Quality Engineer at PORTOBELLO AMERICA INC – Baxter, Tennessee

Portobello Job Description 2026

Job Title: Quality Engineer
Department: Quality
Reports To: Quality Manager
Location: Baxter, TN

Job Summary:

The Quality Engineer is responsible for ensuring that all tiles produced meet industry standards, meet customer expectations, and company quality objectives. This role involves developing and implementing quality control processes, troubleshooting production issues, conducting inspections, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. The Quality Engineer works closely with production, R&D, and supply chain teams to enhance product quality and manufacturing efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Quality Control & Assurance

• Develop, implement, and maintain quality control processes for tile manufacturing.
• Conduct inspections, tests, and audits to ensure product consistency and compliance with company and industry standards.
• Analyze defects and implement corrective actions to reduce non-conforming products.
• Ensure compliance with ISO, ANSI, ASTM, and other relevant quality standards.

2. Process Improvement & Problem-Solving

• Identify process inefficiencies and lead initiatives to enhance product quality and production efficiency.
• Collaborate with the production team to implement process control measures and reduce variability in manufacturing.
• Use root cause analysis tools (such as 5-Why, Fishbone Diagram, or FMEA) to address quality issues.

3. Product Testing & Validation

• Conduct raw material and finished product testing, including strength, water absorption, glaze adhesion, and durability tests.
• Maintain and calibrate laboratory testing equipment for accurate results.
• Ensure proper documentation of testing procedures and results.

4. Supplier & Material Quality Management

• Work with suppliers to ensure raw materials meet the required specifications.
• Evaluate and approve incoming raw materials through quality checks and performance testing.
• Address supplier quality issues and implement corrective actions when necessary.

5. Customer Complaint Investigation & Resolution

• Analyze customer feedback and complaints related to product quality.
• Work with cross-functional teams to identify root causes and implement corrective and preventive actions.
• Develop reports on quality trends and recommend improvements to reduce defects.

6. Compliance & Documentation

• Ensure all quality control documentation, procedures, and records are maintained and up to date.
• Assist in internal and external audits to ensure regulatory and customer compliance.
• Develop and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and quality guidelines.

7. Training & Team Collaboration

• Train production and quality teams on best practices, quality standards, and inspection techniques.
• Collaborate with R&D to support new product development and process validation.
• Work with maintenance teams to improve equipment calibration and ensure process stability.

Skills & Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, Materials Science, or a related field).
• 3+ years of experience in quality engineering, preferably in tile manufacturing or a related industry.
• Knowledge of ceramic tile manufacturing processes, materials, and quality standards.
• Experience with quality management systems (ISO 9001, Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing).
• Proficiency in statistical analysis and problem-solving tools.
• Strong communication, documentation, and leadership skills.
• Hands-on experience with laboratory testing equipment and software.

Growth Opportunities:

A Quality Engineer can advance to:

• Senior Quality Engineer: Taking on more complex projects and leadership responsibilities.
• Quality Manager: Overseeing the entire quality department and developing long-term quality strategies.
• Process Engineer or Production Manager: Expanding into operations and continuous improvement roles.

Work Environment:

• Industrial manufacturing environment with exposure to heat, dust, and noise.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting throughout the shift.
• PPE required, including safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection.

Portobello America is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to promoting equal employment opportunity for applicants, without regard to their race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, including, but not limited to, lactation), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, and any other category protected by federal, state, or local law

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or physical requirements. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT (Optional)

I have read the foregoing job description and understand the responsibilities of the job. I agree that I am able to perform the essential duties of this position.

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