Senior Automotive Quality Assurance Engineer

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical and dental coverage

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, seeks an experienced Senior Automotive Quality Assurance Engineer to lead quality systems across the plant, from raw materials to finished goods.

You will implement IATF 16949, lead audits and CAPA, develop SPC programs, and collaborate with production, engineering and supply chain to drive continuous improvement and product integrity.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, or related) or equivalent.
• Minimum 5 years in Quality Assurance/Quality Control in automotive manufacturing.
• Proven knowledge of IATF 16949 and quality methodologies (SPC, FMEA, APQP, PPAP, 8D).
• Experience conducting internal and supplier audits.
• Strong analytical, communication, and reporting skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain QMS per IATF 16949 and automotive standards.
• Plan and conduct internal and supplier audits.
• Manage non-conformance with RCA, CAPA, and preventive actions.
• Develop and implement SPC programs.
• Collaborate with engineering and production during APQP to ensure design quality.
• Oversee testing and validation to meet specifications.
• Manage customer complaints and warranty investigations.
• Train junior QA staff and production on standards and procedures.
• Prepare quality performance reports for senior management.

Skills

Quality assurance

IATF 16949

SPC

APQP

PPAP

8D

Root cause analysis

Audits

Analytical skills

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

Quality management software

MS Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a respected automotive component manufacturer, is seeking an experienced Senior Automotive Quality Assurance Engineer to join their dedicated team in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. This role is a hybrid position, requiring regular attendance at our facility while offering flexibility for remote work. You will be responsible for ensuring the highest standards of quality across all manufactured automotive parts, from raw materials to finished goods. This involves developing, implementing, and managing robust quality control systems, processes, and procedures. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of automotive quality standards (e.g., IATF 16949), statistical process control (SPC), and various quality management tools. You will lead quality initiatives, conduct audits, manage non-conformance, and collaborate closely with production, engineering, and supply chain teams to drive continuous improvement and maintain product integrity. Your expertise will be crucial in upholding our client's reputation for excellence and reliability.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive quality management systems (QMS) in accordance with IATF 16949 and other relevant automotive standards.
• Plan and conduct internal and external quality audits (supplier audits) to ensure compliance and identify areas for improvement.
• Manage the non-conformance process, including root cause analysis (RCA), corrective actions (CAPA), and preventive actions.
• Develop and implement Statistical Process Control (SPC) programs to monitor and control production processes.
• Analyze quality data, identify trends, and implement data-driven solutions to improve product quality and reduce defects.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams during product development phases (APQP) to ensure design quality and manufacturability.
• Oversee product testing and validation processes, ensuring products meet specifications and customer requirements.
• Manage customer complaints and warranty claims, conducting thorough investigations and implementing effective resolutions.
• Train and mentor junior quality assurance staff and production personnel on quality standards and procedures.
• Prepare and present quality performance reports to senior management.
• Stay current with evolving automotive quality standards and industry best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, or related field), or equivalent practical experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in Quality Assurance or Quality Control within the automotive manufacturing industry.
• In-depth knowledge and practical application of IATF 16949 standards.
• Proven experience with quality tools and methodologies such as SPC, FMEA, APQP, PPAP, 8D, and Root Cause Analysis.
• Experience conducting internal and supplier audits.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and reporting skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work environment and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency in quality management software and MS Office Suite.
• Relevant certifications (e.g., IATF Lead Auditor) are highly advantageous.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, demonstrating initiative.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical and dental coverage, and a strong retirement savings plan. The hybrid work model provides flexibility, balancing office collaboration with remote work efficiency. You will have opportunities for professional development, training, and career advancement within a leading automotive supplier. Join a company dedicated to quality and innovation, where your contributions are valued and recognized. This is an excellent opportunity to make a significant impact on product quality and customer satisfaction.