Quality Engineer I

Position Overview

The Quality Engineer plays a critical role in ensuring quality control throughout the manufacturing process. Responsible for leading quality initiatives, training personnel, implementing quality systems, and driving continuous improvements, this role supports domestic and international standards. The candidate will work closely with cross‐functional teams and advance into higher responsibilities over time. Travel Required: Less than 15%. Hours: Regular 40-hour workweek; overtime as needed. Working Conditions: Office and manufacturing floor environment with required PPE and occasional manual lifting.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead quality-related kaizen events and actively participate in Performance Improvement Team (PIT) activities.
• Train production personnel on manufacturing processes, ensuring proper gauge usage, timely data recording, and adherence to quality standards.
• Implement quality systems proactively by utilizing core tools, QAC, and by driving new product development quality control.
• Develop error-proof (Poka-yoke) processes, audit quality management systems (e.g., control plans, PPAP, FMEA), and oversee vendor inspection procedures.
• Manage and monitor supplier quality, including in-process and end-of-line testing and calibration programs.
• Lead field report (FR) and corrective action plan (CAP) investigations; perform root-cause analyses and implement corrective actions.
• Drive continuous improvement by developing lean manufacturing best practices, supporting 5S initiatives, and promoting visual management and standard work.
• Occasionally supervise production personnel in the absence of production supervisory staff.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to track and improve First Pass Yield and overall quality performance.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in quality, manufacturing, or a related field; or four to six years’ equivalent experience.
• Ability to develop into a Level II and III role within three years through a skills development plan.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with effective verbal, written, and interpersonal communication.
• Proficient in blueprint reading and familiar with quality core tools.

Preferred Qualifications

• Three to five years’ experience in quality-related work within a manufacturing environment.
• Understanding of core tools such as Control Plans, APQP, SPC, PPAP, FMEA, and MSA.
• Experience with nationally recognized testing laboratories such as UL and familiarity with union workforce dynamics.
• Background in sheet metal manufacturing, welding, powder coating, and electrical/electronic assembly is a plus.

Benefits & Perks

• Stable Schedule: Regular 40-hour workweek with overtime as needed.
• Work Environment: Combination of office and manufacturing plant floor with necessary safety equipment.
• Professional Growth: Opportunity to develop into higher-level roles with a structured skills development plan.