The role of a quality engineer is to ensure that products and services meet customer expectations by identifying problems before they occur, developing solutions, implementing those solutions, and monitoring the results. This includes ensuring that all products and services meet safety requirements, comply with applicable regulations, and perform according to specifications.
A quality engineer may be involved in any stage of product development from initial design through final release. They work closely with other disciplines such as engineering, manufacturing, marketing, sales, purchasing, finance, human resources, legal, etc., to ensure that the product meets its intended purpose.
Roles and Responsibilities for Quality Engineer
The responsibilities of a quality engineer vary by industry and organization. Some companies may require employees to perform additional duties such as training new hires, managing the quality control department, improving product quality, and helping to develop new products. Other organizations may focus on specific areas of expertise, such as food safety, pharmaceutical manufacturing, or medical device development.
The quality engineer tests products using one or more methods to determine whether they meet specified criteria. Testing usually involves inspecting parts or components for defects. During the inspection process, quality engineers use test plans to document what will be tested, how it will be measured, and when the measurements will be performed.
When a nonconformity is identified, the quality engineer initiates corrective actions. Their primary goal is to identify potential problems early so that they can be resolved before any harm occurs. They create and maintain records documenting their findings, recommendations, and remediation measures.
Typical Role and Responsibilities:
1) Create quality standards
2) Develop and implement quality control procedures
3) Identify and prioritize quality issues and risks
4) Conduct root cause analysis to identify underlying causes
5) Recommend solutions and remedial action
6) Monitor and report quality data
7) Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements
8) Evaluate the effectiveness of corrective actions
9) Manage change requests
10) Maintain documentation
11) Provide input into strategic planning
12) Perform audits
13) Participate in quality improvement projects
14) Review and approve supplier documents
15) Work with vendors and suppliers to ensure high-quality materials and services
16) Determine needs for improvements and suggest cost-effective ways to address them
Qualifications for Quality Engineer
The most common degree program for this job is a bachelor's degree in engineering, science, mathematics, computer science, or another related field. However, some employers prefer candidates who have completed an advanced degree (master's degree, Ph.D., etc.) in industrial engineering, operations research, statistics, biostatistics, software engineering, quality management, or similar fields.
In addition to education, some quality assurance/engineering experience is required for this position. Employers look for at least two years of relevant work experience.
Skills Required for a Career in Quality Engineering
The skills required for this job vary depending on the type of product being manufactured. For example, if a company produces medical equipment, they will require different skills than those needed for a car manufacturer. Some of the most common skills include problem-solving, communication, leadership, teamwork, critical thinking, decision making, project management, analytical thinking, statistical analysis, interpersonal skills, and teamwork.
Becoming a Quality Engineer
The first step in becoming a quality engineer is obtaining a bachelor's degree in engineering from a reputable university. This will provide the foundation to understand the basic principles of engineering and allow you to gain experience in various fields. After graduation, you'll likely take a certification exam to become a Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). Certification allows employers to view your skills and knowledge in a specific field.
Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)
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Quality Engineer Salaries
The average annual salary for a quality engineer in the United States was $94,000 in 2021, according to the ASQ salary survey.
The average salary of quality engineers without CQE certification was $89,000, and for the respondents with CQE certification, this average was $99,000. Based on this, you can say that, on average, having a CQE certificate from ASQ added $10,000 per year to the salary.
Top Industries with a Demand for Quality Engineers
Manufacturing, Construction, Healthcare, Utilities & Energy, Education, Retail, and Public Services are all industries where there is a need for quality engineers.
Quality Engineering Training
We offer an online course that will teach you all you need to know to become an effective quality engineer. This course is fully aligned with the ASQ CQE body of knowledge. Many students have used this course to pass their CQE exam on their first attempt successfully.