The Quality Engineer is responsible for ensuring that all steel pipe manufacturing operations meet internal quality standards and customer specifications.
This role leverages technical expertise and analytical skills to drive quality assurance, continuous improvement, and compliance across multi-facility operations. The Quality Engineer works closely with production, maintenance, engineering, and management teams to identify root causes of quality issues, implement corrective actions, and optimize manufacturing processes. This role will report directly into the Director, Quality or as assigned.
Working Conditions:
Primarily works within the production mill environment with moderate administrative office work. Exposure to heat, noise, and moving machinery; PPE required at all times. Must be able to stand/walk for extended periods, climb stairs, and occasionally lift up to 30 lbs. May require shift work, including nights or weekends, depending on production schedule or during major maintenance or startups.
1. Qualifications:
1.1. A Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field. Metallurgical degree preferred.
1.2. 5+ years of experience in quality engineering, preferably in steel, pipe, or heavy manufacturing operations.
1.3. Strong knowledge of quality tools and methodologies, including SPC, FMEA, root cause analysis, 8D, and continuous improvement frameworks.
1.4. Demonstrated experience with multi-facility manufacturing environments and cross-functional collaboration.
1.5. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
1.6. Excellent communication skills, including the ability to influence and train teams.
1.7. Familiarity with ISO/ASTM standards, customer quality requirements, and regulatory compliance.
1.1. Proficiency with quality and reporting software (Excel, Minitab, or similar)
1.2. Team-oriented, eager to learn, and able to work collaboratively across multiple departments.
2. Responsibilities:
Safety & Compliance
2.1 Ensure compliance with industry standards, ISO/ASTM requirements, and customer-specific specifications.
2.2 Partner with regulatory and legal teams to address compliance and certification matters.
2.3 Promote a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement across all operations.
Quality Management & Assurance
2.4 Lead quality assurance activities across all plant operations, including ERW Mill, Stretch Reduction Mill, Heat Treat, Hydro Testing, Warehouse, Yard, Shipping, and Maintenance.
2.5 Conduct inspections, audits, and testing to ensure adherence to customer specifications, internal standards, and regulatory requirements.
2.6 Investigate non-conforming products or process deviations, perform root-cause analysis, and develop corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
2.7 Ensure that quality documentation, procedures, and records are maintained and updated according to standards.
Data Analysis & Reporting
2.8 Analyze quality data and metrics, including scrap rates, rejection trends, customer complaints, and process capability, to identify improvement opportunities.
2.9 Generate and present reports and recommendations to management for process enhancements and quality initiatives.
2.10 Support compliance reporting for internal audits, customer audits, and regulatory inspections.
Continuous Improvement & Process Optimization
2.11 Lead and support quality improvement projects across multiple facilities, applying Lean, Six Sigma, or other process improvement methodologies.
2.12 Partner with maintenance and engineering to implement process improvements that enhance product quality, reliability, and throughput.
2.13 Mentor and guide junior engineers or technicians in quality best practices and problem-solving methods.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
2.14 Collaborate with production, maintenance, engineering, and management teams to integrate quality into all aspects of operations.
2.15 Provide technical guidance and expertise in resolving complex quality issues.
2.16 Support new product introductions, process changes, and equipment upgrades from a quality
2.17 in a global manufacturing context
3. Authority and Obligation:
3.1. This position has the authority to stop work for reasons of quality or safety.
3.2. Other duties as assigned.