Quality Engineer

HI-LEX North America; Litchfield Township (MI); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

HI-LEX North America located in Litchfield Township, Michigan, is seeking a Quality Engineer responsible for managing customer concerns and developing Quality Plans to ensure adherence to IATF 16949 standards. This role involves coordinating Customer Liaison activities and executing internal audits to optimize product quality and performance.

The ideal candidate exhibits strong skills in continuous improvement, quality management systems, and statistical tools. Join our dedicated team committed to enhancing quality across various sectors.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in ISO 9001 and IATF 16949.
• Expertise in SPC and data interpretation.
• Knowledge of Six Sigma and Lean Manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Manage and resolve customer concerns.
• Develop Quality Plans for 6 sigma manufacturing levels.
• Coordinate activities of Customer Liaisons to maintain quality.

Skills

Continuous improvement (Kaizen)

Corrective and preventive action (CAPA)

Quality control procedures

Risk management

Supplier management

Auditing

Quality Management Systems (ISO 9001, IATF 16949)

Statistical Tools (SPC)

Methodologies (Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing)

Problem-Solving Techniques

Analytical & Critical Thinking

Communication

Teamwork

Attention to Detail

Time Management

Regulatory Standards

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Job description

Founded in 1946, HI-LEX is a leading supplier of window regulators, door modules, power lift gate systems, and mechanical control cables primarily serving the automotive industry, as well as the power sports, marine, construction equipment, and medical device sectors. Headquartered in Takarazuka, Japan (near Osaka) and listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, HI-LEX employs more than 12,000 associates worldwide.

POSITION SUMMARY

Responsible for managing and resolving customer concerns and facilitating irreversible corrective action into manufacturing. Works with Design Engineering to develop Quality Plans that will provide for 6 sigma manufacturing levels. Coordinates the activities and resources of Customer Liaisons, ensuring adherence to processes and procedures to maintain optimum quality during manufacturing and to establish and adhere to IATF 16949 standards. Other related tasks are assigned by management.

KEY ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Advanced Quality Planning (AQP) for new programs for a group of specified customers.
• Technical support to QA staff and manufacturing.
• Aid in the establishment of IATF 16949 standards.
• Perform system audits to verify adherence to IATF 16949 standards.
• Interface with all departments and suppliers to optimize quality.
• Review supplier parts/documents for PPAP approval.
• Promote continuous improvement atmosphere.
• Promote an associate relations environment that is consistent with long‑term management objectives.
• Prepare PPAP documentation and other correspondence to customers.
• Review all corrective actions (internal and external) for verification of problem resolution.
• Aid in the evaluation of all deviation requests.

QUALIFICATIONS

Core Competencies

• Continuous improvement (Kaizen): constantly seek ways to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and prevent future problems.
• Corrective and preventive action (CAPA): identify nonconformities and implement effective plans.
• Quality control procedures: develop, implement, and monitor inspection, testing, and evaluation methods.
• Risk management: identify, evaluate, and mitigate risks in a process or product.
• Supplier management: work with suppliers to ensure quality of raw materials and components.
• Auditing: conduct both internal and external audits to ensure compliance with quality standards.

Required Skills

• Quality Management Systems: proficiency with ISO 9001 and IATF 16949.
• Statistical Tools: expertise in SPC and other analytical methods to gather and interpret data.
• Methodologies: knowledge of Six Sigma and Lean Manufacturing.
• Problem‑Solving Techniques: strong root cause analysis and corrective action planning.
• Analytical & Critical Thinking: analyze complex data and evaluate processes.
• Communication: clearly communicate technical information, findings, and new processes.
• Teamwork: collaborate with R&D, production, and suppliers.
• Attention to Detail: meticulous approach to inspections and data.
• Time Management: plan and prioritize multiple complex tasks.
• Regulatory Standards: understand and adhere to specific quality and safety standards.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration: work with different functions for overall product and process quality.

Other Requirements

• Recommend procedures and budget for quality engineering areas.
• Ensure quality customer files are current to IATF 16949 requirements.
• Perform internal audits as necessary.
• Work Saturdays if required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Sometimes lift, carry or move objects up to 25 pounds, occasionally over 60 pounds.
• Office environment with noise from computer peripherals such as mainframe, disk drives and test equipment.
• Factory environment with noise from manufacturing equipment.
• Exposure to dangerous equipment.
• Possible serious injury due to carelessness around equipment.
• Spend time in travel between customers.
• Sometimes lift, carry or move objects – up to 50 pounds.