Senior Automotive Quality Assurance Engineer

Placements24; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Automotive Quality Assurance Engineer for our Queenstown facility. The role focuses on developing and implementing robust QMS aligned with IATF 16949, conducting audits, and driving continuous quality improvements across manufacturing.

The ideal candidate brings 7+ years of automotive QA experience, strong SPC/FMEA/APQP expertise, and proven leadership and collaboration skills to resolve issues and mentor teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial) or related field.
• Minimum 7 years in quality assurance within automotive manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of QMS, IATF 16949, SPC, FMEA, APQP.
• Experience with CAPA, root-cause analysis, and internal/audits.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain QMS per IATF 16949 and related standards.
• Define QA plans, inspection criteria, testing procedures, and validation processes.
• Conduct internal audits of manufacturing, supplier quality, and product conformance.
• Analyze quality data, identify trends, and implement CAPA actions.
• Utilize SPC to monitor process capability and product consistency.
• Collaborate with manufacturing, engineering, and supply chain to drive improvements.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial)

Tools

SPC tools

QMS (IATF 16949)

FMEA/APQP methods

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a reputable automotive manufacturer, is seeking a dedicated and experienced Senior Automotive Quality Assurance Engineer to join their team in Queenstown, Eastern Cape . This critical role ensures that all automotive products meet the highest standards of quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction. You will be responsible for developing and implementing quality assurance strategies, conducting rigorous inspections and audits, analyzing quality data, and driving continuous improvement initiatives across the manufacturing process. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of quality management systems (QMS), statistical process control (SPC), and automotive industry standards such as IATF 16949. We are looking for a proactive problem-solver with a strong commitment to excellence and a passion for ensuring product integrity. This is an excellent opportunity to play a key role in maintaining and enhancing product quality within a respected automotive organization. Your expertise will be vital in upholding the brand's reputation for excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain the company's Quality Management System (QMS), ensuring compliance with IATF 16949 and other relevant automotive standards.
• Define and execute quality assurance plans, including inspection criteria, testing procedures, and product validation processes.
• Conduct regular internal audits of manufacturing processes, supplier quality, and product conformity.
• Analyze quality data, identify trends, root causes of defects, and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
• Utilize statistical process control (SPC) techniques to monitor and improve process capability and product consistency.
• Collaborate with manufacturing, engineering, and supply chain teams to address quality issues and implement improvement strategies.
• Manage customer complaints and warranty claims related to product quality, ensuring timely resolution.
• Train and mentor junior QA staff and production personnel on quality standards and procedures.
• Prepare quality reports for senior management, highlighting key performance indicators and improvement initiatives.
• Stay up-to-date with industry best practices and emerging trends in automotive quality assurance.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial) or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in quality assurance within the automotive manufacturing industry.
• Proven experience with Quality Management Systems (QMS), particularly IATF 16949.
• Strong understanding and practical application of Statistical Process Control (SPC), FMEA, and APQP methodologies.
• Experience with root cause analysis tools and CAPA processes.
• Proficiency in conducting internal audits and supplier quality assessments.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and leadership abilities.
• Familiarity with inspection tools and techniques.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, along with an annual bonus based on performance. A comprehensive benefits program includes medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and life insurance. Significant opportunities for professional development and career advancement are available through ongoing training and certification programs. We promote a strong team-oriented culture focused on quality and continuous improvement in our Queenstown facility. Join us and play a vital role in ensuring the exceptional quality of our automotive products.