Quality Engineer

Quality Engineer IILocation: Shoreview, MN Reports To: Quality Manager Salary Range: $90,000 – $100,000Position SummaryThe Quality Engineer II is responsible for supporting manufacturing quality, driving structured problem solving, reducing defects, improving customer satisfaction, and strengthening quality systems across the operation. This role partners closely with Operations, Engineering, Supply Chain, and Customer Service to identify root causes, implement corrective actions, and improve overall business performance.This position is ideal for a hands-on manufacturing professional with strong analytical and problem-solving skills who enjoys working on the shop floor and influencing cross-functional teams. The successful candidate will have a passion for continuous improvement, operational excellence, and delivering high-quality products to customers.Key ResponsibilitiesManufacturing QualitySupport daily manufacturing operations by addressing quality issues and driving corrective actions.Analyze quality trends and identify opportunities to reduce defects, scrap, rework, and customer complaints.Lead investigations using structured problem-solving methodologies such as: 8D, A3, 5 Why, Fishbone Analysis, DMAIC.Participate in containment, root cause identification, corrective action implementation, and effectiveness verification.Drive improvements in First Pass Yield (FPY), PPM, and Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ).Quality SystemsSupport maintenance and continuous improvement of the Quality Management System (QMS).Assist with ISO 9001 compliance activities, audits, and corrective actions.Develop and maintain quality procedures, work instructions, inspection plans, and control plans.Support internal and external quality audits.Customer & Supplier QualitySupport resolution of customer complaints and warranty issues.Assist with customer corrective action responses and 8D reports.Work with suppliers to address incoming quality concerns and support supplier corrective actions.Participate in supplier quality improvement activities as required.Continuous ImprovementPartner with Operations and Engineering to improve process capability and reduce variation.Support Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement initiatives.Utilize data analysis and statistical tools to identify improvement opportunities.Participate in kaizen events and process improvement projects.New Product Introduction (NPI)Support quality planning activities for new product launches.Participate in PFMEA reviews, process validation, and manufacturing readiness activities.Assist in development of inspection criteria and process controls.Required QualificationsEducationBachelor's Degree in: Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Quality Engineering, Related Technical Discipline.Experience3–7 years of experience in a manufacturing quality, manufacturing engineering, or continuous improvement role.Experience in industrial manufacturing, machining, assembly, electromechanical products, automotive, or similar manufacturing environments.Experience utilizing structured problem-solving methodologies.Working knowledge of ISO 9001 quality systems.Technical SkillsRoot Cause Analysis8D Problem SolvingStatistical Process Control (SPC)Process Capability AnalysisPFMEAControl PlansBlueprint Reading and GD&TMicrosoft Excel and data analysis toolsPreferred QualificationsCQE certification or actively pursuing certification.Six Sigma Green Belt preferred.Experience with APQP and PPAP methodologies.Experience supporting machining, assembly, fluid handling, pumps, spray equipment, industrial equipment, or automotive manufacturing.Experience in organizations similar to: Graco, Nordson, Donaldson Company, Tennant Company, Parker Hannifin, Eaton.Key CompetenciesProblem SolvingStrong analytical thinkingAbility to identify root causes versus symptomsData-driven decision makingStructured approach to problem resolutionCollaboration & InfluenceWorks effectively across Operations, Engineering, Supply Chain, and Customer ServiceBuilds strong working relationships at all levels of the organizationComfortable facilitating discussions and driving accountabilityContinuous Improvement MindsetPassion for operational excellenceFocus on prevention over detectionDesire to learn and grow professionallyHands-on, action-oriented approachSuccess Measures (First 12 Months)Reduce internal quality defects, scrap, and rework.Improve responsiveness and effectiveness of corrective actions.Strengthen root-cause problem-solving discipline across the operation.Improve customer complaint closure and response times.Support improvements in PPM, FPY, and COPQ metrics.Contribute to successful ISO compliance and audit performance.Become a trusted quality partner to manufacturing operations.Ideal Candidate ProfileA hands-on manufacturing professional with 3–7 years of experience, strong shop-floor presence, and proven problem-solving capability. The ideal candidate is curious, data-driven, and eager to learn—not just a quality auditor or inspector, but someone who enjoys solving problems, working cross-functionally, and helping drive operational excellence.