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Quality Associate Jobs in Maple Valley, WA (NOW HIRING)

RTCA

Quality Engineering Associate I

Fife, WA · On-site

The Quality Engineering Associate I supports the Quality Department by assisting in the review, documentation, and compliance of customer and internal quality requirements. This role bridges ...

Hypertherm Associates

Quality Technician

Kent, WA · On-site

$23.92 - $39.89/hr

Quality Technician - OMAX Waterjet Location: OMAX, 21409 72nd Ave S, Kent, WA Are you looking to ... At Hypertherm Associates, we strive to maintain a clean, safe, supportive, state-of-the-art ...

Hypertherm Associates

Staff Quality Engineer

Kent, WA · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Staff Quality Engineer Hypertherm Associates, the world leader in industrial cutting solutions, is seeking to add a dynamic and experienced Staff Quality Engineer to join our Waterjet business team ...

Hypertherm

Quality Technician

Kent, WA

$23.92 - $39.89/hr

Quality Technician - OMAX Waterjet Location: OMAX, 21409 72nd Ave S, Kent, WA Are you looking to ... At Hypertherm Associates, we strive to maintain a clean, safe, supportive, state-of-the-art ...

Hypertherm

Staff Quality Engineer

Kent, WA · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Staff Quality Engineer Hypertherm Associates, the world leader in industrial cutting solutions, is seeking to add a dynamic and experienced Staff Quality Engineer to join our Waterjet business team ...

Akima, LLC

Quality Auditor

Joint Base Lewis Mcchord, WA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Associate's or bachelor's degree in Logistics, Business, Quality Management, or related field (preferred). Equivalent military experience accepted. * Experience: * 2-4 years of experience in quality ...

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All JobsQuality Associate JobsQuality Associate Jobs in Maple Valley, WA

Quality Associate information

See Maple Valley, WA salary details

$12

$31

$58

How much do quality associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for quality associate in Maple Valley, WA is $31.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $36.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a quality associate?

Quality Associates are professionals responsible for ensuring that products or services meet established quality standards before reaching customers. They assist in monitoring production processes, performing inspections, and documenting quality issues or defects. Quality Associates also help implement quality control procedures and work closely with other departments to resolve any quality-related problems. Their role is essential in maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements and ensuring customer satisfaction.

What is the difference between Quality Associate vs Quality Technician?

AspectQuality AssociateQuality Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer certifications like ASQ CQPAHigh school diploma; certifications like CQTA are common but not always required
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, manufacturing floors, labsManufacturing plants, labs, production lines
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, healthcare, aerospace, automotiveManufacturing, electronics, pharmaceuticals
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level quality rolesSimilar roles but more technical focus

While both roles focus on quality assurance, a Quality Associate typically handles documentation, audits, and process improvements, often in office or administrative settings. A Quality Technician usually performs hands-on inspections, testing, and data collection directly on the production floor. Both roles are essential in maintaining product quality but differ in their daily tasks and work environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a quality associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Quality Associate, you need attention to detail, knowledge of quality control principles, and often a degree in science, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with quality management systems (such as ISO 9001), statistical analysis tools, and documentation software is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities help you collaborate across teams and address process issues effectively. These skills and qualities ensure that products and processes consistently meet standards, minimizing errors and maintaining compliance.

What are some common challenges quality associates face when working on cross-functional teams?

Quality Associates often collaborate with departments like manufacturing, engineering, and regulatory affairs to ensure product quality standards are met. One common challenge is balancing differing priorities—while production teams may be focused on output and speed, Quality Associates must prioritize compliance and thorough documentation. Navigating these competing interests requires strong communication skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Building positive relationships across teams and fostering a culture of quality can help overcome these challenges and ensure successful outcomes.

What does a quality associate do?

A quality associate works as part of a team, typically in the manufacturing industry, to inspect and audit a factory to ensure that production follows the necessary protocols and delivers the expected results. In this role, your responsibilities involve all aspects of quality control. You test procedures and make adjustments as required to meet goals and deadlines. As part of your duties, you log your findings and implement a plan for the smooth operation of the line for the long-term. Some people in this career specialize in a particular facet of the manufacturing process.

More about Quality Associate jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Quality jobs in Maple Valley, WA? The most popular types of Quality jobs in Maple Valley, WA are:
What cities near Maple Valley, WA are hiring for Quality Associate jobs? Cities near Maple Valley, WA with the most Quality Associate job openings:
Quality Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Quality Associate job openings in Maple Valley, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,806 per year, or $31.2 per hour.

Quality Engineering Associate I

RTCA

Fife, WA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

About RTCA:

RTCA is a precision aerospace and defense manufacturing group built on decades of hands-on machining expertise, with roots spanning more than 50 years. We support mission-critical commercial and government aerospace programs across North America through four U.S. Centers of Excellence operating as an integrated platform with 150+ CNC machines and a team of 250+ professionals.

Unlike large organizations where roles can be narrow, RTCA offers hands-on ownership and real visibility – you understand how your work supports the team, the operation, and the end customer. Our flat structure allows employees to take initiative, grow their skills, and have their contributions recognized, while still providing the stability, advanced technology, and meaningful work of an established aerospace manufacturer.

At RTCA, we believe in teamwork, excellence, and delivering with pride. One Team! One Mission!

How You’ll Make an Impact:

The Quality Engineering Associate I supports the Quality Department by assisting in the review, documentation, and compliance of customer and internal quality requirements. This role bridges administrative precision with foundational engineering understanding, ensuring that products meet stringent aerospace standards from order receipt through final delivery.


This position is ideal for individuals looking to grow into a Quality Engineer role—offering exposure to AS9100 quality management systems, contract review, document control, and continuous improvement initiatives.


What you’ll be doing as a Quality Engineering Associate:

  • Working a full-time, onsite position at our Fife, WA location.
  • Assist in contract reviews of customer purchase orders to ensure understanding and compliance with quality and engineering requirements.
  • Support review and release of internal work orders, verifying compliance with customer and internal standards.
  • Review and approve raw material and outside processing purchase orders, checking and recording specification revision levels.
  • Review and sign shipping pack slips, confirming that all required documentation accompanies each shipment.
  • Assist in creating and maintaining Certificates of Conformance (C of C) and related quality records.
  • Assign and log serial numbers for serialized components.
  • Assist in managing measuring tool calibration programs, including tracking and documentation.
  • Support the document control process, including filing, scanning, and maintaining controlled quality records.
  • Help maintain logs and records such as scrap reports, corrective actions, and audit findings.
  • Participate in internal auditing activities to AS9100 Rev D standards under supervision.
  • Collaborate with manufacturing, planning, and engineering teams to support compliance, configuration control, and quality objectives.
  • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives, corrective/preventive actions, and training programs.
  • Adhere to all company, state, and federal safety and compliance policies.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications (Education, skills and experience):

  • Highly organized and detail-oriented; able to handle multiple priorities with accuracy.
  • Works independently while remaining a strong team contributor.
  • Maintains focus and professionalism in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
  • Demonstrates a positive, proactive attitude and willingness to learn.

Preferred Qualifications (Education, skills and experience):

  • Bachelors degree in Engineering, Quality, or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.
  • 1–3 years of experience in aerospace manufacturing or quality-related roles preferred.
  • Knowledge of AS9100 and QMS principles required; formal training a plus.
  • Familiarity with job/work order flow, outside processing, and procurement documentation.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and MRP/ERP systems.
  • Basic understanding of root cause analysis and continuous improvement concepts (e.g., 8D, 5 Why, PDCA).
  • Experience in a machining or manufacturing environment preferred.
  • Ability to interpret technical documents, specifications, and quality requirements.

Physical Demands and Work Environment:
The physical demands and work environment described are representative of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.


While performing the duties of this role, the employee is frequently required to:

  • Lift or move up to 50 lbs.
  • Reach forward, up, down, and to the side
  • Stand and walk for extended periods
  • Use hands to handle, manipulate, or feel materials
  • Access, input, and retrieve information from a computer


Work is primarily performed in a machine shop environment with varying temperatures and potential exposure to noise, dust, fumes, and coolant vapors. Required safety equipment is provided and must be worn where designated.


Compensation and Benefits:


Employee Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; basic and supplemental life insurance; long-term disability; a 401(k) with up to a 6% QACA company match; paid time off including vacation, sick time, and nine (9) paid company holidays; shift differentials for applicable off-shifts; and discretionary bonus programs based on position and company performance.

The Quality Engineering Associate Compensation range for onsite Washington applicants is $20 - $23 per hour commensurate with experience. Some shifts may include shift differential pay rates. Other site ranges may differ.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

This position must meet Export Control compliance requirements, therefore a “US Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 is required.

RTCA is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex including sexual orientation and gender identity, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.


Affirmative Action and Disability Accommodation Applicants wishing to receive information on RTCA’s Affirmative Action Plans, or applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in the application and/or interview process, please contact the RTCA Human Resources Department. If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request an accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our career center as a result of your disability. To request an accommodation, contact the RTCA Human Resources Department. Candidates will receive consideration without discrimination in accordance with the requirements of article 9 to chapter XVIII of the City of Los Angeles Municipal Code, federal and state laws of California.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request an accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our career center as a result of your disability. To request an accommodation, contact the Human Resources Department.