Quality Engineer - ABC Technologies (USA Region)
Grand Rapids, MI
About the Job
ABC Technologies is a leading global manufacturer and supplier of custom, highly engineered, technical plastics, and light-weight innovations to the North American light vehicle industry. Serving more than 25 major original equipment manufacturer customers in 7 countries, the Company is Molding The Future and is strategically placed to offer vertically integrated product and process solutions through a skilled workforce of over 11,000 team members. Additional information about the Company can be found at www.abctechnologies.com.
Job Summary:
The Quality Engineer is responsible for ensuring the highest standards of quality in the production of plastic automotive components. This role involves implementing and maintaining quality systems, resolving quality issues, and driving continuous improvement initiatives to meet industry standards, regulatory requirements, and customer expectations. The ideal candidate will leverage their expertise in quality assurance, root cause analysis, and process optimization to ensure product reliability, customer satisfaction, and compliance with automotive quality standards. This position is key in fostering a culture of quality and collaboration across the organization.
Job Responsibilities:
1. Quality Systems Development and Maintenance
- Develop, implement, and maintain quality assurance processes, systems, and documentation to ensure compliance with industry standards
- Creat and update quality documentation such as control plans, inspection criteria, FMEAs, and work instructions
- Ensure alignment of quality processes with customer-specific requirements and internal goals
2. Product and process inspection
- Oversee inspections and testing of raw materials, in-process production, and finished goods to verify compliance with quality specifications
- Implement and monitor SPC to maintain consistent product quality
- Conduct final product audits and ensure defect-free deliveries to customers
3. Root cause analysis and problem resolution
- Investigate quality issues, including customer complaints , non-conformances, and internal production defects
- Lead root cause analysis using tools such as 8D, 5-why, and Fishbone diagrams to identify and preventative actions
- Monitor the effectiveness of corrective actions to ensure sustained improvement
4. Customer and supplier collaboration
- Work directly with customers to understand quality requirements, address concerns, and resolve complaints
- Partner with suppliers to ensure incoming materials meet required standards, including conducting suppliers audits and evaluations
- Serve as the primary point of contact for customer and supplier quality issues
5. Compliance and regulatory adherence
- Ensure compliance with automotive quality standards, safety, and environmental requirements
- Support internal and external audits
- Proactively identify and address compliance risks
6. Continuous improvement initiatives
- Analyze production processes to identify and implement improvements in quality, efficiency, and waste reduction
- Apply lean manufacturing principles, six sigma, and advanced quality tools to enhance processes
- Drive cost-saving initiatives while maintaining product reliability and performance
7. Training and knowledge sharing
- Train production staff and teams on quality standards, inspection methods, and best practices
- Collaborate with engineering and production teams to ensure manufacturability and quality are prioritized during design and production phases
- Promote a culture of quality, safety, and continuous improvement
8. Data analysis and reporting
- Collect, analyze, and interpret quality data to track KPIs and identify trends
- Provide detailed reports and recommendations to management
- Use data-driven insights to drive proactive improvements
Job Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field
- 3-5 years of experience in quality engineering, preferably in the plastics automotive industry
- Proficiency in quality tools and methodologies, including, APQP, PPAP, FMEA, SPC, and MSA
- Knowledge of injection molding / blow molding processes and material properties for plastic
- Experience with QMS and ERP software
- Strong problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills
Competencies:
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with customers, suppliers, and internal teams
- Attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects in a fast-pace environment
- Knowledge of GD&T and blueprint
- Certification in six sigma or CQE is a plus
Why ABC?
In addition to a workplace that emphasizes respect, teamwork and personal and professional growth, ABC Technologies offers a broad range of health, wellness and financial benefits that promote the physical, mental and financial wellbeing of our employees and help them bring their best self to work, including:
- Competitive compensation package
- Employee Group Benefits
- Retirement Saving Program (401K)
- Educational Assistance Program
- Home, Auto and Pet Insurance
- Vehicle Purchase Discounts
- Employee and Family Assistance Program
- Annual increases in PTO
- Internal job opportunities
- Social events throughout the year