Quality Engineer

Position Title: Quality Engineer

Location: Minden, NV

Reports to: Plant Manager

Job Description

The Quality Engineer plays a key role in ensuring that products and processes meet or exceed company and customer quality standards. This position supports continuous improvement initiatives, maintains ISO 9001 compliance, and drives defect reduction and operational excellence across all manufacturing processes, including assembly, powder coating, paint, and fabrication. The Quality Engineer works cross-functionally with Engineering, Production, and Operations teams to identify root causes, implement corrective actions, and promote a culture of quality throughout the organization. This position is based at the Minden, NV facility.

Key Responsibilities

Quality Systems & Compliance

• Develop, implement, and maintain a Quality Management System (QMS) compliant with ISO 9001 standards.
• Create and maintain process control plans, Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), and inspection criteria.
• Support internal and external audits, including ISO compliance and customer-specific requirements.
• Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and inspection documentation for Minden operations.
• Conduct First Article Inspections (FAI), process capability studies, and Gage R&R studies as needed.

Continuous Improvement & Problem Solving

• Lead and support quality improvement initiatives using Six Sigma, DMAIC, and Root Cause Analysis methodologies.
• Identify, analyze, and reduce Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ), including defects, rework, scrap, and warranty claims.
• Develop and monitor Critical to Quality (CTQ) parameters for key processes such as powder coating, paint, assembly, and fabrication.
• Facilitate cross-functional problem-solving teams to address recurring quality issues and ensure sustainable corrective actions.
• Drive preventive action and continuous improvement culture through structured problem-solving (8D, 5 Why, Fishbone, etc.).
• Track, analyze, and report on quality metrics and trends to support data-driven decision making.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Production teams to ensure product and process conformance to design and quality standards.
• Act as a liaison with customers and suppliers to resolve quality-related concerns and drive corrective action implementation.
• Train and mentor employees on quality tools, inspection techniques, and continuous improvement practices.

Qualifications & Skills

Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality, Industrial Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience); 3+ years of quality or process engineering experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Proven knowledge of quality systems, process control, and continuous improvement methodologies; experience with FMEA, Control Plans, SPC, CAPA, and auditing principles.
• Six Sigma Green Belt or higher certification preferred; experience in ISO 9001 implementation and auditing, and knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles (Kaizen, 5S, Visual Management) are a strong plus.
• Experience with powder coating, painting, and custom assembly processes; familiarity with ERP systems and quality modules (e.g., SAP, Plex, Epicor) preferred.

Skills:

• Analytical thinking — uses data and evidence to drive improvement; strong attention to detail and accuracy with proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and statistical analysis tools (Excel, Minitab, or equivalent).
• Accountability — takes ownership of quality performance and outcomes; excellent communication and collaboration skills across all levels of the organization.
• Continuous improvement mindset — proactively identifies and implements opportunities for process optimization; works effectively across departments to achieve shared quality goals.

Ideal Team Member

• Hungry, Humble, and Smart – embodies the Sonance team culture
• Strategic thinker with the ability to execute tactically
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a competitive drive to win
• High integrity, trustworthiness, and a commitment to doing the right thing
• Resilient and composed under pressure
• Inspiring leader who motivates others through action & vision

Sonance is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where innovation thrives through authentic partnerships