Lead Quality Engineer - Industrial Manufacturing

The Impact You’ll Make

The Lead Quality Engineer plays a critical role in driving plant operational and customer quality goals while reporting directly to the Quality Manager. This position focuses on advancing continuous improvement initiatives, strengthening data‑driven quality performance, and preventing the recurrence of nonconforming products or materials. Success in the role is defined by the ability to achieve key quality KPIs through effective analytics, strong leadership, and collaboration across cross‑functional teams to support a culture of excellence in quality.

Sponsorship is NOT available for this role.

This is a full‑time onsite position based in Van Wert, OH.

• Drive and support continuous improvement projects impacting key quality metrics (e.g., Customer DPPM, Product Audits) through data analytics aligned with Danfoss Quality System policies.
• Lead efforts to reduce Cost of Poor Quality (Scrap, Rework, Repair, Warranty) while ensuring prevention and recurrence control of suspect or nonconforming material or product.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering and Production Operations to develop Process FMEAs, Control Plans, Measurement System Analyses, and Process Capability methods.
• Lead structured team problem‑solving efforts such as Six Sigma, 8D, and Corrective/Preventive Actions to resolve issues and achieve quality KPI targets.
• Support risk mitigation activities across the value stream to proactively address potential quality issues.
• Strengthen supplier and customer relationships through effective communication and partnership.
• Provide leadership and direction for Quality Department personnel.
• Lead monthly quality performance reviews and provide detailed project status updates.

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of five years of experience in a quality role within operations.
• Knowledge and experience with inspection and testing equipment.
• Ability to read engineering drawings, GD&T, process control plans, PFMEA, routers, job instructions, standardized work, and statistical methods.
• Proficiency with AIAG Core Tools: PPAP, APQP, MSA, SPC, and FMEA.

• ASQ certification (CQE, CMQ/OE).
• Six Sigma Green Belt certification.
• Certified internal auditor (IATF 16949 preferred).
• Experience with 8D problem‑solving methods.
• Demonstrated continuous improvement experience within an ISO‑certified Quality Management System.
• Knowledge of fabrication, machining, and assembly processes.
• Experience with SAP (ERP system).

• Effective team leadership with strong communication and presentation skills.
• Strong analytical thinking, problem‑solving skills, sense of urgency, and managerial courage.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Proficiency with computers and MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint); experience with SharePoint, Power BI, and Minitab is a plus.
• Solid understanding of ISO/IATF 16949, AIAG PPAP, APQP, MSA, SPC, and FMEA standards and tools.

• Bonus system
• Paid vacation
• Retirement plan
• Flexible working hours
• Personal insurance
• Opportunity to join Employee Resource Groups
• State of the art virtual work environment
• Employee Referral Program

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected category.

Ready to Make a Difference? If this role excites you, we’d love to hear from you! Apply now to start the conversation and learn more about where your career can go with us.