Metallurgy Process Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

At Vallourec, we are seeking individuals whose passion and dedication match the strength and resilience of the steel we produce. As part of the Continuous Improvement segment within the plant’s Quality Organization, the Quality Engineer (QE) plays a critical role in enhancing both internal and external quality processes to elevate the customer experience. QEs collaborate closely with Process Engineers (PEs), who lead technical improvement projects within their assigned areas. While PEs focus on process enhancements, QEs ensure these efforts are aligned with customer expectations by translating the Voice of the Customer into measurable improvement targets—such as Claims, NCRs, and NQC (non-quality cost). Together, QEs and PEs co-develop and execute improvement projects, with QEs taking the lead in designing audits to ensure long-term sustainability of results.

Your Role at a Glance

• Receive and act on quality feedback from the Quality Technical Services team (IndEx) regarding field issues, developing internal plant-level action plans.
• Lead and manage a high quality, detailed and comprehensive 8D problem-solving process to address root causes of quality issues and ensure long-term prevention of recurrence.
• Serve as the plant owner of the 8D process, ensuring consistency, depth, and effectiveness in execution.
• Collaborate with Quality Systems personnel to enhance in-plant processes and routines that support disciplined change management aligned with 8D corrective actions.
• Partner with shop floor teams, Process Engineering, and VPAs to lead or support projects aimed at reducing quality defects and improving administrative processes that impact customer experience.
• Manage and analyze NQC and Claims metrics, identifying trends in lagging indicators and developing strategic roadmaps for quality improvement.
• Conduct in-depth statistical analysis of leading indicators to uncover root causes and support the development of effective countermeasures.
• Support internal process audits in coordination with Quality Systems to ensure compliance and continuous improvement.
• Coach plant teams to foster a quality mindset, strengthen the quality culture, and reinforce the Voice of the Customer at all operational levels.

What Sets You Apart

We’re looking for individuals who bring the right mix of experience, mindset, and motivation: 

• BS Engineering or quality-related discipline required (metallurgical engineering or materials science preferred). Candidates must be degreed, BS minimum.
• Minimum 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing quality role.
• Experience with quality tools and methodologies: Proficient in SPC, FMEA, 8D, and Six Sigma practices.
• Regulatory and standards compliance: Hands-on experience with ISO 9001, ISO 17025, API Q1, or similar quality management systems.
• CQE or equivalent is preferred. Certified ISO / API Q1 auditor / lead auditor status is preferred
• Cross-functional collaboration: Proven ability to work with engineering, production, and quality systems teams to drive quality improvements.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals.
• Strong computer skills, including O365 Suite applications and the ability to learn new applications as needed or required. Proficiency in using quality management software and tools. Data analysis and statistics software (e.g. PowerBI, Minitab) experience are a plus.
• Strong analytical ability and excellent attention to details. Knowledge of problem-solving methodologies.
• Strong understanding of quality management systems, standards, and regulations such as ISO and/or API Standards.
• Thorough understanding of physical and chemical testing requirements and methods (e.g. ASTM, NACE).  

What Powers Your Performance

Success in this role is driven by a strong mix of personal ownership, collaboration, and continuous improvement. We value team members who:

• Communicate clearly and constructively
• Collaborate effectively and contribute to team success
• Adapt to change with a positive, proactive mindset
• Take accountability and show initiative in their work
• Demonstrate reliability and pride in performance
• Prioritize safety and act with awareness
• Embrace feedback and use it to grow
• Maintain high attention to detail
• Drive continuous improvement and challenge the status quo
• Support and develop others through shared learning

How We Support Your Success

We’re committed to helping you thrive- on the job and beyond. That’s why we offer a collaborative culture where your ideas drive real change, and career mobility within a stable, essential industry. To support your growth and well-being, we also provide a comprehensive and competitive benefits program, including:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
• Company-Paid Life Insurance & Short/Long-Term Disability
• Profit Sharing: Up to 4%
• 401(k): Company match 4.5% with no vesting period
• Paid Parental Leave: For birthing and non-birthing parents, including adoptions
• Paid Holidays: 10 days, plus 1 personal floating holiday
• Paid Vacation Time
• Performance-Based Bonus Program
• Tuition Reimbursement

Safety isn’t negotiable, it’s who we are. Every spark, every shift, and every decision is guided by a commitment that goes well beyond compliance. We don’t cut corners; we set the standard. That means clear expectations, continuous training, and shared accountability at every level. Protecting our people is more than a priority, it’s a promise we make to every colleague, every day.