We are a national recruitment firm with a strong presence in engineering staffing in San Jose. We have years of experience recruiting Quality Engineers for clients in the Automotive industry. Our client is a vertically integrated manufacturer and recognized leader in precision CNC sheet metal fabrication and high-precision machining, based in the heart of Silicon Valley—San Jose, California. Serving a diverse array of high-tech industries, including automotive, defense, semiconductor, commercial, and industrial sectors, this company is known for delivering ultra-precise, high-quality components that meet stringent performance and durability standards.
With advanced manufacturing capabilities spanning multi-axis CNC machining, laser cutting, stamping, forming, and welding, this AS9100- and ISO 9001-certified facility operates at the forefront of innovation, supporting both high-volume production and custom low-volume prototype projects. Their commitment to lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and state-of-the-art quality assurance technologies has made them a trusted supplier for mission-critical components and assemblies.
Typical Duties and Responsibilities
As a Senior Quality Engineer, you will take a lead role in ensuring the company’s manufacturing processes, materials, and products meet rigorous automotive quality standards and customer specifications. You will drive quality assurance initiatives across the organization to strengthen product reliability, process capability, and customer satisfaction.
Key responsibilities include:
- Lead the development, implementation, and maintenance of quality management systems (QMS) in compliance with IATF 16949, ISO 9001, and customer-specific quality requirements.
- Perform root cause analysis (RCA) and lead corrective action (CAR) and preventive action (PAR) activities for internal and external non-conformances.
- Conduct process audits, product audits, and supplier quality audits in accordance with AIAG Core Tools and industry best practices.
- Utilize APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) tools and lead PPAP (Production Part Approval Process) submissions for new and existing products.
- Apply FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis) and Control Plans to mitigate risks throughout product and process development phases.
- Oversee statistical process control (SPC) activities, including process capability studies (Cp, Cpk) and Gage R&R analysis.
- Collaborate closely with Manufacturing, CNC Machining, Sheet Metal Fabrication, and Engineering teams to ensure Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and adherence to quality standards during production.
- Manage customer complaint resolution processes, coordinating directly with clients and internal departments to address issues swiftly and effectively.
- Support internal training programs on quality tools, compliance requirements, and continuous improvement methodologies.
- Assist in supplier quality development, including audits, process validations, and part qualifications.
- Implement and maintain document control systems, inspection records, and detailed quality reporting metrics.
- Participate in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Continuous Improvement (CI) initiatives to reduce defects, scrap, and rework costs.
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Quality Engineering, or a related technical field is required.
- Master’s degree in Engineering or Quality Management is a plus.
Required Skills and Experience
- Minimum 10 years of quality engineering experience within the automotive, precision CNC machining, or sheet metal fabrication industries.
- Strong knowledge of automotive quality systems including IATF 16949, ISO 9001, and AIAG Core Tools.
- Expertise in APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans, MSA (Measurement Systems Analysis), and SPC.
- Extensive experience with precision machining processes, including multi-axis CNC milling, turning, laser cutting, and sheet metal forming.
- Proficiency with quality and inspection software such as:
- Minitab
- Q-DAS
- Zeiss Calypso (CMM programming and inspection)
- PC-DMIS
- GAGEtrak
- Hands-on experience with CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machines), optical comparators, surface finish testers, and other advanced metrology tools.
- Proficiency with CAD/CAM software for dimensional analysis, including:
- SolidWorks
- AutoCAD
- Siemens NX
- Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle NetSuite, Epicor) for quality control and production traceability.
- Advanced problem-solving abilities using 8D, DMAIC, and A3 methodologies.
- Strong communication and leadership skills, with the ability to interface directly with customers, suppliers, and internal cross-functional teams.
- Deep understanding of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) and blueprint reading for complex mechanical components.
Preferred Qualifications
- Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) from the American Society for Quality (ASQ).
- Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt Certification.
- Direct experience working with automotive OEMs or Tier 1 suppliers.
- Background in weld inspection, laser welding, or resistance spot welding processes.
- Familiarity with AS9100 for projects related to defense or aerospace sectors.
- Experience implementing Industry 4.0 quality systems and digital inspection technologies.
- Proficiency in Python, VBA, or SQL for advanced data analysis and reporting automation.
