Quality Technician

Job Summary:

Analyzes both internal and external quality issues ranging from prototype builds to warranty analysis. Assists in the identification of root causes related to assembly methods. Participates in cross-functional team efforts to solve these problems. Works under supervision and direction from the quality engineering staff.

Essential Functions:

• Develops quality work instructions as required
• Trains operators on work instruction updates for all gages
• Lead analyst for all customer warranties. Maintains records for all analysis performed
• Assists with coordination and development of prototype product measurements
• Assists with Gage Repeatability & Reproducibility and process capability studies.
• Performs measurement functions for problem solving efforts
• Assists with maintaining gage software programs for assembly processes as well as gage masters
• Assists in process and product audits per IATF16949 requirements
• Assists with PPAP product builds and data collection
• Assist engineering in problem solving projects, with prototype / sample production, and machine acceptance and qualification.
• Perform level test to assure staff qualification.
• Analyze drive shaft and part assembly concerns.
• Audits drive shaft and parts to verify specifications and tolerances.
• Carry out special projects and all other appropriate and reasonable duties that may be assigned from time to time.
• Coordinates problem solving efforts with respective personnel and provides management with recommended corrective actions.
• Monitors customer portals based on assignment.
• All employees are responsible for having an awareness and understanding of IFA North America's commitment to ISO 14001
• Has the authority to hold and/or stop product shipments if it does not conform to the quality requirements. Has the authority to override any decisions made to ship non-conforming product

Additional Responsibilities:

• Implements good housekeeping practices
• Supports Manufacturing Engineers as needed
• Performs special projects as needed

Education:

• Technical training in automotive related fields a plus
• High School diploma or general education degree (GED)
• Three to six months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Associates degree in a Technical or related field or equivalent years of experience in automotive manufacturing.

Experience:

• Minimum 3-year quality assurance experience within an automotive manufacturing environment
• Basic understanding of industrial machines and gauges used in measuring single and complete components.
• Familiar with lean production concepts
• Proficient with computer business applications (MS office, Excel, Power Point, Access)

Specific Skills:

• Must be available to work all shifts as required, including extended shifts, weekends and overtime
• Must be able to work effectively with all levels of the organization
• Effective written and verbal communication skills

Desired Education/Skills/Experience:

• Knowledge of Statistical Process Control
• Knowledge of job-related product information
• Familiarity with gauge and test equipment
• Familiar with drive shaft manufacturing plant operations and equipment
• Retrieve drawings from SAP database
• Read and interpret drawings / component print knowledge
• CAD Experience
• MiniTab Experience
• Must possess strong mechanical skills.
• The ability to read, write and speak German is beneficial but not required
• VDA 6.3 Process Audit(s) knowledge but not required

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to walk/move about a 500,000 plus sq ft manufacturing facility: 90% of the time
• Must be able to stand/walk/move about specific work area: 75% of the time
• Must be able to bend/reach/twist/stoop: 40% of the time
• Must be able to lift up to 30lbs on a frequent basis: 30% of the time
• Must be able to lift over 30lbs on an infrequent basis: 10% of the time
• Must be able to push/pull materials using motorized and non-motorized material handling equipment on an infrequent basis: 20% of the time
• Must be able to sit at a work station: 80% of the time
• Must be able to work and operate a computer terminal: 80% of the time
• Vision is required to analyze and process work; and to work on computer terminal/machine centers, etc.
• Hearing is essential for safety reasons; and to communicate with employees, supervisors, managers, vendors, suppliers and customers via conversation, group meetings, and/or phone conferences
• Ability and willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required.