Jr. Quality Engineer

Overview Consider joining the Pennex family as a Jr. Quality Engineer in our Leetonia, OH facility. We are seeking a detail-oriented Jr. Quality Engineer to join our quality team. This entry-level position is ideal for someone eager to apply engineering principles to ensure the highest quality standards in our products and processes. This position works closely with the quality engineers and cross-functional teams to support quality initiatives, monitor product performance, and implement improvements. Responsibilities Assists in the development, implementation, and maintenance of quality control processes, procedures, and documentation. Conducts inspections and tests on raw materials, in-process materials, and finished products to ensure they meet quality standards. Collects, analyzes, and reports on quality data, including defect rates, process variances, and performance trends. Assists in identifying root causes of defects or non-conformance and support corrective actions and preventive measures. Assists in conducting audits of production processes and product performance to ensure compliance with quality specifications. Collaborates with cross-functional teams, including production, engineering, and R&D, to address quality issues and drive continuous improvement. Supports the implementation of new quality initiatives and best practices. Ensures compliance with regulatory standards and industry best practices. Documents test results, inspections, and quality issues clearly and accurately. Helps maintain quality control documentation, reports, and records. Other duties as assigned. Qualifications Education and Experience: Associate’s degree in Engineering, Quality Assurance, or a related Technical field or equivalent experience required. Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Quality Assurance, or a related Technical field preferred. Three or more years of experience in a quality role.  Required Skills/Abilities: Technology Experience: Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint). Attention to Detail: Ability to spot small inconsistencies, defects, or deviations from standards in products and processes. Problem-Solving Skills: Capability to identify root causes of quality issues and come up with corrective actions or improvements. Basic Understanding of Quality Control and Quality Assurance: Familiarity with quality management principles, methodologies, and tools like root cause analysis, FMEA (Failure Mode Effects Analysis), control charts, and Pareto analysis. Knowledge of Industry Standards: Understanding of quality standards such as ISO 9001, Six Sigma, ISO/TS 16949, or ASTM guidelines, depending on the industry. Statistical Analysis and Data Interpretation: Ability to work with data, perform basic statistical analysis, and use software like Excel for trend analysis, process control, and decision-making. Strong Communication Skills: Ability to clearly communicate quality issues, report findings, and work collaboratively with cross-functional teams (e.g., engineering, production, and management). Familiarity with Inspection and Testing Techniques: Basic knowledge of various testing methods like visual inspections, dimensional measurements, non-destructive testing, and using tools such as micrometers and calipers. Proficiency with Quality Management Software: Familiarity with quality software tools or Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and Quality Management Systems (QMS). Process Improvement Mindset: An understanding of continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma) and a willingness to contribute ideas for improving efficiency, reducing waste, and enhancing product quality. Basic Knowledge of Manufacturing Processes: Understanding of common manufacturing processes (e.g., machining, injection molding, assembly) to better evaluate and improve product quality. Time Management: Ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines, especially in a fast-paced production environment. Teamwork and Collaboration: Ability to work in a team setting, collaborating with engineers, production staff, and other departments to solve quality issues and ensure standards are met. Adaptability and Willingness to Learn: Openness to learning new tools, systems, and techniques, and the flexibility to adapt to evolving quality standards or process changes. Must be able to pass pre-employment physical and drug screen. Must be eligible to work in the United States, visa sponsorships are not available. Regular attendance required. About Us Perks of the Job   Medical, dental and vision insurance  Disability and life insurance  401(k) with matching contribution  Generous allotment of paid vacation and paid holidays  Competitive wages plus performance-based bonus opportunities  Employee Assistance Program (EAP)  Ongoing training and professional development  Ample opportunity for career growth and advancement  Daily pay available  Why Our People Love Working Here Purpose-driven, friendly, open, and respectful culture  Shared core values of safety, integrity, caring, and growth  Tuition reimbursement  Employee discount program with hundreds of partner brands  Wellness incentive program  Regular employee celebrations and events  Who We Are Founded nearly half a century ago, Pennex continues to see rapid growth as a leading provider of quality aluminum cast products and extrusions. With state-of-the-art technology and facilities across Ohio and Pennsylvania, we’re proud to offer the capabilities and expertise to cast billet, extrude custom shapes and fabricate finished components for customers across a range of markets - including automotive, transportation, building and construction, electrical and machinery, consumer durables and distribution. But it’s not just what we do that sets us apart, it’s how we do it. Safety. Inte