Senior Automotive Quality Engineer - Component Validation

Placements24; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 97,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

Health benefits

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Automotive Quality Engineer to join a QA team focusing on component validation in Queenstown. You will develop validation plans, run rigorous tests, and collaborate across suppliers and internal teams to address quality issues.

You will drive root-cause analyses, implement 8D actions, and apply APQP/PPAP, FMEA, and SPC/DOE to ensure product excellence in automotive components.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, or related field) or equivalent.
• Minimum 5 years of automotive quality engineering experience focusing on component validation.
• Strong understanding of IATF 16949 requirements.
• Experience with APQP, PPAP, FMEA, and 8D.
• Experience with statistical analysis software and techniques.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and specifications.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience collaborating with suppliers.
• Knowledge of automotive components and failure modes is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage component validation plans and test procedures.
• Conduct testing and analysis of automotive components to ensure specs and customer requirements.
• Use SPC/DOE to monitor and control product quality.
• Collaborate with suppliers to address quality issues and drive corrective actions.
• Perform root cause analysis for non-conforming components and implement actions (8D).
• Participate in NPD projects to integrate quality considerations from start.
• Conduct quality audits of internal processes and external suppliers.
• Maintain quality records, reports, and documentation.
• Stay updated on automotive quality standards and best practices.
• Coordinate with engineering, manufacturing, and purchasing to resolve challenges.

Skills

IATF 16949

APQP/PPAP

FMEA

8D

Statistical analysis

Drawings interpretation

Supplier collaboration

Quality engineering

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

Statistical software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned automotive manufacturing group, is seeking a meticulous and experienced Senior Automotive Quality Engineer to join their robust quality assurance team in Queenstown, Eastern Cape . This vital role will be responsible for ensuring the highest standards of quality for automotive components and systems through rigorous validation processes. You will be instrumental in developing and executing test plans, analyzing results, and working collaboratively with suppliers and internal teams to address any quality issues. The ideal candidate possesses a strong understanding of automotive quality management systems (e.g., IATF 16949), statistical process control, and component validation techniques. This is an excellent opportunity for a dedicated quality professional to make a significant impact on product excellence within the automotive industry in Queenstown .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage comprehensive component validation plans and test procedures.
• Conduct rigorous testing and analysis of automotive components to ensure compliance with specifications, standards, and customer requirements.
• Utilize statistical tools and methodologies (e.g., SPC, DOE) to monitor and control product quality.
• Work closely with suppliers to address component quality issues, drive corrective actions, and ensure supplier compliance.
• Perform root cause analysis for non-conforming components and implement effective preventive and corrective actions (e.g., 8D reports).
• Participate in new product development (NPD) projects to ensure quality considerations are integrated from the outset.
• Conduct quality audits of internal processes and external suppliers.
• Maintain accurate quality records, reports, and documentation.
• Stay updated on automotive quality standards, regulations, and best practices.
• Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, and purchasing teams to resolve quality-related challenges.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, or related field) or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in automotive quality engineering, with a focus on component validation.
• Strong understanding of IATF 16949 quality management system requirements.
• Proficiency in using quality tools and methodologies such as APQP, PPAP, FMEA, and 8D.
• Experience with statistical analysis software and techniques.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and technical standards.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with a keen attention to detail.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience working with suppliers and driving quality improvements.
• Knowledge of various automotive components and their failure modes is advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth.
• This includes a strong base salary, potential performance-based bonuses, and robust health and retirement benefits.
• You will have the opportunity to work in a structured environment focused on maintaining automotive excellence, contributing to the reputation of a leading manufacturer.
• Our client is committed to employee development, providing access to ongoing training and opportunities for career advancement within the quality assurance domain.
• The work environment in Queenstown is professional and team-oriented, fostering a culture of quality and continuous improvement.
• This role offers a stable and rewarding career path in the automotive sector of the Eastern Cape.