Project Engineer - Quality and Lean Manufacturing

The Project Engineer – Quality and Lean Manufacturing Focus is a key technical leader responsible for ensuring that Wag’n Tails delivers the highest quality mobile grooming and veterinary vehicles in the industry. This role owns the Quality Management System (QMS) and leads quality initiatives across engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain. The Project Engineer uses data analysis, structured problem-solving, lean manufacturing techniques and continuous improvement methods to reduce variation, eliminate defects, prevent recurrence, and improve customer satisfaction.As the quality champion, this individual will drive process improvements, lead corrective and preventive actions, enhance supplier performance, and reduce the Total Cost of Quality (TCQ) while directly supporting production and field issues.What You'll Do:Line Flow & Lean ManufacturingAnalyze and redesign production line flow to reduce WIP, travel distance, and cycle timeImplement and sustain 5S programs across all production areasDevelop and maintain standardized work documentation, visual aids, and process controlsLead time studies, value stream mapping, and line balancing effortsIdentify and eliminate bottlenecks, waste, and non-value-added activityQuality Management System (QMS)Build and maintain a scalable QMS that supports Wag'n Tails' growthOwn incoming material inspections, in-process audits, and final vehicle inspectionsDevelop inspection criteria, sampling plans, and testing protocolsMaintain nonconformance records, corrective actions (CAPA), and audit findingsSupport compliance with applicable standards (ISO 9001, RVIA, electrical codes)Defect Reduction & Root-Cause AnalysisLead structured root-cause investigations using 5 Why, Fishbone, DMAIC, and fault-tree analysisOwn containment activities on the production floor to prevent defect escapes to customersPartner with Customer Care to close the loop on field issues and drive corrective actionsBuild dashboards and metrics to track scrap, rework, and process capability trendsEngineering & Project SupportParticipate in new product development and engineering change reviews (ECNs/ECOs)Develop control plans, PFMEAs, and inspection standards for new or updated designsSupport prototype builds and production validation activitiesReview drawings, wiring diagrams, and specifications for manufacturability and inspection clarityEvaluate supplier capability for new components and support corrective action requests (SCARs)What We're Looking For:RequiredBachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Industrial, Mechanical, or Quality Engineering (or related field)3–7 years of experience in a manufacturing, upfitting, automotive, RV, or specialty vehicle environmentDemonstrated experience improving line flow, implementing lean practices, and building standard workHands-on experience with 5S, value stream mapping, and continuous improvement projectsWorking knowledge of quality tools: control plans, PFMEA, CAPA, SPC, and audit methodsAbility to read and interpret drawings, wiring diagrams, and technical specificationsStrong communication skills — you work across the floor, engineering, and leadership without frictionPreferredSix Sigma Green Belt or Black BeltCertified Quality Engineer or Certified Manufacturing EngineerExperience with specialty vehicle, mobile unit, or low-volume / high-mix production environmentsFamiliarity with ISO 9001.Experience with supplier quality management and external auditsPerks and Benefits:Comprehensive benefits package including FREE medical coverage for employee (employee paid family plans also available), 401(k) with a company match, and generous PTOEmployee perks and discounts through provider programsHands-on training from industry experts with backgrounds in automotive, RV, and consumer productsJoin a company with 30+ years of leadership in mobile pet service conversionsWhy Wag’n Tails?We’re not just a vehicle manufacturer—we help people launch their dreams. From pet groomers to veterinarians, our clients rely on us to build mobile units that power their businesses and expand their impact.At Wag’n Tails, you’ll be part of a passionate, tight-knit team that values innovation, personal attention, and doing things the right way. If you’re ready to grow your career while supporting a mission that truly makes a difference in people’s lives, we’d love to hear from you.