Quality Process Engineer

Description

Position Summary 

The Quality Process Engineer (QPE) is a technical leader in the organization, serving as a critical bridge between quality assurance, advanced manufacturing engineering, and production. While maintaining core quality standards, this role dives deep into process characterization, statistical optimization, and continuous improvement.

This position defines the technical direction for process improvements that impact quality performance, providing statistical analysis, designing and executing Design of Experiments (DoE), leading engineering trials, and performing rigorous Measurement Systems Analysis (MSA) to ensure continuous production of products consistent with established standards and operational excellence.

Essential Functions

 · Engineering Trials & Process Optimization: Plan, execute, and document formal engineering trials to validate new processes, tooling changes, or material variations. Monitor and evaluate manufacturing lines to reduce scrap and improve efficiency.

· Design of Experiments (DoE) & Statistical Analysis: Design and execute DoEs to identify key process variables, optimize operating parameters, and solve chronic quality issues using statistical software (e.g., Minitab, JMP).

· Measurement Systems Analysis (MSA): Develop, lead, and maintain MSA programs (including Gage R&R studies) to ensure accuracy, repeatability, and reliability across all inspection and test equipment.

· Statistical Process Control (SPC): Implement and analyze SPC charts and CP/CPK metrics to monitor process stability and capability, driving proactive quality improvements.

· Root Cause Analysis & Corrective Actions: Conduct root cause failure analysis (RCFA) and lead structured problem-solving investigations (8D, Fishbone, 5 Why) for internal non-conformances and customer/RMA issues.

· Advanced Quality Planning (APQP / PPAP): Collaborate with engineering and production teams during New Product Introduction (NPI) to establish robust control plans, PFMEAs, and qualification runs.

· Quality Standards & Compliance: Support quality management system standards (ISO 9001 / IATF 16949) and assist in training plant personnel on test methods, procedures, and quality ideologies.

·  Customer & Cross-Functional Interface: Support technical quality discussions, work alongside account managers when needed, and communicate effectively across all levels of the HTN organization 

Requirements

Education, Experience, And Skill Required 

· Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical discipline required.

· Experience: Minimum of 3 to 5 years of manufacturing and engineering experience required, preferably in a high-speed, precision, or deep draw manufacturing environment.

· Advanced Technical Competencies: Proven ability to independently plan and execute Design of Experiments (DoE), Measurement Systems Analysis (MSA / Gage R&R), and formal Engineering Trials.

· Quality Core Tools: Knowledgeable of APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans, SPC, Root Cause Failure Analysis, DMAIC, and 8D methodologies.

· Software Proficiency: Experience with Mini-Tab, JMP, or equivalent statistical software, alongside strong computer skills (Work, Excel, etc.).

· Technical Interpretation: Ability to interpret engineering prints, instructions, GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing), and metrology methods.

· Standards & Regulations: Experience working in an ISO 9001 or IATF 16949 environment (automotive quality procedures preferred).

· Communication & Soft Skills: Strong presentation, oral, and written communication skills. Ability to train, instruct, and transfer technical knowledge, communicating effectively across all levels of management, operations, and global H&T locations.

Other Responsibilities 

· Other duties as assigned

 
Physical Responsibilities  

· Regularly required to stand, reach with hands and arms, and walk.

· Employee is constantly required to sit, use hands to finger, handle, or feel.

· Ability to communicate, listen, and lift up to 35 lbs. occasionally.

· Close vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus to set up inspection equipment and perform precision testing.

· Ability to work in a manufacturing and office environment with moderate noise levels and occasional exposure to mechanical parts.