Senior Engineer, Product Quality - Suspension, Brakes, and Alignment

About the role

The Product Quality Engineer (PQE) – Suspension/Brakes/Alignment plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality and reliability of suspension, braking, and alignment systems in Scout Motors vehicles. This role involves problem-solving, root cause analysis, supplier coordination, and continuous improvement efforts to maintain high-quality standards in manufacturing and product development.

Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with company and industry quality standards (IATF 16949, ISO 9001, etc.)
• Monitor and analyze quality performance metrics related to suspension, brakes, and alignment systems
• Perform audits on manufacturing processes and supplier components to ensure adherence to specifications
• Lead failure analysis and problem resolution using methodologies such as 8D, DMAIC, and 5-Why analysis
• Investigate product failures, warranty claims, and customer complaints related to suspension, braking, and alignment issues
• Utilize tools like FMEA (Failure Modes and Effects Analysis) and PPAP (Production Part Approval Process) to assess and mitigate risks
• Collaborate with suppliers and internal teams to implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA)
• Work closely with suppliers to improve component quality and resolve non-conformance issues
• Support production teams in resolving manufacturing quality concerns and process deviations
• Review and validate engineering changes related to suspension, brakes, and alignment to ensure quality impact assessment
• Identify and drive quality improvement initiatives to enhance product performance and reliability
• Implement Lean Six Sigma principles to optimize processes and reduce defects
• Develop and update quality control plans, work instructions, and inspection criteria
• Support durability and performance testing of suspension, brake, and alignment systems
• Work with R&D and testing teams to validate new designs and product modifications
• Analyze test data to ensure compliance with safety and performance requirements

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field
• 8+ years of experience in product quality and/or manufacturing engineering in the automotive industry
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, along with collaboration skills to work with cross-functional teams
• Strong understanding of suspension, brake, and alignment systems
• Proficiency in quality tools like FMEA, SPC, 8D, PPAP, APQP, and MSA
• Hands-on experience with problem-solving techniques such as Root Cause Analysis and Corrective Action implementation
• Experience with CAD software, data analysis tools, and quality management systems
• Familiarity with statistical tools like Minitab is a plus
• (Preferred) Six Sigma Green/Black Belt, Certified Quality Engineer (CQE), IATF 16949 Lead Auditor
• Strong analytical, communication, and teamwork skills with a proactive approach to problem-solving

Qualifications

• Valid driver's license required
• Passport required

Benefits

• Competitive insurance including: Medical, dental, vision, and income protection plans
• 401(k) program with: An employer match and immediate vesting
• Generous Paid Time Off including: 20 days planned PTO, as accrued; 40 hours of unplanned PTO and 14 company or floating holidays, annually
• Up to 16 weeks of paid parental leave for biological and adoptive parents of all genders
• Paid leave for circumstances related to bereavement, jury duty, voting time, or military leave

Pay

Initial Base Salary Range: $120,000.00 - $145,000.00

Schedule

This role will be based out of the Scout Motors location in Blythewood, South Carolina. This role requires 4-5 days per week in the office, with regular in-person meetings and events. Applicants should expect that the role will require the ability to convene with Scout colleagues in person and travel to participate in events on behalf of the company from time to time. Travel: Domestic and international travel required, approximately 10-40% of the time.