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Quality Engineer Associate Jobs in Hickory, NC (NOW HIRING)

Aampower

Quality Engineer

Newton, NC

$67K - $87K/yr

Job Posting Title Quality Engineer Summary Dauch is seeking a Quality Engineer to join our team in ... Dauch will not discriminate against any Associate or applicant for employment because of age, race ...

American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc.

Quality Engineer

Newton, NC · On-site

$67K - $87K/yr

Job Posting Title Quality Engineer Summary Dauch is seeking a Quality Engineer to join our team in ... Dauch will not discriminate against any Associate or applicant for employment because of age, race ...

American Axle & Manufacturing

Quality Engineer

Newton, NC · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Dauch is seeking a Quality Engineer to join our team in Newton, North Carolina. This fully onsite ... EEO / Diversity Statement Dauch will not discriminate against any Associate or applicant for ...

Denso

Quality Engineer 2

Statesville, NC · On-site

$73K - $91K/yr

Under moderate supervision, the Quality Engineer 2 ensures that all customer quality issues are ... Provides assistance for associates in areas of quality improvement, (i.e. SPC, measuring problem ...

Denso

Quality Engineer 2

Statesville, NC

$73K - $91K/yr

Under moderate supervision, the Quality Engineer 2 ensures that all customer quality issues are ... Provides assistance for associates in areas of quality improvement, (i.e. SPC, measuring problem ...

Aampower

Quality Technician - 2nd Shift

Newton, NC

$16.75 - $22.75/hr

Assists Quality Engineers with tracking of PPAP/PTR, trail or deviated parts, as well as management ... Dauch will not discriminate against any Associate or applicant for employment because of age, race ...

US Conec, Ltd.

Quality Assurance Technician

Hickory, NC · On-site

Associate degree in a technical discipline or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience. * Experience performing quality inspections in a manufacturing, engineering, or technical ...

Aampower

Contributor Qual Sup Applying

Newton, NC

Job Posting Title Contributor Qual Sup Applying Summary Support production, quality and engineering ... Dauch will not discriminate against any Associate or applicant for employment because of age, race ...

Denso

Manufacturing Engineering Manager

Statesville, NC · On-site

$96K - $120K/yr

Manage engineering associates performing the following activities: * Troubleshoots production ... Provides technical support to production in order to solve problems related to quality ...

US Conec, Ltd.

CMM Programmer

Hickory, NC

Associate degree in Engineering Technology, Manufacturing, Quality, or a related technical field * Experience with FARO Arms, Romer Arms, and portable metrology systems * Experience supporting First ...

Aampower

Manufacturing Engineer

Newton, NC

$68K - $87K/yr

This role focuses on process optimization, cost reduction, quality improvement, and supporting new ... Dauch will not discriminate against any Associate or applicant for employment because of age, race ...

Blum, Inc

QA Product and Process Technician

Stanley, NC · On-site

Train supervisors, team leaders, and production associates on quality systems and product quality standards. * Collaborate with Production, Engineering, Materials, Warehouse, Customer Service, and ...

Blum, Inc

QA Product and Process Technician

Stanley, NC · On-site

Train supervisors, team leaders, and production associates on quality systems and product quality standards. * Collaborate with Production, Engineering, Materials, Warehouse, Customer Service, and ...

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All JobsQuality Engineer Associate JobsQuality Engineer Associate Jobs in Hickory, NC

Quality Engineer Associate information

See Hickory, NC salary details

$15

$29

$43

How much do quality engineer associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for quality engineer associate in Hickory, NC is $29.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.22 and $33.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a quality engineer associate do?

A Quality Engineer Associate supports the quality assurance and control processes within manufacturing or production environments. Their responsibilities typically include inspecting products, monitoring production processes, assisting with quality audits, and helping to implement quality standards and procedures. They work closely with senior quality engineers and production teams to identify defects, resolve quality issues, and ensure that products meet required specifications. This entry-level role is a great starting point for a career in quality engineering, as it provides hands-on experience with quality systems and tools.

What are some common challenges a quality engineer associate might face in their daily work?

Quality Engineer Associates often encounter challenges such as balancing multiple projects with tight deadlines, interpreting complex product specifications, and effectively communicating quality standards to cross-functional teams. They may also need to troubleshoot unexpected production issues and adapt quickly to new processes or technologies. Developing strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as building collaborative relationships with manufacturing, engineering, and quality assurance teams, can help overcome these challenges.

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

To thrive as a Quality Engineer Associate, you need a solid understanding of quality control principles, data analysis, and basic engineering concepts, usually supported by a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as statistical process control (SPC), Six Sigma methodologies, and quality management systems (QMS) is often required, and certifications like ASQ CQE can be beneficial. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you collaborate across teams and address quality issues proactively. These skills are vital for ensuring product reliability, compliance with standards, and continuous improvement in manufacturing or service processes.

What is the difference between Quality Engineer Associate vs Quality Technician?

AspectQuality Engineer AssociateQuality Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in engineering or related field; certifications like ASQ CQE are a plusUsually requires a high school diploma or associate degree; certifications like CQI or CQT are common
Work EnvironmentInvolves analysis, process improvement, and collaboration with engineering teamsFocuses on inspection, testing, and data collection on the production floor
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and electronics industriesCommonly employed in manufacturing and production settings

The Quality Engineer Associate and Quality Technician roles share a focus on quality assurance but differ mainly in responsibilities and required education. The associate typically engages in process analysis and improvement, while the technician concentrates on testing and inspection tasks. Both roles are vital in maintaining product quality within manufacturing industries.

Are quality engineer associates paid well?

Quality engineer associates typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, but with skills in quality management tools and certifications, salaries can increase significantly over time.

Is a Quality Engineer Associate an entry level job?

A Quality Engineer Associate is typically considered an entry-level position in quality assurance and engineering. It often requires basic knowledge of quality tools, inspection processes, and sometimes certifications like Six Sigma Green Belt, making it suitable for those starting their careers in quality roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Quality Engineer jobs in Hickory, NC?

The most popular types of Quality Engineer jobs in Hickory, NC are:

What cities near Hickory, NC are hiring for Quality Engineer Associate jobs?

Cities near Hickory, NC with the most Quality Engineer Associate job openings:

Quality Engineer Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Quality Engineer Associate job openings in Hickory, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,602 per year, or $29.1 per hour.

Quality Engineer

Aampower

Newton, NC

$67K - $87K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Develop, implement, and maintain quality assurance and control processes.

  • Monitor production operations to ensure compliance with quality standards and specifications.

  • Perform root cause analysis of defects and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).

Job description

Job Posting Title

Quality Engineer

Job Description Summary

Dauch is seeking a Quality Engineer to join our team in Newton, North Carolina. This fully onsite role ensures that products and processes meet established quality standards and customer expectations. This role requires direct communication with OEM customers and involves developing quality control systems, monitoring production performance, identifying defects, and driving continuous improvement initiatives.
The ideal candidate has 2+ years of progressive experience in process optimization, manufacturing engineering, or industrial engineering within a production environment. Preferred qualifications include excellent written and verbal communication skills, strong problem solving and analytical skills, and Shainin certification.

Job Description:

  • Develops, implements, and maintains quality assurance and control processes.

  • Monitors production operations to ensure compliance with quality standards and specifications.

  • Performs root cause analysis of defects and implements corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).

  • Conducts internal audits and support external audits (customer, regulatory, IATF, etc.).

  • Collaborates with cross-functional teams (engineering, manufacturing, supply chain) to resolve quality issues.

  • Analyzes quality data and drives improvement activities to achieve established KPIs (scrap cost, NRFT, FTT).

  • Leads continuous improvement and value saving initiatives using tools such as Lean, Six Sigma, or Kaizen.

  • Reviews engineering designs, specifications, and changes to identify potential quality risks.

  • Ensures compliance with regulatory and industry standards (IATF-16949, ISO-9001, and ISO-14001).

  • Trains staff on quality standards, procedures, and best practices.

  • All other duties as assigned.

Required Skills and Education

  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or a related technical field.

  • 2+ years of experience in quality engineering or quality assurance, preferably within an automotive environment.

  • Strong GD&T skills and ability to read blueprints.

  • Strong knowledge of quality tools and methodologies (e.g., FMEA, SPC, Control Plans, PPAP).

  • Experience with root cause analysis techniques (e.g., 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagram).

  • Proficiency in data analysis tools (Excel, Minitab, or similar).


About Dauch:

Dauch Corporation is a premier Driveline and Metal Forming supplier serving the global automotive industry with a powertrain-agnostic product portfolio that supports electric, hybrid, and internal combustion vehicles. The company is headquartered in Detroit, MI, with operations that span 24 countries and more than 175 locations. Formed through the acquisition of Dowlais Group plc and its subsidiaries - GKN Automotive and GKN Powder Metallurgy, Dauch unites deep engineering roots with global manufacturing capabilities and an entrepreneurial spirit to move mobility forward. Visit www.dauch.com to learn more.


Dauch will not discriminate against any Associate or applicant for employment because of age, race, color, gender, religion, weight, height, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic history or information, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, national origin, or other characteristic protected by law. Dauch will take affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed, and that Associates are treated equally during employment, without regard to their age, race, color, gender, religion, weight, height, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic history or information, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, national origin, or other characteristic protected by law. For the Disabled Job Seeker: We offer reasonable accommodations for qualified disabled individuals who are applicants for employment. To request assistance or accommodations, please e-mail TalentAcquisition@aam.com. Dauch is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

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