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

Aampower

Manufacturing Engineering Manager

Newton, NC · On-site

$102K - $127K/yr

This individual will ensure efficient, cost-effective, and high-quality production while supporting ... Dauch will not discriminate against any Associate or applicant for employment because of age, race ...

Unify Recruit

Senior CMM Programmer

Mooresville, NC · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

About the Role We're seeking a skilled CMM Programmer to join our Quality Assurance team and play a ... High school diploma or GED required; associate degree or technical certification preferred. * 5+ ...

Timken

Senior Metallurgical Engineer

Lincolnton, NC · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

... quality, performance, or cost of Timken products. * Leads Metallurgical Laboratory associates and ... Bachelors degree in metallurgy, materials or engineering required. Preferred Qualifications ...

US Conec, Ltd.

Associate Product Manager

Hickory, NC · On-site

This role serves as a key liaison between Sales, Engineering, Marketing, Operations, Quality, and Supply Chain teams to drive product innovation, optimize market performance, and deliver exceptional ...

Volkert Inc

CEI Inspector

Hickory, NC · On-site

Associate degree in an applicable area of Engineering Technology, Survey Technology or a related ... and quality of life throughout our communities. We are proud of our one-hundred-year legacy and ...

US Conec, Ltd.

Associate Product Manager

Hickory, NC

This role serves as a key liaison between Sales, Engineering, Marketing, Operations, Quality, and Supply Chain teams to drive product innovation, optimize market performance, and deliver exceptional ...

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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 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.

Production Associate - Mandrel Processing

Utility Solutions, Inc

Hickory, NC • On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Founded in 1990, Utility Solutions is a designer and manufacturer of hot-line tools and products for the electrical power industry. Our success is based on working as a team to deliver high-quality products and unsurpassed customer service. We believe that each team member contributes directly to our growth and success as a company. Come grow with us!

We are seeking a Production Associate to join our team in Hickory, NC!

Job Summary:

The Fiberglass Production Associate reports to the Production Supervisor. This position focuses on processing fiberglass components correctly and efficiently.

Duties and Essential Job Functions:

  • Process and prepare fiberglass components for final assembly: tasks include operating the unwinder, operating the puller, operating the saw, and waxing mandrels, etc.

  • Follow Work Orders

  • Operate unwinder machine safely according to approved standard operating procedures (SOPs)

  • Operate puller machine according to approved standard operating procedures (SOPs)

  • Operate fiberglass saw safely according to approved standard operating procedures (SOPs)

  • Responsible for meeting or exceeding all established quality standards

  • Maintains safe and clean working environment by complying with procedures, rules, and regulations

  • Conserves resources by using equipment and supplies as needed to accomplish job results

  • Document actions by completing production and quality forms

  • Contributes to team effort by accomplishing other tasks as needed

Experiences / Skills Required:

  • Must have the ability to work in a team atmosphere to obtain common goals and objectives.

  • Demonstrates effective listening skills.

  • Ability to read, comprehend and follow verbal and written instructions.

  • Ability to meet deadlines, concentrate and pay close attention to detail.

  • Adaptability and willingness to perform all given duties.

  • Strong safety orientation.  Perform all tasks in a safe and responsible manner.

  • Ability to read and comprehend blueprints and specifications provided by engineering.

  • Basic understanding of conventional measuring tools and techniques, to assure compliance with technical specifications.

  • Must be able to multi-task

  • Excellent hand eye coordination

Requirements:

  • High school degree or GED equivalent

  • Manufacturing experience preferred

Physical Requirements:

  • Production environment: dust and grease are common. Significant risks from equipment and environment require constant care and vigilance.  Be able to stand for long periods of time and carry up to 50+ lbs.  While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands and hand tools to assemble parts and to reach with hands and arms.

Schedule: 
6:00am-4:30pm Monday-Thursday

Pay:

$16-18/hr

Note: Some production associate positions are temp-to-hire working 520 hours through our associated agency depending on business needs.

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