Quality Lab Technician

About the role

The Quality Lab Technician reports to the Plant Manager and works at Standex International's facility in Fraser, MI. This full-time, non-exempt position supports product quality in both manufacturing and the quality laboratory for automotive interior trim components.

Responsibilities

• Perform daily quality inspections and testing on production parts in both the manufacturing area and quality laboratory.
• Conduct visual, dimensional, and functional inspections to verify conformance to customer and engineering specifications.
• Operate and utilize quality lab equipment such as calipers, gauges, peel testers, and 3D scanning equipment.
• Collect, record, and maintain inspection and testing data accurately within quality documentation systems.
• Inspect outgoing product to ensure only conforming material is released to customers.
• Identify, label, and segregate non-conforming material and support proper containment and disposition activities.
• Absorb and support root cause investigations and corrective actions related to customer complaints, internal defects, and production concerns.
• Maintain cleanliness, organization, and calibration awareness within the quality lab environment.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on reducing scrap, improving efficiency, and enhancing product quality.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree or technical certification preferred.
• 2+ years of experience in a quality, laboratory, inspection, or manufacturing environment preferred.
• Automotive manufacturing experience preferred.

Qualifications

• Experience using basic inspection and measurement equipment including calipers, gauges, peel testers, and scanners.
• Understanding of quality inspection methods, defect identification, and basic root cause analysis.
• Familiarity with SPC, quality documentation, and inspection reporting is preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret drawings, specifications, work instructions, equipment manuals, and Safety Data Sheets.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to product quality.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills across production and leadership teams.
• Ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement concepts is a plus.
• Knowledge of injection molding, lamination, or automotive interior trim manufacturing processes is preferred.
• Basic math and computer skills required.
• Willingness to learn and grow within quality and manufacturing operations.

Physical and Work Requirements

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, stooping, kneeling, and close visual inspection work.
• Good hand dexterity, hearing, and vision are essential, including the ability to differentiate colors.
• Ability to perform repetitive motions using hands, wrists, and arms.
• Moderate lifting of up to 50 lbs. may be required.
• Must be able to work in both a manufacturing floor environment and laboratory setting.
• Required to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

Work Environment

• This environment includes molding presses, automated handling systems, robotic equipment, and inspection tools.
• The plant operates under automotive quality standards including IATF 16949 and ISO 9001.