Quality Engineer 1

Job Summary:

DENSO Manufacturing Athens Tennessee, Inc. is seeking a Supplier Quality Engineer to lead and manage supplier-related quality issues, ensuring defect-free mass production. This role is crucial for maintaining high standards and supporting cross-functional teams.

• Supplier Related Quality Engineering
• Responsible for maintaining quality of outsourced parts, as well as sub-materials, per Denso quality standards
• Monitoring, Development, and Systems Management of suppliers
• Support Problem Investigation both internally and at suppliers
• Provide Engineering Support to Inspection Departments
• Support supplier and internal cross functional groups for overall quality improvement activities
• Develop detailed test plans to evaluate change-points in supplied parts
• Understand, Document, and Improve supplier processes
• Assist in judging parts against established visual/functional standards
• Learn supplier processes to troubleshoot defects/suspect parts at Denso
• Must be able to recognize quality trends and act accordingly
• Obtain and maintain open communication with suppliers worldwide to accurately/promptly communicate quality issues for quick resolution

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related degree or a combination of degree and equivalent Quality experience would be considered
• Strong communication skills (both verbal & written)
• 1-3+ years engineering experience, or co-op equivalent in manufacturing, quality, or related field.  Preferred prior experience with direct work with suppliers or supplied components.
• Skilled in Microsoft Office applications
• Ability to travel as needed (up to 10-20%)
• Experience leading peer-team projects
• Experience in a multi-cultural environment
• Familiar with Automotive Industry Quality Systems & Requirements including TS16949 and IATF
• Other supplied process knowledge/experience considered: Machining, Heat Treating, Annealing, Plating, Metal Stamping, Brazing, Forging, Plastic Injection Molding, and Assembly processes 

Benefits Summary:

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription Drug Plans
• 401K with 4% Company Match 
• Vacation/PTO and 13 Paid Holidays
• Bonus Program 
• FSA/HSA and Dependent Care Programs
• Company provided Life, Disability, ADD, and Business Travel Insurance
• Various No Cost Wellness & Chronic Condition Management Programs
• Various Optional Insurance Programs such as Legal, Identity Theft, Critical Illness, etc. 
• Tuition Reimbursement 
• Career Development and Ongoing Training 
• Employee Assistance Program 
• Employee Spotlight and Recognition Program
• Volunteer opportunities 
• Onsite Fitness Center (vary by location)
• Cafeteria and food markets (vary by location)
• Onsite Health Clinic and Pharmacy (vary by location) 

Candidates residing 50+ miles from the work location are eligible for relocation assistance. 

Annual Salary: $73,000 - $91,000

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage supplier quality issues, including defect handling and investigations.
• Implement and oversee supplier change-point management processes.
• Develop and execute action plans to address quality concerns.
• Provide cross-functional support to various teams, ensuring quality standards are met.
• Conduct on-site (Genba) investigations to identify and resolve production issues.
• Collaborate with suppliers to improve their quality management systems.
• Review and approve supplier documentation and quality plans.
• Ensure compliance with DENSO's quality standards and industry regulations.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation of quality-related activities.
• Stay updated on industry trends and best practices in quality engineering.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Quality Management, or a related field.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in a quality engineering role, preferably in manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of quality management systems and standards (e.g., ISO, IATF).
• Experience in supplier quality management and defect analysis.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Effective communication and collaboration abilities.
• Proficiency in using quality control tools and software.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects.
• Willingness to travel for on-site investigations and supplier meetings.
• Familiarity with automotive industry quality standards is preferred.