Entry Level Software Engineer Jobs in Hickory, NC

US Conec is seeking an entry-level Quality Engineer to support product quality, customer satisfaction, supplier quality, and continuous improvement initiatives across our manufacturing and development operations. This role partners closely with Manufacturing, Engineering, Supply Chain, Sales, Product Management, and external suppliers to ensure products meet customer requirements, maintain ISO 9001 compliance, and support environmental and regulatory standards.

• Investigate customer quality concerns and drive timely resolution through root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Partner with manufacturing teams to identify and implement process and product quality improvements.
• Collaborate with suppliers to resolve quality issues and ensure compliance with US Conec quality standards.
• Work with Sales and Product Management teams to effectively communicate quality-related actions and resolutions to customers.
• Manage environmental compliance and responsible sourcing programs in accordance with global regulatory and industry requirements.
• Obtain, review, and maintain supplier compliance documentation, material declarations, and regulatory information.
• Respond to customer requests for compliance, environmental, and material-related documentation.
• Coordinate material and product testing activities with external laboratories and maintain associated records and databases.
• Support the development, maintenance, and continuous improvement of the ISO 9001 Quality Management System.
• Lead and participate in internal ISO 9001 audits across functional areas and drive closure of audit findings through corrective action processes.
• Conduct supplier quality audits and support supplier development activities.
• Apply quality and statistical tools to improve product performance, process capability, and operational efficiency.
• Support implementation of Statistical Process Control (SPC), Measurement System Analysis (MSA), process capability studies, and sampling plans.
• Engage with suppliers to establish product acceptance criteria and ensure adherence to quality requirements.
• Maintain and update quality documentation, procedures, and records as needed.
• Assist with First Article Inspections (FAIs), product dispositions, and quality-related data analysis.
• Utilize precision inspection and metrology equipment to evaluate products and processes.

• Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering or a related technical discipline.
• 0 to 2 years of experience in quality engineering, manufacturing engineering, process engineering, or a related field.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to investigate and resolve quality issues.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills with the ability to work effectively across cross-functional teams.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently with minimal supervision.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to delivering high-quality results.
• Ability to interpret technical information and translate requirements into clear documentation and processes.

• Experience with fiber optic products, cable assemblies, connectors, or related technologies.
• Knowledge of root cause analysis methodologies and corrective/preventive action processes.
• Experience with process development and process improvement initiatives.
• Familiarity with Statistical Process Control (SPC), process capability analysis, control charts, and other quality metrics.
• Experience with measurement systems, metrology, and precision inspection equipment.
• Knowledge of Design of Experiments (DOE) and data analysis techniques.
• Understanding of ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience conducting internal or supplier audits.
• Working knowledge of ERP systems.
• Experience with CAD software, SPC software, or quality data management tools.
• Familiarity with environmental compliance, responsible sourcing, and material regulatory requirements.

• Competitive salary with performance-based bonus potential
• 4 weeks of PTO plus paid holidays
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with employer match
• A collaborative culture focused on innovation and continuous improvement
• Opportunities for career growth within a global technology leader