Senior Automotive Quality Engineer

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 950,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

401(k) plan

Professional development

Paid time off

Hybrid role

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Automotive Quality Engineer in Pretoria to ensure top-quality across manufacturing and product lines. You will implement QA systems, lead audits, and drive continuous improvement with cross-functional teams to minimize defects and enhance customer satisfaction.

The role requires a strong quality background, hands-on problem solving, and proactive leadership in a fast-paced automotive environment. Hybrid work arrangement is provided.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial) or related field.
• Minimum 5 years in quality engineering, preferably automotive manufacturing.
• Familiar with IATF 16949, ISO 9001, APQP, PPAP, FMEA, and SPC.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain QMS aligned with IATF 16949.
• Conduct internal and external audits to ensure compliance and identify improvements.
• Analyze quality data, identify trends, implement CAPA for root causes.
• Collaborate with production, engineering, and suppliers to resolve issues.
• Create and manage quality inspection plans for inbound, in-process, and finished goods.
• Train production personnel on quality standards and best practices.
• Lead continuous improvement projects to reduce scrap and improve efficiency.
• Manage customer complaints with timely investigation and resolution.
• Prepare detailed quality KPIs and management reports.

Skills

Quality management systems

Auditing

CAPA

Data analysis

Root cause analysis

Cross-functional leadership

Problem solving

Communication

Project management

Supplier quality management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

Statistical analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the automotive supply chain, is seeking a meticulous and experienced Senior Automotive Quality Engineer to join their team based in Pretoria . This crucial position involves ensuring the highest standards of quality across all manufacturing processes and product lines. You will be responsible for implementing and managing quality control systems, conducting audits, and driving continuous improvement initiatives to minimize defects and enhance customer satisfaction. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of quality methodologies, a keen eye for detail, and a proactive approach to problem-solving within a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute significantly to product excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive quality management systems (QMS) aligned with automotive industry standards (e.g., IATF 16949).
• Conduct regular internal and external audits of processes and products to ensure compliance and identify areas for improvement.
• Analyze quality data, identify trends, and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) to address root causes of defects.
• Collaborate with production, engineering, and supplier teams to resolve quality issues and implement robust solutions.
• Develop and manage quality inspection plans and procedures for incoming materials, in-process production, and finished goods.
• Train and mentor production personnel on quality standards, procedures, and best practices.
• Lead continuous improvement projects focused on enhancing product quality, reducing scrap, and improving process efficiency.
• Manage customer complaints related to quality, ensuring timely investigation and resolution.
• Prepare detailed quality reports for management, highlighting key performance indicators (KPIs) and improvement initiatives.
• Stay informed about regulatory requirements and industry best practices in automotive quality management.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial) or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in quality engineering, preferably within the automotive manufacturing sector.
• In-depth knowledge of quality management systems, such as IATF 16949, ISO 9001, APQP, PPAP, FMEA, and SPC.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools and statistical methods for quality improvement.
• Experience with root cause analysis techniques (e.g., 8D, 5 Whys).
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and quality control techniques.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and communication skills.
• Ability to effectively lead cross-functional teams and influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and project management skills.
• Experience in supplier quality management is a significant advantage.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, and a 401(k) plan for employees in Pretoria .
• This hybrid role provides flexibility while ensuring essential collaboration within their facilities.
• Opportunities for professional development, including advanced quality certifications and training, are readily available.
• Enjoy a supportive work environment, ample paid time off, and the chance to work with a leading organization committed to excellence in the automotive industry.
• Contribute to ensuring top-tier product quality and drive positive change.