Quality Engineer in Elkhorn, Wisconsin at READER PRECISION SOLUTIONS

The Quality Engineer is a hands-on technical role at Reader Precision Solutions, bringing expertise in metrology, gage management, and CMM/Keyence/Oasis programming to support the manufacturing and quality teams. By resolving urgent quality and production issues, maintaining calibration integrity, driving inspection process improvements, and supporting APQP, PPAP, and FAI requirements, this role is integral to ensuring products consistently meet client expectations, regulatory standards, and the company's continuous improvement goals.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Metrology, Gage & Equipment Expertise:

• Serve as the primary technical resource for metrology and gage use, including calibration management and training operators on proper inspection techniques. Works closely with the Metrology Technicians - Calibration and Programmer.
• Design, modify, and troubleshoot CMM, Keyence, and Oasis programs, diagnosing and resolving complex problems with inspection equipment and gage performance.
• Support operators and inspectors with interpretation of technical drawings and inspection requirements.
• Conduct print review of customer prints and engineering drawings, identifying quality requirements, tolerances, and GD&T callouts to support inspection planning and manufacturability.

APQP, PPAP & FAI Support:

• Support APQP submission preparation and documentation, coordinating with the Quality Manager on client requirements and technical content.
• Support the creation and review of Process Failure Mode and Effects Analyses (PFMEA), working alongside the engineering team.
• Support the Quality Supervisor with technical validation and documentation for PPAP and First Article Inspection (FAI) submissions.
• Help aid with creating and maintain Quality Standards & Defect Guides for jobs.

Technical Troubleshooting & Continuous Improvement:

• Troubleshoot daily quality and production issues, providing immediate containment, technical root cause analysis (5 Whys, Fishbone), and corrective action guidance (CAPA).
• Review and improve inspection plans for gaging and metrology processes to increase efficiency, reduce bottlenecks, and ensure smooth throughput in production quality checks.
• Provide technical evaluation of nonconforming material to support the Material Review Board (MRB).

Data Analysis & Quality Documentation:

• Manage and analyze data using High QA software to support quality decision-making, partnering with the Quality Supervisor to identify opportunities for process improvement.
• Support quality documentation efforts within the quality workbook containing, Gage List, Setup Inspection, Inspection Instructions, Work Instructions, Quality Alerts, etc.

Client, Supplier & Compliance Support:

• Provide technical investigation and root cause support for client returns (RMA) and supplier corrective actions (CARs), partnering with the Quality Manager on resolution and systemic improvements.
• Support internal audits as a subject matter expert on metrology, gaging, and calibration, in alignment with AS9100 requirements.

Other Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to establish inspection plans and control methods.
• Assist the Quality Supervisor or Quality Manager with additional quality tasks as needed.

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field preferred; Associate degree with significant experience will be considered.
• 3-5 years of experience in a quality or metrology engineering role within a manufacturing environment.
• Expert-level knowledge of micrometers, calipers, optical comparators, CMMs, Oasis, Keyence, and other inspection equipment, including hands-on programming experience.
• Strong background in CMM, Keyence, and Oasis programming and CAD integration.
• In-depth knowledge of APQP, PPAP, FAI, and calibration management processes.
• Sound understanding of AS9100 and ISO 9001 standards.
• Experience with quality tracking software and statistical tools, preferably High QA.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving ability under tight timelines.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and quick adaptability to new software.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings and apply mathematical formulas.
• A collaborative, detail-oriented, and results-driven mindset with a passion for manufacturing excellence.
• Self-motivated and able to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team.

Core Competencies – Reader Precision Solutions Four Pillars: Innovation, Empowerment, Integrity & Respect

• Respect for the Individual & Ideas – Appreciation for all employees & clients, as well as their ideas & concepts.
• Ethical & Honest Behavior – Act honestly in the best interest of the Company & its clients; display integrity in all dealings with coworkers & clients.
• Client Focus – Quality & excellent client service is everyone’s responsibility.
• Professionalism & Teamwork – Establish positive, professional & collaborative relationships.
• Prompt Responses – Communicate effectively within the organization & with clients to foster a results-oriented culture.
• Safety & Quality – Apply best practices in safety & production to cultivate a safe work environment that produces the highest quality product.

Physical/Environmental Demands:

The incumbent typically works in an office environment or out on the manufacturing floor. In the office, the incumbent will utilize a computer, telephone, and other office equipment as needed to perform assigned duties. On the manufacturing floor, the incumbent may need to gather information, troubleshoot manufacturing components, or prove out projects. The noise level in the office is typical of an office and the noise level on the manufacturing floor does not require hearing protection although it is provided. This role may encounter frequent interruptions throughout the workday. This role may regularly require the incumbent to sit, talk, or listen; frequently required to use repetitive hand motion, fine motor skills, and stand, walk, reach, and/or bend. May occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.

Benefits & perks of joining the Reader Precision Solutions team include:

RPS team members enjoy a challenging and fast-paced work environment in a high-tech manufacturing facility named the 35th and 37th Annual Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year. Our work environment is extremely clean, well lit, organized (5S), and climate-controlled. In addition, our team thrives in a supportive culture that provides engaged leadership, ongoing recognition for performance results, and a great benefits package.

• Climate Controlled Facility
• Competitive wages (paid weekly on Thursday's)
• 8% of base pay shift differential (2nd and 3rd shift)
• Benefits begin the month following 30 days of employment: health insurance with points based, holistic wellness program, dental, life, & disability insurance
• Partnership with a near site local clinic for FREE health services including primary & preventative care, walk in visits, labs, prescriptions, etc.
• FREE vision insurance!
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with up to 4.5% company match (immediately vested!)
• Vacation accrual starts upon hire - accrue up to 2.5 weeks in first year!
• 9 paid holidays with up to two discretionary holidays
• Education assistance up to $5,250 annually (after 12 months of service)
• Professional development opportunities – internal and external (cross-departmental training, PMPA conferences, IMTS-Chicago, local technical colleges/universities, and more…)
• Career advancement – ongoing training and mentoring with opportunity to grow your skills
• Performance bonus – potential to receive a discretionary year-end bonus based on individual and group performance
• Company paid Short-Term Disability policy
• Company events – team lunches, summer picnic event, holiday party
• Company zoo pass to Milwaukee County Zoo
• Voluntary pet insurance
• Holistic wellness program – earn up to $700 in incentives through points accumulation for accomplishing a variety of wellness activities. Also offered by the Company are employer paid onsite flu shots, biometric screenings, free health coaching and MUCH more!
• Employer paid life insurance – $50,000 policy with options for voluntary life up to $400,000 benefit maximum
• Financial planning resources and onsite financial wellness workshops
• Employer subsidized work shoes & safety glasses program
• Reader Precision Solutions branded attire – $100 annual allowance
• Employee Referral bonus – $1,000
• Satisfying work…leaving work at the end of the day knowing that the GREAT work you do is meaningful and appreciated by the Company, our clients, and end users who benefit from the high-quality components we manufacture for them!

Core Competencies – Reader Precision Solutions Four Pillars: Innovation, Empowerment, Integrity & Respect

• Innovation – we apply creative solutions to exceed expectations internally and externally. We deliver creative solutions by pursuing continuous improvement, challenging the limits of conventional thinking to drive positive change, and engaging our clients to achieve synergy.
• Empowerment – we equip our employees to succeed. We nurture success by setting realistic goals and standards; with accountability and regular performance feedback, providing training opportunities for growth and learning and offering employees a safe and modern work environment.
• Integrity – our reputation is everything. We preserve and enhance our reputation by operating with the highest ethical standards, focusing on client needs, and contributing positively to our community and environment.
• Respect – we act with honor in all our interactions. In our interactions, we accept and value individual differences, work together with a positive attitude and promote open and honest communication in a team-based environment.