Lead Quality Engineer

Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc.; West Lafayette (IN); On-site; USD 108,000 - 162,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee ownership (ESOP)

Excellent benefits

Paid holidays and vacation

Job summary

Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc. in West Lafayette, IN, is seeking a Lead Quality Engineer to guide quality across the product lifecycle, mentor engineers, and drive continuous improvement in critical infrastructure products.

You will lead data-driven testing, root-cause analysis, and cross-functional collaboration, implementing robust quality systems while fostering a culture of excellence and safety in power systems worldwide.

Qualifications

• B.S. degree in Engineering, Math, Statistics, or related technical field.
• Typically 6+ years of experience in quality engineering, process improvement, or data analytics.
• Strong project management and problem-solving skills.
• Experience using metrology and statistical methods.
• Knowledge of quality tools and process improvement techniques (FMEA, Six Sigma, PDCA, Lean Manufacturing, Control Charts, Histograms, Pareto).
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 and reliability concepts.

Responsibilities

• Lead quality initiatives across the product lifecycle.
• Design and implement tests to monitor quality using engineering principles.
• Acquire and analyse data to facilitate process improvements.
• Lead stakeholders in understanding problems and investigating root causes.
• Mentor engineers and cross-functional teams to implement effective solutions.
• Provide technical leadership for process improvement projects.

Skills

Quality engineering

Data analytics

Project management

Root cause analysis

Statistical methods

Metrology

Lean / Six Sigma

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field

Tools

FMEA

Six Sigma

PDCA

Control charts

Histograms

Pareto

Job description

Join a team that powers the future of electric power systems. As a Lead Quality Engineer at SEL, you will play a critical role in ensuring the reliability, safety, and excellence of innovative products that protect and automate critical infrastructure around the world. You will lead quality initiatives across the product lifecycle, partnering with engineering, manufacturing, and operations teams to drive continuous improvement, solve complex technical challenges, and deliver world‑class solutions to customers. In this leadership role, you will champion quality culture through data‑driven decision making, risk management, root cause analysis, and process optimisation. You will mentor engineers, influence cross‑functional teams, and implement robust quality systems that enhance product performance and customer satisfaction. The ideal candidate combines strong technical expertise with a passion for continuous improvement, exceptional problem‑solving skills, and the ability to inspire teams to achieve operational excellence. This is an opportunity to make a lasting impact at a mission‑driven company known for innovation, integrity, and its commitment to creating a safer, more reliable electric grid. If you thrive on leading change, driving quality excellence, and developing high‑performing teams, this role offers the chance to advance both your career and the future of power system technology.

As a Lead Quality Engineeer, a typical day in this role may include: Lead, plan, design, and implement tests to monitor quality using engineering principles. Acquire and analyse data using standard quantitative methods to facilitate process analysis and improvements. Lead stakeholders in understanding problems and investigating root cause; serve as a technical advisor. Guide and mentor stakeholders to ensure the implementation of effective solutions to prevent recurrence. Lead cross-functional meetings to address quality issues and brainstorm solutions. Provide technical leadership for process improvement projects. Model, teach and apply SEL Values, Principles of Operations, and World Class Manufacturing Principles.

Required Qualifications

• B.S. degree in Engineering, Math, Statistics, or other technical degree, or equivalent experience
• Typically, 6+ years of experience in quality engineering, process improvement, or data analytics
• Strong project management and problem-solving skills
• Experience using metrology and statistical methods
• Knowledge of quality tools and process improvement techniques (FMEA, Six Sigma, PDCA, Lean Manufacturing (WCM), Control Charts, Histograms, Pareto)
• Knowledge of applicable industry standards with understanding of probability/reliability concepts

Preferred Qualifications

• ASQ Certified Quality Engineer or equivalent certification
• Knowledge of ISO 9001
• Knowledge of design, manufacturing, and service processes

Location:

West Lafayette, IN – This position is located in West Lafayette, IN, a welcoming community that combines small-town charm with the energy of world‑class university town. Home to Purdue University, the area is known for its innovation, strong schools, and vibrant community. Residents enjoy parks and outdoor recreation, local events, diverse dining options, and an affordable cost of living, all while being conveniently located within driving distance of Indianapolis and Chicago.

Competitive pay. Superior benefits. Inspiring work. People are at the core of our company and we hire employee‑owners. We welcome you to learn more about how we support employees. We’re 100% employee owned. Retirement benefits include an employer funded stock ownership plan (ESOP) and personal 401(k) options. We offer top tier medical, prescription, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance. We recognize the importance of a healthy life balance and offer: 10 paid holidays, annual vacation accrual starting at 12 days, 9 paid sick days, and paid family and medical leave that covers 90% of your pay. We foster growth and development of our employees through avenues such as STEM courses, apprenticeships, tuition assistance, and engineering development programs. Ask our team about other benefits including wellness, fertility, adoption, and flexible spending benefits.

Pay Range Data:

$107,600 - $161,500 We set starting pay based on job‑related factors such as your experience, training, knowledge, and skills. We are looking to fill this position at the Lead Quality Engineer level, and we welcome applicants with a range of experience. Depending on your background, we may consider you for a different level, with compensation aligned accordingly.

Communication with Applicants We communicate with all applicants.

SEL is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Vets/Disabled. SEL invents, designs, and builds digital products and systems that protect power grids around the world. This technology prevents blackouts and enables customers to improve power system reliability and safety at a reduced cost. A 100 percent employee‑owned company headquartered in Pullman, Washington, SEL has manufactured products in the United States since 1984 and now serves customers worldwide. Our mission is simple: to make electric power safer, more reliable, and more economical.