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Quality Engineer Associate Jobs in Wichita, KS (NOW HIRING)

Quality Inspector Job Type: Full time; Consultant (Could be temp to perm or long term) Location ... engineering associates into roles all across the nation. Since our founding in 1977, we have ...

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Quality Engineer Associate information

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$15

$29

$43

How much do quality engineer associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for quality engineer associate in Wichita, KS is $29.11, 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 Wichita, KS?

The most popular types of Quality Engineer jobs in Wichita, KS are:

What cities near Wichita, KS are hiring for Quality Engineer Associate jobs?

Cities near Wichita, KS with the most Quality Engineer Associate job openings:

Quality Engineer (Associate, Mid-Level, or Senior)

Spirit AeroSystems

Wichita, KS • On-site

$106K - $164K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago


Spirit AeroSystems rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Overview
This role is at Spirit AeroSystems, Inc. a wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Company, supporting Spirit's Commercial Business Units ("Spirit Commercial"). Spirit Commercial designs and builds commercial aerostructures, including for Boeing Commercial Airplanes, one of Boeing's three business units and the premier manufacturer of commercial jetliners for decades. Spirit Commercial's core products include fuselages, pylons, nacelles and wing components, with a focus on innovative composite and aluminum manufacturing solutions.
Responsibilities
Position Responsibilities:
  • Develops processes, systems, and equipment to uphold quality, reliability, and system safety standards for company or procured products and services
  • Provides review and analysis of quality system design to ensure the integrity of decisions impacting products and services
  • Analyzes contractual, product definition, and specification requirements to develop or modify methods, procedures, and metrics for achieving quality standards
  • Evaluates and provides dispositions for nonconforming materials, parts, and equipment
  • Conducts scientific evaluations, audits, and analyses
  • Tests and approves products, processes, equipment, and measurement systems
  • Ensures processes incorporate configuration management and participates in design and product reviews to meet quality, reliability, safety, and business objectives
  • Conducts research, benchmarking, and analysis to improve process capability and product quality
  • Performs root cause analyses and supports corrective action implementation to address nonconformance issues
  • Interfaces with employees, suppliers, customers, and regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with requirements
  • Utilizes statistical methodologies to maintain or enhance safety, reliability, and process capability levels
  • Submit job planning change requests on behalf of quality organization

This position is expected to be 100% onsite. The selected candidate will be required to work onsite at our Wichita, KS, location
Qualifications
Basic Qualifications (Required Skills and Experience):
  • Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering from an ABET-accredited Engineering program
  • 2+ years of experience in Quality Engineering or a related engineering field
  • Must be proficient in Microsoft products such as Power Point, Excel, and Word
  • Data Analytics
  • Working with engineering drawings and customer specification
  • Must have good communication skills
  • RCCA Experience

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):
  • Mid-Level (Level 3): 5+ years of related work experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Senior (Level 4): 10+ years of related work experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Project Management Experience
  • Aerospace background
  • Proficiency in technical writing
  • Experience in strategic planning and operations
  • Competence in conducting quality audits, including process and product auditing (process control documents)
  • Self-motivated; taking ownership of projects and issues, including follow through to closure and resolution

Union:
This is a union-represented position.
Drug Free Workplace:
We are a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.
Pay & Benefits:
We strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.
We also provide eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.
The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Summary Pay Range - Associate (Level 2): $71,100- $109,000
Summary Pay Range - Mid-Level (Level 3): $85,850 - $131,600
Summary Pay Range - Senior Level (Level 4): $106,950 - $164,000
Kansas Tax Credit: Join Spirit AeroSystems' Kansas team and you may be eligible for a $5,000 state of Kansas Aviation tax credit for up to five years. Click here for more information on the tax credit.

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