Quality Engineer

The role

We are seeking a strategic and dynamic Quality Engineer. This role is responsible for ensuring products and processes meet high standards by designing quality systems, inspecting materials/products, analyzing data to find flaws, and implementing continuous improvement (CI) to eliminate defects, reduce waste, and ensure safety and compliance, working across design, production, and supply chain teams. The ideal candidate is an innovative, data-driven leader with a passion for quality management and a commitment to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and growth.

This position is based on-site at our Chicago, IL facility and reports to the Quality Manager as part of the Quality team.

What You’ll Do

• Establishment of quality engineering disciplines during the development phases of the product to ensure that quality objectives are met.
• Engineer, document, communicate and/or implement quality deliverables as defined by internal procedures, customer requirements, and industry standards for assigned, advanced program commodities.
• Reporting of APQP status and issues that may directly or indirectly lead to the detriment of the quality or financial performance of the assigned advanced program commodities. (As required based on business model)
• Interface with the customer and suppliers on quality-related issues.
• Lead the problem-solving activity for internal and external (customer and supplier) related quality issues, in compliance with the Business Operating System and supporting documentation.
• Establish and maintain PPAP/APQP documentation to ensure it meets customer and AIAG requirements and that applicable team members are properly trained. Facilitate communication between shifts on documentation changes/updates.
• Ensure that Core Tools (control plan, PFMEA, etc.) are revised as required, especially as a result of corrective actions.
• Review, disposition, and documented communication of discrepancies for supplier sample submissions of new or changed, advanced program materials.
• Coordination and preparation of required inputs and outputs to ensure that customer product; material, and documentation submissions are accurate, timely and complete.
• Monitor supplier quality initiative, performance management, corrective actions and document performance as required (based on business model).

Who you are

• Minimum four (4) year degree in Quality Control or ASQ Certified Quality Engineer, or equivalent combination of education and experience
• At least 3 years in an automotive manufacturing environment as a quality coordinator or quality supervisor
• Minimum of 5 years experience in a supplier & customer-related quality engineering role
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in AQP on new products in the automotive industry
• Root Cause Analysis and Corrective Action Completion
• Core tools (PPAP, SPC, FMEA, MSA, APQP, Control Plan)
• Demonstrate competency in metrology, blueprint reading, statistical techniques and color/appearance measurement

Health, Safety, Physical & Travel Requirements

• Typical physical demands include a combination of sitting, standing, and walking, with sufficient mobility to navigate both office and plant environments.
• Ability to perform standard computer-based tasks as part of daily responsibilities. Willingness and ability to travel up to 15% as required by the role.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license

Life at Dakkota

Our success is rooted in meaningful relationships and a culture that feels like family. We champion compassion, respect, and work-life balance, while supporting each team member’s personal and professional growth. Through ongoing development, competitive pay, and a comprehensive benefits package, we empower our people to thrive both at work and in life.

The pay range for this role is $85,000 – $100,000 per year. This role is also eligible for bonus/incentive pay. The pay range listed for this position represents a good-faith estimate of potential compensation at the time of posting. Actual pay may vary based on factors such as experience, skills, and location. This range is subject to change in the future and does not guarantee a specific salary.

Our benefits include paid time off, medical, dental, and vision coverage, and a 401(k) plan for eligible employees.

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