Quality Engineer

Fire-Dex is a family-owned, global manufacturer of head-to-toe personal protective equipment (PPE) for first responders and an Independent Service Provider (ISP) of PPE care and maintenance. Our mission is simple: to serve those who serve. We live by our values—Fun, Integrity, Respect, and Excellence (FIRE)—and take pride in being recognized as a multi award-winning organization, including Top Workplace by NorthCoast 99 and Weatherhead 100.Primary FunctionThe Quality Engineer is responsible for developing, implementing, and continually improving quality processes to ensure products, materials, and manufacturing processes meet defined requirements. This role establishes and maintains quality metrics, leads corrective actions and root cause analysis, supports internal and third-party audits, and partners with cross-functional teams to embed quality into new product introductions, process changes, and ongoing operations.Essential FunctionsDevelop and maintain metrics and measures related to Quality processes and Cost of QualityDevelop and maintain quality control plans, inspection criteria, and test protocolsLead root cause analysis and corrective actions (CAR) for nonconformances, audit findings, supplier issues, and RGA/customer complaintsSupport internal audits and third-party audits (e.g., ISO 9001, UL, SEI) and maintain audit readinessCollaborate with process owners through the CIP process to ensure quality is built into new product introductions and process changesMaintain and improve documentation systems and quality recordsTrain associates on Quality Assurance and Quality Control fundamentals and activitiesLead Verification & Validation activities for new products and product changes, including materials, options, garments, packaging, system solutions, and equipmentReconcile and document risk related to quality events and design activitiesUp to 20% travel to all sitesFacilitate Kaizen events to support continuous improvement initiatives and cross-functional problem-solving efforts to reduce waste, improve flow, or optimize manufacturing/quality processes. Perform other duties as assignedRequired Competencies (ISO 9001)Working knowledge of quality management systems and controlled documentation (e.g., ISO 9001)Ability to develop and track quality metrics, including Cost of QualityAbility to develop quality control plans, inspection criteria, and test/validation protocolsStrong problem-solving skills, including root cause analysis and corrective/preventive action methodsAbility to support and participate in internal and third-party audits; maintain audit readinessEffective written and verbal communication skills; ability to train others on QA/QC fundamentalsAbility to collaborate cross-functionally to embed quality into new product introductions and process changes (CIP mindset)Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver results in a fast-paced manufacturing environmentHigh attention to detail with strong documentation accuracy and recordkeeping integrityWorking knowledge of Lean or Six Sigma methodologies; Green Belt certification preferred.Competency Training AddendumRequired competencies for this role are obtained and maintained through structured onboarding, Quality Management System (QMS) training, applicable product/process training, and ongoing development aligned to Quality Engineering responsibilities. Competency verification and related records are maintained in accordance with established quality and documentation practices.Physical and Work Environment RequirementsCombination of office and manufacturing floor environment with regular presence in production areasAbility to move throughout facilities to observe processes, perform audits, and support investigationsVisual acuity sufficient to perform inspections, review documentation, and evaluate quality conditionsAbility to communicate effectively and perceive auditory cues in a manufacturing environmentUp to 20% travel to all sites; exposure to typical manufacturing noise and conditions when on the floorReasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.Total Rewards & BenefitsCompetitive salary Health, dental, and vision insurancePaid time off, including parental leave 401(k) with matching, life insurance, EAP for entire family, discount programs and other perksProfit sharing bonuses based upon company successFulfillment in a purposeful, impactful industry Who We AreOur mission is to serve those who serveOur values include fun, integrity, respect, and excellence — FIRE!Headquartered in Medina, OH (between Cleveland and Akron)39 years in business, family-owned and operatedMulti award-winning organization, including:Top Workplace by NorthCoast 99 (seven-time winner)Family Business Achievement AwardsCascade Business Growth AwardsWeatherhead 100Be part of making the highest quality personal protective equipment in the USA and keeping first responders safe! Learn more about our culture and team! Find purposeful work making firefighter PPE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EY6nF69ZXvcFind your work passion with the Fire-Dex family: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zh-cq2r1xyUHow It's Made: Turnout Gear: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KwgnI2OjBXkEqual Opportunity Employer (EOE) Fire- Dex is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age (40 and over), ancestry, color, disability (physical and mental, including HIV and AIDS), genetic information, gender identity and expression, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, race (includes traits historically associated with race, including, but not limited to, hair texture and protective hairstyles), religion (includes religious dress and grooming practices), sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, or any other basis protected by law. We are committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce and actively seek to ensure that our hiring and employment practices reflect this commitment. Interview Process & ConsentFire-Dex may use AI-assisted tools to record and transcribe interviews for evaluation purposes, with candidate notice and consent. These tools support, but do not replace, human decision-making. Interview data is handled in accordance with applicable privacy laws, including CCPA and GDPR.Please note: We are only considering direct applicants for this position. Third-party agencies will not be considered.