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

Quality Engineer

Kent, WA · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

The Position The Quality Engineer is responsible for supporting the plant's Quality Management System (QMS), executing audit activities, driving continuous improvement initiatives, and supporting ...

Quality Engineer

Seattle, WA · Hybrid

$85K - $145K/yr

Quality Engineer Zeno is seeking a highly motivated Quality Engineer in our Seattle office to support the mission-oriented efforts of developing and bringing to market Radioisotope Power Systems (RPS ...

Quality Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$91K - $128K/yr

Establish quality standards for products and processes and suggest modifications meant to prevent defects in components or final products. Work closely with cross-functional teams, including product ...

Quality Engineer

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$95K - $125K/yr

Quality Engineer At AST, we enhance the efficiency, productivity, and safety of flexible aseptic manufacturing processes for the worldwide Life Science Industry by offering innovative products ...

Quality Engineer

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$95K - $125K/yr

Quality Engineer At AST, we enhance the efficiency, productivity, and safety of flexible aseptic manufacturing processes for the worldwide Life Science Industry by offering innovative products ...

Quality Engineer BELONG. CONNECT. GROW. with KBR. Around here, we define the future. We are a company of innovators, thinkers, creators, explorers, volunteers, and dreamers. But we all share one goal ...

Sales Associate

Puyallup, WA · On-site

$16.28 - $35/hr

At Quality Sewing & Vacuum , we've been helping customers and communities throughout Washington for ... Most Sales Associates earn $20-$35+ per hour (base pay plus uncapped commission) * 401(k) with ...

QA Coordinator - Bev

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$87K - $104K/yr

Position Overview The Quality Assurance Coordinator supports the site's Food Safety, Quality, and ... Associate discounts * Health and financial well-being benefits for eligible associates (Medical ...

Analyst I, Quality Assurance

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$30.45 - $42.83/hr

At all times, Associates may be required to follow any instruction and to perform any other duties ... Bachelor degree in quality assurance, business, management, engineering preferred. * Personal ...

Analyst I, Quality Assurance

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$30.45 - $42.83/hr

At all times, Associates may be required to follow any instruction and to perform any other duties ... Bachelor degree in quality assurance, business, management, engineering preferred. * Personal ...

Showing results 21-40

Quality Associate information

See Maple Valley, WA salary details

$12

$31

$58

How much do quality associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 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 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.

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 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 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:

Infographic showing various Quality Associate job openings in Maple Valley, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,806 per year, or $31.2 per hour.

$110K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

The Position
The Quality Engineer is responsible for supporting the plant's Quality Management System (QMS), executing audit activities, driving continuous improvement initiatives, and supporting manufacturing quality objectives. This position works closely with operations, engineering, suppliers, and customers to improve product quality, ensure compliance with quality standards, and enhance process performance.
Salary Range: $110,000/year to $125,000/year
Key Responsibilities
  • Execute plant quality auditing activities and conduct internal quality system and process audits.
  • Serve as Lead Auditor for plant quality system and process audits.
  • Organize and coordinate plant calibration activities.
  • Supervise and schedule the plant's hourly specialty (mechanical) testers.
  • Participate in the disposition of internal nonconformances and external customer returns (RGAs).
  • Assign, track, and maintain Corrective Action Requests (CARs) and verify implementation effectiveness.
  • Support shipping certification activities for specialty products.
  • Maintain PPAPs, Control Plans, Process Flow Diagrams, and PFMEAs.
  • Lead and participate in disciplined problem-solving activities utilizing methodologies such as 8D, 5 Whys, and Root Cause Analysis.
  • Lead and participate in process improvement and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Participate in the Management of Change (MOC) process to evaluate and mitigate quality risks.
  • Complete Measurement Systems Analysis (MSA) and Gage R&R studies.
  • Implement and maintain data collection systems for critical quality metrics.
  • Collect, analyze, and interpret quality and process data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.
  • Participate in the creation, review, and maintenance of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Standard Work Instructions (SWIs).
  • Design and implement tools, equipment, inspection methods, and process controls to improve product quality and manufacturing performance.
  • Support supplier quality initiatives and supplier qualification activities.
  • Participate in internal and external audits and support timely resolution of audit findings.
  • Perform other continuous improvement and quality-related assignments as directed.

Job Requirements
Education & Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related technical discipline preferred.
  • Minimum five (5) years of quality engineering experience in a manufacturing environment.
  • Certified Lead Auditor for the ISO 9001 Quality Management System required.
  • Strong knowledge of Quality Management Systems, auditing principles, and regulatory compliance requirements.
  • Experience with PPAP, Control Plans, Process Flow Diagrams, PFMEA, MSA, SPC, and Root Cause Analysis methodologies.
  • Knowledge and experience in Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, Total Quality Management (TQM), Kaizen, Design of Experiments (DOE), FMEA, and other continuous improvement methodologies preferred.
  • Strong background in supplier management and supplier qualification processes.
  • Superior organizational, analytical, problem-solving, multitasking, written, and verbal communication skills.
  • Effective negotiation, conflict resolution, presentation, and facilitation skills.
  • Ability to work effectively with employees at all levels and external business partners while maintaining a positive, customer-focused approach.
  • Strong leadership and influence capabilities.
  • Ability to perform effectively as both a team leader and team member.
  • Must be able to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing, to follow safety procedures, understand work instructions, complete documentation, and communicate with coworkers and supervisors.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Access, Project, and quality management software applications.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Continuous Improvement, Kaizen, and Total Productive Maintenance (TPM).
  • Demonstrated experience implementing Lean tools and methodologies including:
    • Value Stream Mapping
    • 5S
    • Kanban/Pull Production Systems
    • Visual Management
    • Standardized Work
    • Root Cause Analysis
    • Continuous Flow Manufacturing
  • Knowledge of ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems.
  • Experience in a union manufacturing environment.

Physical Requirements
  • Must be able to use a variety of hand tools such as wrenches, screwdrivers, hammers, etc.
  • Must be able to work in a dusty environment around metals
  • Sight - hand and eye coordination, depth perception needed to operate, adjust, and quantify chemicals and equipment, vision sufficient to inspect work areas and building for issues and operate computers
  • Hearing - must be able to hear others and warning sounds of forklift and other heavy machinery
  • Speech - must be able to communicate effectively with others while working
  • Smell - must be able to smell various chemicals and gasses
  • Must be able to sit, stand, and walk for long periods - frequent to constant
  • Must be able to squat, stoop, twist, climb, crawl, reach, grasp, and fine manipulation, and bend occasional to frequent
  • Must be able to be able to lift/carry 50+ lbs - occasional

Success Measures
  • Successful execution of internal and external audit requirements.
  • Reduction in quality defects, scrap, and customer complaints.
  • Timely closure and effectiveness of corrective actions.
  • Improvement in process capability and operational performance.
  • Effective maintenance of quality documentation and records.
  • Successful implementation of continuous improvement initiatives and quality improvement projects.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.