The Quality Process Engineer finds and removes the root causes of defects in extrusion, finishing, thermal barrier and fabrication. This engineer builds the control plans, inspection criteria and process data that keep good parts coming off the line, and is a technical quality contact for assigned customers.
Key responsibilities- Develop and maintain process flow diagrams, PFMEAs, control plans, inspection instructions and SOPs.
- Analyze scrap, reject and process data (SPC, Pareto, capability studies) and lead projects that reduce defects and cost of poor quality.
- Lead root-cause investigations (8D, 5-Why, fishbone) on internal and customer issues and verify corrective actions are effective.
- Monitor dimensional and visual conformance of extrusions; create boundary samples, visual aids and acceptance criteria with Operations.
- Support new die trials and first-article approvals; provide input on extrusion-specific fixtures and gauges.
- Work with Finishing on paint and anodize process control (film thickness, adhesion, color, gloss) and with Thermal Barrier on strut and shear-strength performance.
- Run gauge R&R / MSA studies and support the calibration program.
- Act as the quality contact for assigned customers: specifications, PPAP or first-article packages where required, and customer-specific requirements.
- Train operators and technicians on quality tools and customer requirements.
- Support internal and external audits and QMS maintenance.
Required
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Materials or Industrial Engineering, or related field.
- 3+ years of quality or process engineering experience in manufacturing.
- Hands-on use of SPC, FMEA, control plans and structured problem solving.
- Print reading and GD&T; comfortable with measurement tools and data analysis in Excel or Minitab.
- Working knowledge of ISO 9001.
Preferred
- Aluminum extrusion, metal fabrication or extrusion finishing experience.
- Automotive core tools (APQP, PPAP) and IATF 16949 exposure.
- ASQ CQE (or in progress), internal auditor or Six Sigma Green Belt.
Roughly half on the production floor and half at a desk; exposure to heat, noise and moving equipment with required PPE. Occasional off-shift support during trials or customer issues.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Materials, Industrial Engineering, or a related field
- 3+ years of quality or process engineering experience in manufacturing
- Hands-on experience with SPC, FMEA, control plans, and structured problem solving
- Print reading and GD&T experience
- Comfort using measurement tools and analyzing data in Excel or Minitab
- Working knowledge of ISO 9001
- Experience with aluminum extrusion, metal fabrication, or extrusion finishing
- Automotive core tools experience, including APQP and PPAP, and exposure to IATF 16949
- ASQ CQE certification or progress toward certification
- Internal auditor experience
- Six Sigma Green Belt
What We Do
Astro Shapes LLC is a Struthers, Ohio-based manufacturer of custom aluminum extrusions. The company delivers end-to-end solutions from concept through completion, using advanced technology and full-service capabilities to produce intricate shapes for diverse markets. Its operations emphasize product quality, on-time performance, engineering, and customer service. Astro Shapes also invests in workforce development and continuous improvement to support long-term organizational and customer success.
