Advance Quality Assurance Technical Specialist

SUMMARY

Focuses on maintaining and continuously improving vehicle quality performance across critical operational areas, including vehicle build quality, Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI), and accessory installation process as performed by the port processor. Serves as a technical subject matter expert (SME) specialist for reviewing, diagnosing, troubleshooting, and supporting resolution of minor vehicle quality concerns. Partners cross-functionally to identify root causes, implement countermeasures, and prevent recurrence. Effectively handles multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment while providing mid-range technical guidance and operational support to management to ensure vehicles meet Subaru of America (SOA) quality standards prior to retailer delivery.
 

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

• Maintains and applies advanced knowledge of vehicle specifications, features, functions, and model change history to accurately assess vehicle characteristics and quality concerns.

• Independently performs mid-level vehicle diagnostics and repairs using the Subaru Technical Information System (STIS) and diagnostic tools, including analysis and interpretation of Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and associated root causes.
• Facilitates correction of minor appearance-related exceptions to ensure that vehicles meet Subaru of America (SOA) Shipping Quality Standards.
• Reviews, validates, and properly categorizes identified quality exceptions, assigning responsibility and disposition decisions with a customer-focused approach in accordance with SOA Shipping Quality Standards.
• For those located at Subaru Yard Operations (SYO) facility, supports the Vehicle Quality Manager in processing and resolving quality review exceptions, including confirmation and release of vehicles repaired by Subaru of Indiana Automotive (SIA).
• Supports the battery charging and replacement program through accurate documentation, monitoring, and reporting.
• Assists in the preparation of Technical Reports (TRs) and quality documentation based on established reporting criteria.
• Performs independent teardown audits to validate complex or concealed installations, including critical wire harness routing and securement points.
• Conducts detailed vehicle inspections and generates deficiency reports. Evaluates on-site processor Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) and accessory installation activities for compliance with SOA and Subaru Corporation (SBR) standards, documenting and reporting findings.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Aids accessory discrepant parts process.

• Supports the training of SOA team and third-party processor staff on all facets of the PDI, accessory installation, and process audits as needed.
• For those located at Subaru Yard Operations (SYO) facility, processes daily and monthly reports as assigned or in absence of SYO Intern.
• Assists projects with Sales Operations and processor personnel.
• Participates in new-model-launch-related programs, including vehicle build audits, accessory installation instructions, PDI instructions, and the development of training videos. Using instructions developed by onsite Accessory Quality Manager and Vehicle Quality Manager, assists in the development of training videos that demonstrate beginning-to-end processes. Suggests improvements as needed for PDI process and accessory installation instruction improvements.

REQUIRED SKILLS & PERSONAL QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to train small groups in specific tasks.

• Ability to complete projects without supervision.

• Ability to proactively investigate vehicle quality problems.

• Mid-range mechanical ability for performing minor disassembly, part replacement, and repairs.

• Specific Subaru knowledge Preferred

• Ability to assess quality exceptions impartially and consistently.

• Skilled in verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills with ability to interact with personnel from a variety of groups, companies, and levels.

• Ability to attend off-site technical training classes.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (PowerPoint, Excel, Word, Access, Outlook) and digital photography/video and photo/video editing skills. Knowledge of Subaru of America (SOA) and specialty programs, including Subarunet, Oracle, SMART, Subaru Technical Information System (STIS), Web Technical Report (TR), and data collection software.

• Ability to work shift hours and limited overtime (to include weekends) as required.

• Completed Level 1 and Level 2 Subaru University (Subaru-U) technical training courses, required 

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: Associate's degree with 6-8 years o