prints for quality (color match, registration, image clarity).
• Monitor insertion and finishing processes to ensure correct pieces are matched and assembled.
• Complete QC checklists and maintain accurate inspection records for each job.
• Identify and document errors, trends, and root causes to help prevent recurrence.
• Work closely with account management, programming and production teams to address issues.
• Suggest process improvements to increase accuracy and efficiency.

Qualifications Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor’s degree preferred.
• 2+ years of quality control, production, or related experience in the mailing, printing, or manufacturing industry preferred.
• Familiarity with USPS regulations, addressing standards, and postal documentation strongly desired.
• Must be proficient reading and writing in English.

Skills & Abilities

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to read and interpret work orders, proofs, and production specifications.
• Comfortable working with mailing data, variable data printing proofs, and QC checklists.
• Proficient in basic computer applications (Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat, or similar).
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to identify process improvements.
• Effective communication skills for working with cross-functional teams.
• ·Ability to work independently and manage time under tight deadlines.

Other Requirements

• Ability to stand or sit for extended periods while inspecting materials.
• Manual dexterity for handling printed pieces and verifying physical samples.
• Willingness to work flexible hours to meet production schedules.

Key Attributes

• Attention to Detail – Maintains high accuracy when reviewing data, proofs, and finished materials.
• Industry Knowledge – Understands USPS regulations, addressing standards, and quality control procedures.
• Analytical Skills – Identifies root causes of errors and proposes effective solutions.
• Communication – Clearly reports findings and collaborates with team members to resolve issues.
• Organization – Manages multiple inspections and deadlines with accuracy and efficiency.
• Process Focus – Adheres to established QC procedures while seeking process improvements.
• Continuous Learning – Keeps up to date with postal regulations and industry best practices.