Manufacturing Quality Engineer -, IA

Job Description

Responsible for coordination of complex and multi-disciplined engineering projects from concept to implementation. Coordinates all work within the scope of assigned projects to ensure objectives in terms of quality, cost, and time are met. Follows the structure of Pella's Safety, Quality, Project Management & Continuous Improvement Systems from concept through project execution. Approves product/process design and prepares engineering documents; such as cost estimates, appropriation requests, projects schedules, design specifications, instruction specifications, purchase requisitions, operating manuals, and technical reports.

Assures that contracts are awarded to the outside vendors that offer the best value and appropriate quality. Responsible for effective communication of engineering information among team members. May supervise assigned technical team members and coordinates their work within the scope of assigned responsibilities. Serves as an expert resource across the organization, providing technical information, and engineering recommendations that influence projects.

Capable of working independently and with minimal direction on complex projects. Also responsible for the advancement and application of engineering technologies and processes.

Primarily an individual contributor role. Capable of leading a team in complex technical projects from development through implementation. Serves as a mentor and coach to others in area of expertise. May supervise exempt, non-exempt, and hourly employees.

Develops and evaluates plans and criteria for a variety of projects and activities. Plans, schedules, and coordinates detailed phases of a project or task.

Technology process owner; responsible for developing and applying knowledge across multiple disciplines across the organization.

Assesses the feasibility and soundness of proposed approaches, techniques or equipment when necessary data are insufficient. Performs as requested as advisor and consultant relative to a scientific or engineering specialty or a product function. Carries out assignments requiring the development of new or improved techniques and procedures. Possesses in-depth problem solving skills utilized to determine and address root cause. Work results in the development of refined equipment, materials, processes, products, technologies, and/or scientific methods.

Plans and coordinates work requiring independent judgment in the evaluation, selection, and adaptation of advanced techniques and processes. Knowledge and judgment have a direct effect on advancement of assigned technology.

Manage and improve processes to uphold product quality standards. Track and monitor key quality performance metrics in order to reduce manufacturing defects. The scope of influence of this position spans manufacturing, engineering, product development, sales branches and material vendors. Strong influential leadership skills are necessary when planning and implementing PPM projects and when prioritizing plant quality activities. The ability to effectively present information, defend a position and address concerns is key to fostering collaboration.

Responsible for the deployment of the Pella Quality System including the development and oversight of each plant's annual quality plan.

Supervisory responsibilities:

Plant quality & gauge technicians

Work hours:

Normal + irregular hours/shifts required

Travel expectations:
Minimal to moderate

Computer skills:
Microsoft Office applications and Minitab

Technical / functional skills:
Engineering statistics (Lean Sigma tools)

Safety:
Periodically exposed to machinery where safe operating procedures must be followed, occasional lifting of materials up to 30 lbs. is required, work environment may be noisy.

Certificates, licenses, and registrations:
Lean Sigma Green Belt certification and ASQ Certified Quality Engineer preferred.

Leadership competencies:
Apply technical and functional expertise, Manager and improve processes, Foster collaboration, Establish plans, Coach and develop people, Lead courageously

7+ years combined engineering experience within 2-3 disciplines (Process, Product, CI, Project, Quality, Plant).

Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Math, or relevant Science or combination of education and experience. Masters Degree preferred in Engineering, Math, or relevant Science.