Manufacturing Quality Engineer

The Davis Companies; Augusta (GA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The Davis Companies Inc. in Augusta, GA is seeking a Manufacturing Quality Engineer to lead quality-centric improvements across assigned value streams.

You will coach teams, drive defect reduction, and apply data-driven problem solving to elevate safety, quality and productivity. You will manage a team of Manufacturing Quality Technicians, implement robust countermeasures for root causes, and ensure compliance with ISO 9001/IATF 16949.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or a related technical field is required.
• 6+ years of quality experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience leading and coaching direct reports.
• Working knowledge of ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 quality management systems.
• Understanding of Lean principles, Six Sigma and structured problem-solving methods.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and design specifications for quality conformance.
• Understanding of general manufacturing best practices, fabrication operations and equipment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and timekeeping software.

Responsibilities

• Lead product quality improvements that eliminate waste and support organizational goals.
• Serve as a subject matter expert and coach on structured problem-solving tools such as 5 Why, 9‑Step and A3.
• Implement process improvements that raise safety, quality and productivity and build a customer-focused culture across departments.
• Manage and lead a team of Manufacturing Quality Technicians (direct reports).
• Develop strong countermeasures for root causes, with a focus on defect reduction and prevention.
• Analyze quality data and apply critical thinking to drive continuous improvement.
• Facilitate root cause analysis and explain systemic quality issues to cross-functional teams, including Quality, Design, Engineering, Customer Service and Management.
• Drive quality system compliance in partnership with Manufacturing and support groups.
• Achieve Manufacturing Quality goals measured by KPIs and business initiatives.
• Maintain document control by updating Work Instructions, Quality System Procedures and Standard Work.
• Serve as project manager for assigned quality projects.

Skills

Quality leadership

Problem solving

Lean Six Sigma

Data analysis

Team coaching

Read drawings

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering or related technical field

Tools

MS Office

Timekeeping software

Job description

We are seeking a Manufacturing Quality Engineer to support Operations in all quality-related activities across assigned value streams. This role leads continuous improvement efforts by providing support with processes, standards, training, problem solving and data analysis. The ideal candidate is a hands-on quality leader who coaches others, drives defect reduction and works well with teams at every level.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• - Lead product quality improvements that eliminate waste and support organizational goals
• - Serve as a subject matter expert and coach on structured problem-solving tools such as 5 Why, 9‑Step and A3
• - Implement process improvements that raise safety, quality and productivity and build a customer-focused culture across departments
• - Manage and lead a team of Manufacturing Quality Technicians (direct reports)
• - Develop strong countermeasures for root causes, with a focus on defect reduction and prevention
• - Analyze quality data and apply critical thinking to drive continuous improvement
• - Facilitate root cause analysis and explain systemic quality issues to cross-functional teams, including Quality, Design, Engineering, Customer Service and Management
• - Drive quality system compliance in partnership with Manufacturing and support groups
• - Achieve Manufacturing Quality goals measured by key performance indicators (KPIs) and business initiatives
• - Maintain document control by updating Work Instructions, Quality System Procedures and Standard Work
• - Serve as project manager for assigned quality projects

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• - Bachelor's degree in engineering or a related technical field, or equivalent
• - 6+ years of quality experience in a manufacturing environment
• - Experience leading and coaching direct reports
• - Working knowledge of ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 quality management systems
• - Understanding of Lean principles, Six Sigma and structured problem-solving methods
• - Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and design specifications for quality conformance
• - Understanding of general manufacturing best practices, fabrication operations and equipment
• - Proficiency with Microsoft Office and timekeeping software

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• - ASQ certification (such as CQE) or similar
• - Six Sigma certification (any level)
• - Experience with consumer products and high-volume Lean manufacturing

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• - Strong analytical, planning and project management skills
• - Clear, structured approach to defining problems, collecting data and drawing valid conclusions using Lean and Operational Excellence methods
• - Ability to complete major projects with minimal supervision
• - Ability to make timely decisions under pressure
• - Strong leadership and motivational skills, with the ability to drive issues to closure
• - Ability to integrate business, manufacturing and technical considerations
• - Excellent written and verbal communication with all levels of the organization and external partners

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• - Frequent walking and standing, with periodic stooping and bending
• - Occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds
• - Work around moving parts, machinery and vehicles, which requires following safety precautions
• - Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required