Job Title: Quality Control Engineer

Job Summary:

We are seeking a Senior Quality Control Engineer with extensive experience in the automotive industry to lead quality assurance initiatives and ensure compliance with industry standards. The ideal candidate will be responsible for overseeing quality control processes, conducting high-level inspections, managing supplier quality, and driving continuous improvement projects. This role requires strong leadership, technical expertise, and problem-solving skills to enhance product quality, minimize defects, and optimize manufacturing efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

Quality Assurance & Compliance:

• Ensure adherence to IATF 16949, ISO 9001, VDA 6.3, and OEM-specific quality standards.
• Lead and coordinate internal, customer, and third-party audits, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Establish and maintain Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) and Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) documentation.

Inspection & Testing:

• Oversee first article inspections (FAI), in-process checks, and final product validation.
• Implement and optimize statistical process control (SPC) and measurement system analysis (MSA) methodologies.
• Ensure accurate use of coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), optical measuring systems, hardness testers, and other precision instruments.

Problem Solving & Corrective Actions:

• Investigate and resolve complex quality issues using advanced root cause analysis tools such as 8D, 5-Why, and Ishikawa (Fishbone) Diagrams.
• Lead and manage Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA) to eliminate recurring defects and process inefficiencies.
• Collaborate with engineering, production, and supplier teams to ensure long-term quality improvements.

Process Improvement & Continuous Enhancement:

• Drive Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Kaizen initiatives to enhance product quality and reduce waste.
• Develop and implement Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and Control Plans to proactively prevent defects.
• Monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) such as PPM (Parts Per Million), First Pass Yield, Scrap Rate, and Warranty Claims to drive data-driven improvements.

Supplier & Customer Quality Management:

• Work closely with suppliers to enhance incoming material quality and ensure supplier development.
• Conduct supplier audits and performance evaluations, ensuring compliance with automotive quality standards.
• Address customer complaints and warranty issues, implementing corrective actions and improving customer satisfaction.

Documentation & Reporting:

• Maintain detailed records of quality inspections, audits, and process improvements.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for senior management, customers, and regulatory bodies.
• Ensure all documentation is updated, accessible, and aligned with company and industry standards.

Leadership & Mentoring:

• Mentor and guide junior and mid-level quality engineers, fostering a culture of quality excellence.
• Provide training on quality tools, defect analysis, and process improvements for cross-functional teams.
• Act as a key point of contact for quality-related matters with senior management, suppliers, and customers.

Key Focus Areas:

• Automotive Quality Standards Compliance – Maintain adherence to IATF 16949, ISO 9001, and customer-specific requirements.
• Advanced Problem-Solving & CAPA Management – Use 8D, 5-Why, and FMEA to drive defect resolution and prevention.
• Continuous Process Improvement – Lead Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen initiatives to optimize manufacturing quality.
• Supplier & Customer Quality Management – Ensure high standards across supply chain and customer deliverables.
• Leadership & Team Development – Mentor engineers and collaborate across departments to enhance quality culture.

Qualifications and Skills:

Educational Requirements:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.

Experience:

• 8+ years of experience in quality control, quality assurance, or manufacturing quality in the automotive industry.
• Proven experience in Tier 1 or Tier 2 automotive suppliers or OEMs.
• Strong background in APQP, PPAP, FMEA, MSA, and SPC methodologies.

Technical Expertise:

• Advanced knowledge of automotive manufacturing processes (e.g., stamping, injection molding, welding, machining, assembly).
• Hands-on experience with CMM, optical measuring systems, and GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing).
• Familiarity with warranty analysis, reliability testing, and failure analysis techniques.

Skills & Abilities:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to handle complex quality issues.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to identify process inefficiencies.
• Effective communication and leadership skills for working with cross-functional teams, suppliers, and customers.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet strict deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Certifications (Optional but Beneficial):

• Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) – ASQ
• Six Sigma Black Belt or Green Belt
• IATF 16949 Lead Auditor Certification
• VDA 6.3 Process Auditor Certification
• Certified Automotive Quality Management (CAQM)