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

Quality Engineer 1

Valdese, NC · On-site

$63K - $82K/yr

Associate's degree in engineering with bachelor's degree in business or related field is applicable. * ASQ quality engineer and Six Sigma certification a plus. * Willingness to pursue certifications.

Quality Engineer 1

Valdese, NC · On-site

$63K - $82K/yr

Associate's degree in engineering with bachelor's degree in business or related field is applicable. * ASQ quality engineer and Six Sigma certification a plus. * Willingness to pursue certifications.

Quality Engineer 1

Valdese, NC

$63K - $82K/yr

Associate's degree in engineering with bachelor's degree in business or related field is applicable. * ASQ quality engineer and Six Sigma certification a plus. * Willingness to pursue certifications.

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 ...

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 ...

Quality Technician - 2nd Shift

Newton, NC · On-site

$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 ...

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 ...

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

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

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 ...

Weld Manufacturing Engineer

Newton, NC · On-site

$68K - $87K/yr

This role focuses on process stability, quality, throughput, and cost efficiency while ensuring ... Dauch will not discriminate against any Associate or applicant for employment because of age, race ...

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Quality Engineer Associate information

See Hickory, NC salary details

$15

$29

$43

How much do quality engineer associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 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 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.

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.

Is quality engineer associate an entry-level job?

A quality engineer associate position is typically considered an entry-level role in quality assurance and engineering. It often requires basic knowledge of quality tools, inspection processes, and sometimes a relevant degree or certification, making it suitable for those starting their careers in quality management.

Do quality engineer associates make good money?

Quality Engineer Associates typically earn a median annual salary that is competitive within manufacturing and engineering fields, often ranging from $50,000 to $70,000 depending on experience, location, and industry. They may also receive benefits such as health insurance and opportunities for certification in quality management systems like Six Sigma or ISO standards.

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 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:

Infographic showing various Quality Engineer Associate job openings in Hickory, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,602 per year, or $29.1 per hour.

Quality Engineer 1

Saft America, Inc.

Valdese, NC • On-site

$63K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 hours ago


Job description

The Quality Engineer 1 role will provide quality support to the manufacturing plant through facilitation of quality initiatives in alignment with SES initiatives and report directly to the Quality Manager.  This is an entry level position.


  • Take the lead in defining, performing and supporting the quality assurance activities in specific cell and/or battery production.
  • Create and apply FMEA and Control Plan methods to assure the robustness of new and existing battery designs and processes.
  • Use statistical methods as appropriate to establish sampling and quality plans, determine process capability, implement control charts and inspections.
  • Analyze cell, battery performance data and process measurement data for special cause conditions and assist in implementing corrective actions.
  • Use quality palnning tools to ensure quality of new products, assist in design verification stage of new products and processes.
  • Design and implement experiments to assist with a process optimization, problem resolution, and new product development.
  • Contain and analyze customer returns and internal non-conforming materials. Assist Customer Service team with complaint resolution
  • Complete internal ISO audits as assigned. Work with audit teams to make system more effective.
  • Educate others on quality tools and principles.
  • Perform/assist in incoming inspection activities.
  • Document control as applicable to testing and inspection of products from incoming to packaging as per work instructions and quality plans.
  • Any other duties as assigned.

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field is desired. Associate's degree in engineering with bachelor's degree in business or related field is applicable.
  • ASQ quality engineer and Six Sigma certification a plus.
  • Willingness to pursue certifications.
  • Minimum 7 years' experience in a manufacturing environment, with 5 years' experience in quality role a must.
  • Advanced knowledge of FMEA, control Plan, and SPC approach for risk mitigation.
  • Practical knowledge and application of quality principles and requirements.
  • Ability to interpret product engineering specifications and prints.
  • Practical application of measurement tools and systems.
  • Advanced experience with statistical analysis software and basic Microsoft office a plus.
  • Understanding of ISO 9001 quality management standard required.
  • Member of the internal audit team with knowledge of Quality Management Systems and used to internal audit tools.
  • Work independently under the direction of standards. Good verbal and written communication skills.
  • Excellent project management skills.
  • Ability to influence change. Balancing and prioritization of activities.

Whether you are just getting started or are an experienced professional, we offer a robust total rewards package to include generous compensation based on market standards, healthcare, wellness, adoption assistance, discounted stock purchase, career development and recognition programs. Some of our superior benefits include parental (maternal and paternal) leave, 401K retirement contribution match at 7%, educational assistance (tuition reimbursement), Short-term Disability (STD), paid holidays, paid vacation, and paid employee referral award.

We appreciate diverse skills/experience and yours could add immense value to our team. Our customers have varied backgrounds and so do our employees. If you are excited about leaving your footprint on our technical customer-centric solutions while increasing sales, we would love to hear from you.

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to providing employment opportunities regardless of sex, race, creed, color, gender, religion, marital status, domestic partner status, age national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, pregnancy, military or veteran status, and genetic information. If you require an accommodation to complete the application or interview process, please contact us by email at reasonableaccommodation@saft.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.


Saft is a global battery company like no other! Our long experience and pioneering spirit, combined with our unique industrial approach, puts us in a leading position to meet the needs of the most demanding customers.  Our batteries and battery systems make a different in every market sector they serve.

Established in 19 countries and supported by our 16 production sites, Saft has more than 4,300 employees around the world and more than 3,000 customers across a range of industries. 

Since 2016, Saft is a wholly owned subsidiary of TotalEnergies, a global integrated energy company that produces and markets various forms of energy, including oil, biofuels, natural gas, green gases, renewables, and electricity. With 100,000 employees, TotalEnergies is committed to provide reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy to as many people as possible.  The company operates in approximately 120 countries and places sustainability at the core of its strategy, projects, and operations.


USD $0.00 - USD $0.00 /Yr.