Lead Automotive Quality Assurance Engineer

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare

Annual leave

Pension plan

Relocation assistance

Training & development

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking a Lead Automotive Quality Assurance Engineer to oversee quality across vehicle production lines. You will lead a QA team, implement rigorous testing protocols, and collaborate with R&D, engineering, and production to ensure safety, performance, and reliability of all vehicles.

The role demands a mechanical or automotive engineering background, 8+ years in QA within automotive manufacturing, and strong leadership and analytical skills to drive

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related technical discipline.
• 8+ years in quality assurance within automotive manufacturing, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• In-depth knowledge of quality management systems, SPC, and root cause analysis techniques (8D, FMEA).
• Experience with automotive testing methodologies and equipment.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• CQE or equivalent certification is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the automotive quality assurance team, providing guidance, training, and performance evaluations.
• Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive quality control plans and procedures for all stages of automotive production.
• Conduct regular quality audits and inspections of manufacturing processes, components, and finished vehicles.
• Analyze quality data, identify trends, and implement corrective and preventive actions to address non-conformities.
• Collaborate with R&D, engineering, and production teams to resolve quality issues and ensure product integrity.
• Manage supplier quality to ensure incoming components meet specified standards.
• Oversee the testing and validation of new vehicle models and features prior to launch.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant industry standards and regulations (e.g., ISO/TS 16949).
• Champion a culture of quality throughout the organization, promoting best practices and continuous improvement.

Skills

Leadership

QA Management

SPC

FMEA

8D

CQE

Root Cause Analysis

Quality Software

Interpersonal skills

Automotive testing

Education

Bachelors in Mechanical Eng

Bachelors in Automotive Eng

Tools

Minitab

QM Software

SPC tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading name in the automotive sector, is looking for an experienced Lead Automotive Quality Assurance Engineer to oversee and elevate the quality standards of their vehicle production processes at their Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA facility. This pivotal role requires a meticulous individual with a deep understanding of automotive manufacturing and robust quality management systems. You will lead a team of QA professionals, implement rigorous testing protocols, and collaborate closely with production and engineering departments to ensure all vehicles meet the highest benchmarks for safety, performance, and reliability. This is a hands‑on leadership position focused on driving continuous improvement and maintaining the company's reputation for excellence in the competitive automotive market. Your expertise will be instrumental in ensuring flawless product delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the automotive quality assurance team, providing guidance, training, and performance evaluations.
• Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive quality control plans and procedures for all stages of automotive production.
• Conduct regular quality audits and inspections of manufacturing processes, components, and finished vehicles.
• Analyze quality data, identify trends, and implement corrective and preventive actions to address non-conformities.
• Collaborate with R&D, engineering, and production teams to resolve quality issues and ensure product integrity.
• Manage supplier quality to ensure incoming components meet specified standards.
• Oversee the testing and validation of new vehicle models and features prior to launch.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant industry standards and regulations (e.g., ISO/TS 16949).
• Champion a culture of quality throughout the organization, promoting best practices and continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in quality assurance within the automotive manufacturing industry, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• In-depth knowledge of quality management systems, statistical process control (SPC), and root cause analysis techniques (e.g., 8D, FMEA).
• Experience with automotive testing methodologies and equipment.
• Strong understanding of automotive manufacturing processes and components.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in quality management software and tools.
• Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) or equivalent certification is a plus.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

Benefits

• Attractive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive healthcare benefits including medical, dental, and vision.
• Generous annual leave and public holidays.
• Opportunities for career advancement and professional development.
• Pension fund and life insurance.
• Relocation assistance may be available.
• Access to advanced manufacturing technologies and training.
• A stable and reputable employer in the automotive industry.