Quality Associate Jobs in Rio Rico, AZ (NOW HIRING)

The Quality Engineer – Level II is an experienced quality professional responsible for independently executing and improving quality assurance processes across manufacturing and inspection operations. This role applies advanced quality tools, statistical methods, and systems thinking to ensure compliance with the Quality Management System and to drive measurable improvements in product quality, process capability, and operational efficiency.

The Level II Quality Engineer demonstrates proficiency across core quality competencies and serves as a technical resource to peers, manufacturing, engineering, and cross-functional partners.

Essential Functions:

Quality Systems & Compliance

• Maintain and improve elements of the Quality Management System in accordance with ISO 9001, ISO 14001, AS9100, ISO13485, and other applicable standards.
• Support internal and external audits by preparing documentation, responding to findings, and implementing corrective actions.
• Ensure quality requirements are properly flowed down through procedures, control plans, and work instructions.

Corrective Action & Problem Solving

• Independently lead Root Cause and Corrective Action (CAR) investigations using structured methodologies.
• Verify effectiveness of corrective actions and ensure sustainable prevention of recurrence.
• Analyze trends in CARs, defects, and returns to identify revealing patterns and systemic issues.

Inspection, Metrology & Calibration

• Develop, review, and maintain QA control plans and inspection plans for products and processes.
• Support and manage calibration and measurement systems, including MSA activities.
• Provide metrology expertise to Quality, Manufacturing, and Engineering teams.
• Support and perform source inspection activities, including preparation of inspection criteria, review of results, and verification of conformance prior to shipment.

Data Analysis & Continuous Improvement

• Apply statistical analysis tools (e.g., Minitab) to assess process capability, stability, and performance.
• Facilitate DOE, FMEA, and process capability studies as required.
• Lead or support continuous improvement initiatives, including 6S and Lean/Six Sigma activities.
• Analyze PPAP and validation data to assess process capability and readiness for production release.

Documentation & Process Control

• Create, revise, and maintain controlled quality documentation including procedures, work instructions, and forms.
• Support the transfer of inspection and testing methods from Engineering or R&D into Manufacturing.
• Participate in process documentation development with cross-functional stakeholders.
• Support and manage PPAP activities, including review and approval of control plans, inspection plans, FAI results, and capability data for new or modified products.

Collaboration & Technical Leadership

• Provide technical guidance and informal training to Quality Engineers, Technicians, and Inspectors.
• Act as a quality point of contact for cross-functional teams to resolve complex quality issues.
• Contribute to cross-functional initiatives involving Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Engineering, and Customer Service.
• Communicate quality requirements, findings, and corrective actions effectively across global sites, suppliers, and cross-functional teams.

To perform this position successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Required and Preferred Skills & Abilities:

The qualifications listed below represent the knowledge, skills, and experience typically expected for this role. Candidates who meet most, but not all, of the qualifications are encouraged to apply.

• Proficient knowledge of optical, mechanical, and dimensional testing and inspection methods and related equipment.
• Proficient application of statistical concepts and methods to support measurement, process capability, and data-driven decision making.
• Demonstrated experience using statistical analysis software (e.g., Minitab; Power BI preferred) to analyze trends and variability.
• Proficient interpretation and application of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) for inspection planning and acceptance criteria.
• Applied experience using Lean and Six Sigma principles and tools to support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Working knowledge of ISO9001, AS9100, ISO13485 certified Quality Management Systems; experience supporting audits and maintaining controlled documentation.
• Demonstrated ability to independently evaluate, troubleshoot, and resolve complex quality and process-related issues.
• Proficient experience applying Measurement Systems Analysis (MSA) concepts to ensure measurement reliability.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate technical quality requirements effectively across global teams and stakeholders.
• Effective collaboration and interpersonal skills, including the ability to work across Quality, Manufacturing, Engineering, and Supply Chain.
• Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint); experience with data visualization tools preferred.
• Experience supporting source inspection and PPAP documentation activities within a manufacturing or supplier environment.

Education/Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Optics, or related technical discipline or equivalent relevant Quality experience.
• Typically 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing or industrial quality environment.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt required, in progress, or equivalent demonstrated experience.
• ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) preferred or equivalent demonstrated experience.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while performing inspection or analysis tasks.

Other Requirements:

• U.S. Citizenship or permanent residence required

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. 

Think you meet some of the requirements but not all? Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs for which they do not meet every qualification. If you see a role that interests you, we encourage you to apply, regardless of whether or not your experience is completely aligned with the job description. Edmund Optics is committed to becoming the most diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace within the Optics and Photonics Industry and beyond. You may be a great candidate for this role or others within Edmund Optics.

Compensation Range Transparency:

At Edmund Optics, we are committed to transparency and equity in our hiring practices. The posted salary range for this role reflects the expected base pay. The actual offer will be based on multiple factors, including but not limited to relevant skills, education, work experience, business needs, and geographic location.

Salary Range:
$72,000 - $82,000 per year

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Life, AD&D, Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Tuition Reimbursement
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match up to 3%
• Daycare and Gym Reimbursement
• Paid Parental Leave and New Mother Benefits
• Training and Development Opportunities

Availability of these benefits may depend on the country and employment type.