Collation QC Associate

About the Team

Fanatics Collectibles is a new company operating at the intersection of collectibles, culture, and technology. Backed by world-class investors, operators, and sports & entertainment partners, we are building the global leader in next-generation collectibles. As part of the broader Fanatics ecosystem, we leverage a digital sports platform that spans over 900 sports properties and engages more than 81 million fans. Together, we are reimagining every part of the collectibles experience for fans, partners, and creators.

The Collation Quality Control Associate is responsible for ensuring that every product moving through the manufacturing process meets Fanatics Collectibles' quality standards. This role conducts hands-on inspections of raw materials, in-process production, and finished goods; identifies defects and non-conforming material before it ships; investigates root causes when quality issues arise; and partners closely with Manufacturing Operators, Leads, Engineering, and Maintenance to drive corrective actions and continuous improvement. The Quality Control Specialist is the on-floor advocate for product quality and the bridge between Production and the broader Quality organization.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

Quality Inspection & In-Process Audit:

• Conduct routine inspections of raw materials, in-process production, and finished products to verify conformance to specifications and customer requirements.
• Perform visual, functional, dimensional, and measurement-based inspections using calibrated tools and testing equipment (calipers, micrometers, color/density meters, vision systems).
• Pull samples per inspection plans and conduct first-piece, in-process, and final inspections across production runs.
• Verify production setups before runs begin; release the line to production only when setup meets quality standards.
• Audit operator self-checks and ensure inspection plans are being followed across shifts and machines.

Defect Identification & Root Cause Analysis:

• Identify defects, inconsistencies, and non-conforming materials at the earliest point in the process; isolate suspect material to prevent it moving downstream.
• Document defects with clear descriptions, photos where appropriate, and full traceability — machine, operator, shift, material lot, and time.
• Investigate root causes of recurring quality issues using structured problem-solving (5 Whys, fishbone, Pareto analysis) and drive corrective and preventive actions through to closure.
• Escalate persistent or systemic issues to the Quality Supervisor and Manufacturing leadership; partner on containment when needed.

Process Monitoring & Continuous Improvement:

• Monitor manufacturing processes to ensure adherence to documented procedures, quality standards, and customer specifications.
• Apply Statistical Process Control (SPC) techniques to detect drift and identify process improvement opportunities before defects occur.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on reducing defects, scrap, and rework — propose changes and pilot improvements with Manufacturing.
• Assist in developing, updating, and validating quality control procedures, work instruct