Quality Engineer - Drills

Komatsu is an indispensable partner to the construction, mining, forestry, forklift, and industrial machinery markets, maximizing value for customers through innovative solutions. With a diverse line of products supported by our advanced IoT technologies, regional distribution channels, and a global service network, we tap into the power of data and technology to enhance safety and productivity while optimizing performance. Komatsu supports a myriad of markets, including housing, infrastructure, water, pipeline, minerals, automobile, aerospace, electronics and medical, through its many brands and subsidiaries, including TimberPro, Joy, P&H, Montabert, Modular Mining Systems, Hensley Industries, NTC, and Gigaphoton.

Job Overview

The Quality Engineer for Mining Drills will play a crucial role in ensuring the reliability, performance, and safety of our drilling equipment. This role will work closely with cross-functional teams to implement quality control processes, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and uphold our commitment to delivering superior products to our customers.

Job Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain quality control systems to ensure that products and processes conform to Komatsu (KLTD) standards.
• Leverage the Advance Quality Planning Process (PFMEA & Control Plan) to provide feedback from other projects to develop countermeasures on current projects. Share best practices (lessons learned) within the NPI group.
• Promote and coordinate a smooth transition to Plant Quality from the Launch stage to SOP (Start of production). Work with the team to establish a robust quality plan for ongoing process control.
• Ensures root cause & corrective action investigations for all non-conformance issues determined in a timely manner.
• Collaborates with design and manufacturing teams to ensure product specifications and standards are met with highest quality.
• Conduct internal and external audits to ensure compliance with internal, ISO element and regulatory requirements.
• Develops and maintains documentation related to quality processes and procedures.
• Leads and supports continuous improvement initiatives to enhance product quality and manufacturing efficiency.
• Works closely with suppliers to ensure the quality of incoming materials and components.
• Provides technical expertise and support for quality-related matters to internal teams and external stakeholders.
• Ensure that the Komatsu (KLTD) Quality Management System is maintained and adhered to by providing guidance and support to cross-functional teams.
• Gather and analyze product data and use the data to lead improvement initiatives to reduce the potential for defects.
• Recommend and implement corrective and preventive actions.
• Develop and improve quality control processes and procedures in collaboration with cross-functional teams.
• Develop and maintain quality documentation and training programs, including standard operating procedures, work instructions, and quality manuals.
• Lead the Quality Risk Assessment for all Cost Excellence Projects (cost out projects).
• Develop inspection procedures and sampling plans for new production, continuous improvement of process controls, and improved workflow/worker satisfaction
• Deploy standard tools, methodologies, practices & processes.
• Promote a continuous improvement environment by providing leadership and direction for facility teams.

Qualifications/Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, or a related field
• Minimum 4 years of experience in a manufacturing environment utilizing APQP (Control Plan & PFMEA).
• Minimum 4 years of experience working in Quality Assurance in a plant or supplier quality role.
• Strong knowledge of quality control standards, techniques, and tools.
• Familiarity with ISO 9001 and other relevant quality management systems.
• ISO 9001 auditing experience.
• Working experience with SOLIDWORKS/SOLIDWORKS Inspection is a plus.
• Experience with Six Sigma or other quality improvement methodologies is a plus.
• Previous Manufacturing experience with fabrication, welding, heat treatment, machining and assembly is preferred.
• Ability to travel occasionally for supplier audits and other business needs.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to collaboratively work with teams to drive improvements.
• Ability to successfully manage shifting deadlines and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and SAP business systems.
• Knowledge of Lean principals & Continuous Improvement.