Associate Quality Engineer
The Associate Quality Engineer is an entry-level role focused on supporting quality engineering activities within a manufacturing environment. Responsibilities include assisting with process validation, quality planning, root cause analysis, CAPA, and continuous improvement initiatives while collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure product and process quality compliance. This position offers hands-on experience and mentorship to develop expertise in quality systems, regulatory requirements, and manufacturing processes.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
The Associate Quality Engineer is an entry-level role supporting quality engineering activities for a confidential client in a regulated manufacturing environment. This role offers hands-on exposure to quality systems, process validation (IQ/OQ/PQ), corrective action, and continuous improvement while working alongside Quality, Engineering, and Production teams.
- Support development and sustaining quality activities for assigned programs, including part validation, qualification, and ongoing compliance
- Participate in the Stage-Gate product realization and new product introduction process
- Assist with IQ, OQ, and PQ validation protocols and reports under the direction of senior Quality/Engineering staff
- Support creation and maintenance of Process Flow Diagrams, Process FMEAs, Control Plans, work instructions, and inspection instructions
- Investigate and document customer quality concerns; support CAPA, SCAR, and RMA activities
- Review and help disposition internally produced nonconforming material (NCR/MRB)
- Participate in internal, customer, ISO 13485, and regulatory audits and support follow-up actions
- Analyze quality and production data to find trends and improvement opportunities
- Support Lean/Six Sigma continuous improvement projects to reduce defects, scrap, rework, and complaints
- Participate in structured problem solving (8D, DMAIC, A3) with mentorship
- Assist production and engineering teams with updates to quality documentation and inspection methods
- Support shop-floor quality initiatives and reinforce adherence to procedures and standards
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related technical discipline preferred; recent graduates encouraged to apply
- 0–2 years’ experience in quality, engineering, manufacturing, or related technical environments preferred (relevant internships/co-ops/projects considered)
- Exposure to or willingness to learn process validation (IQ/OQ/PQ)
- Basic understanding of root cause analysis, corrective action, and problem-solving techniques
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications; exposure to GD&T a plus
- Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
- Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective written/verbal communication
- Ability to manage multiple assignments, prioritize, and meet deadlines
- Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., Epicor), document/change control, ISO 13485, FDA quality requirements, cGMP/cGDP is a plus
- Valid identification and legal authorization to work in the United States
Preferred / Nice-to-Have
- Internship or co-op experience in manufacturing or quality engineering
- Experience with Lean or Six Sigma methods
- Prior exposure to regulated medical-device manufacturing or comparable quality systems
Location & Compensation
- Location: Vadnais Heights, MN (on-site / manufacturing environment)
- Estimated pay: $76,509 per year (estimated)
Why This Role?
- Hands-on mentorship from experienced quality and engineering professionals
- Early-career growth opportunities in quality engineering and product realization
- Exposure to regulated manufacturing environments and audit readiness
- Opportunity to build practical skills in validation, CAPA, root-cause analysis, and continuous improvement
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
Negotiate a higher salary! Check the salary ranges for this job type in your area.
View My Salary Range