Quality Engineer

Quality EngineerWe are seeking a Quality Engineer for a fully onsite role in Newton, North Carolina. In this position, you ensure that products and processes meet established quality standards and customer expectations while directly interfacing with OEM customers. You develop and maintain quality control systems, monitor production performance, identify defects, and lead continuous improvement initiatives in a highly automated manufacturing environment. The role offers the opportunity to work with advanced automation, robotics, machine vision, and smart manufacturing technologies, driving meaningful improvements that directly impact production, quality, and operational performance.ResponsibilitiesDevelop, implement, and maintain quality assurance and quality control processes to ensure products meet internal and customer requirements.Monitor production operations to verify compliance with quality standards, specifications, and regulatory requirements.Perform detailed root cause analysis of defects and nonconformities, and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) to prevent recurrence.Conduct internal quality audits and support external audits, including customer, regulatory, and IATF audits.Collaborate closely with engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and operations teams to identify, investigate, and resolve quality issues.Analyze quality data and metrics to drive improvement activities that achieve established KPIs such as scrap cost, non-right-first-time (NRFT), and first-time-through (FTT).Lead continuous improvement and value-saving initiatives using methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen.Review engineering designs, drawings, specifications, and design changes to identify potential quality risks and recommend mitigation strategies.Ensure compliance with relevant regulatory and industry standards, including IATF 16949, ISO 9001, and other applicable ISO standards.Train production and engineering staff on quality standards, procedures, tools, and best practices to strengthen the overall quality culture.Lead automation-related quality projects from concept through implementation and optimization, ensuring robust quality controls are integrated into automated systems.Drive quality-focused improvements in advanced automation, robotics, machine vision, and smart manufacturing technologies.Support the creation and maintenance of quality documentation such as control plans, FMEAs, PPAPs, and inspection plans.Interpret and apply GD&T principles to ensure parts and assemblies meet dimensional and geometric requirements.Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives that enhance production performance, reduce defects, and improve operational efficiency.Perform all other duties related to quality engineering and continuous improvement as assigned.Essential SkillsBachelor's degree in Engineering or a related technical field.At least 2 years of experience in quality engineering or quality assurance within a production environment, preferably in automotive manufacturing.Strong knowledge of quality engineering principles and practices, including quality assurance and quality control methodologies.Hands-on experience with IATF 16949 and ISO quality standards, including ISO 9001.Proficiency in corrective and preventive action (CAPA) processes and documentation.Strong GD&T skills with the ability to read and interpret engineering blueprints and technical drawings.Solid understanding and practical use of core quality tools such as FMEA, SPC, control plans, and PPAP.Experience applying root cause analysis techniques, including 5 Whys and Fishbone (Ishikawa) diagrams.Ability to analyze quality data and production metrics to identify trends, issues, and improvement opportunities.Proficiency in data analysis tools such as Excel, Minitab, or similar statistical software.Excellent written and verbal communication skills for interacting with OEM customers and cross-functional teams.Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to tackle complex technical issues in a manufacturing environment.Additional Skills & QualificationsExperience working in an automotive manufacturing environment or with OEM customers.Shainin certification or experience with Shainin problem-solving methodologies.Familiarity with advanced automation, robotics, machine vision, and smart manufacturing technologies.Experience leading automation projects from concept through implementation and optimization.Background in process optimization, manufacturing engineering, or industrial engineering within a production environment.Demonstrated ability to lead continuous improvement and value-saving initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, or Kaizen.Comfort working in cross-functional teams and collaborating with engineering, operations, maintenance, and supply chain.Ability to take ownership of automation systems and quality processes that directly impact production performance.Motivation to solve complex technical challenges and drive measurable improvements in quality and efficiency.Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in managing quality documentation and audit activities.Work EnvironmentThis role is fully onsite in a fast-paced, highly automated manufacturing facility in Newton, North Carolina. You work directly on the production floor and in engineering spaces, balancing hands-on troubleshooting with project execution and continuous improvement initiatives. The environment features advanced automation, robotics, machine vision, and smart manufacturing technologies supporting the future of mobility. You collaborate closely with experienced engineering, operations, maintenance, and supply chain teams in a global manufacturing setting where engineering and quality contributions are recognized and valued. The culture emphasizes teamwork, continuous improvement, data-driven decision-making, and strong career growth opportunities. Typical hours align with standard manufacturing schedules, with flexibility as needed to support production and audit activities. Attire is appropriate for a manufacturing environment, including safety-conscious clothing and any required personal protective equipment.Job Type & LocationThis is a Permanent position based out of Hickory, NC.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $85000.00 - $105000.00/yr.Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans. 401(k) retirement savings plan with company-sponsored retirement benefits. Paid time off and company holidays. Life and disability insurance offerings. Employee assistance and wellness programs. Career development and advancement opportunities within a global manufacturing organization operating in numerous countries and facilities worldwide.Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Hickory, NC.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Aug 28, 2026.