Quality Engineer

Location : Benton, KY

Reports to : Quality Manager

FLSA Status : Exempt

Shift : 1st (with support across shifts as needed)

Purpose

The Quality Engineer is responsible for ensuring product quality through the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of quality systems, processes, and standards. This role provides technical leadership in quality assurance activities, including data analysis, problem-solving, process control, and non-conformance management.

The Quality Engineer serves as the primary link between production, laboratory testing, and the Quality Management System (QMS), ensuring products meet internal specifications and customer requirements while driving continuous improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities

Quality Systems & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with the Quality Management System (QMS), including ISO standards and internal procedures.
• Lead continuous improvement efforts within the QMS to enhance product quality and operational efficiency.
• Develop, review, and maintain quality procedures, work instructions, and test methods.
• Support internal and external audits and ensure corrective actions are implemented effectively.

Process & Product Quality

• Monitor and analyze in-process and finished product quality data to identify trends and areas for improvement.
• Establish and maintain process control methods (SPC, capability analysis, etc.).
• Lead root cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions (CAPA) for product and process nonconformances.
• Work cross-functionally with production, engineering, and suppliers to resolve quality issues.

Testing & Laboratory Oversight

• Oversee testing processes for raw materials, in-process samples, and finished goods.
• Ensure proper calibration, maintenance, and validation of laboratory equipment and measuring devices.
• Provide technical guidance on testing methods, data interpretation, and lab best practices.
• Support special projects, trials, and customer-specific testing requirements.

Non-conformance & Supplier Quality

• Lead investigations into nonconforming materials and finished goods.
• Ensure proper identification, documentation, and disposition of nonconforming product.
• Interface with suppliers regarding quality issues, including review of Certificates of Analysis (COAs) and supplier claims.
• Drive supplier quality improvements and support supplier audits as needed.

Technical Expertise & Continuous Improvement

• Develop and maintain product specifications, standards, and technical documentation.
• Support new product introductions, including validation of materials and processes.
• Analyze quality data to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Provide technical training and mentorship to Quality Technicians and production personnel.

Cross-Functional Support

• Collaborate with production to ensure quality standards are understood and achieved.
• Assist in troubleshooting manufacturing processes related to extrusion, laminating, painting, coating, and finishing.
• Support customer inquiries, complaints, and warranty investigations with data-driven analysis.
• Participate in cross-functional teams to improve safety, quality, and productivity.

EHS & Compliance

• Ensure adherence to all Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) policies and procedures.
• Promote a culture of safety and quality throughout the organization.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Quality, or related technical field required.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of quality or manufacturing experience.
• Strong knowledge of Quality Management Systems (ISO 9001), SPC, and root cause analysis methodologies.
• Experience with lab instrumentation and measurement systems.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint); SAP experience preferred.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to interpret technical specifications and manufacturing processes.
• Must pass color perception testing due to critical visual inspection requirements.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities across different products and processes.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs as needed.
• Required use of PPE (safety shoes, eye protection, hearing protection, etc.).
• Minimal travel may be required.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required for this position. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.