Quality Engineer I
The Quality Engineer I supports manufacturing operations by applying quality engineering principles and continuous improvement methodologies to enhance product quality and reduce defects. This role involves investigating nonconformances, performing root cause analysis, implementing corrective actions, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure compliance with quality standards and customer requirements. The position requires active participation in quality monitoring, data analysis, and process improvement initiatives within a manufacturing environment.
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.
Position Overview
Quality Engineer I — Contract, Part-time (Durham, NC)
Pay Range: $37.00 - $42.00 per hour
Careertakes is supporting a Confidential Client in hiring a Quality Engineer I to support manufacturing operations. This early-career engineering role focuses on day-to-day quality support, data-driven problem solving, and continuous improvement in a manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide daily quality engineering support to manufacturing operations.
- Monitor production processes for compliance with procedures and quality requirements.
- Support containment, disposition, and resolution of nonconforming material.
- Participate in Material Review Board (MRB) activities.
- Investigate internal and customer-reported quality issues and perform root cause analysis.
- Support implementation and verification of corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs).
- Track assigned quality actions to timely completion and report status.
- Analyze quality data to identify trends, recurring defects, and improvement opportunities.
- Support Lean Manufacturing, error-proofing (Poka-Yoke), SPC, and Kaizen events.
- Prepare and present data-driven recommendations to management and cross-functional teams.
- Support supplier quality investigations, incoming inspection, and supplier performance monitoring.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
- 0–2 years of engineering, manufacturing, or quality experience (internship/co-op experience preferred).
- Understanding of quality engineering and manufacturing principles.
- Familiarity with root cause analysis and structured problem-solving (e.g., 5 Whys, Fishbone).
- Ability to analyze and interpret production and quality data.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Power BI, and Microsoft Office.
- Strong communication, teamwork, organizational, and project-management skills.
- Able to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and follow required safety/PPE procedures.
Preferred / Bonus Skills
- Experience with ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems.
- Statistical Process Control (SPC) experience.
- Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma exposure.
- Experience with ERP and quality management systems.
- ASQ certification or willingness to pursue certification.
Working Conditions & Physical Demands
- Work on the manufacturing floor; PPE required.
- Frequently lift/carry/push/pull up to 30 pounds; occasionally up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to see, hear, speak, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, reach, grasp, sit, stand, and walk as needed.
Benefits & Additional Info
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- 401(k) Retirement Plan
- Health Savings Account (HSA)
- Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance
- Life and AD&D Insurance
- Paid Sick Leave where required by applicable state or local law
- Supplemental insurance plans, identity-theft protection, pet insurance, EAP, and employee wellness programs
- Career growth and professional development opportunities
Benefits eligibility, accruals, and usage limits may vary by employment status and work location. Paid Sick Leave is provided in accordance with applicable state and local mandates.
Confidential Client (via Careertakes) is committed to maintaining compliance with all applicable U.S. federal, state, and local employment laws for roles posted in each state.
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.
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