Production Quality Operator

Job Summary

• The Production Quality (PQ) Operator is responsible for performing quality inspections and verifications on automotive assembly parts during the manufacturing process. This role helps to ensure that production output meets internal and external quality standards through regular checks, defect identification, documentation, and communication with the production and quality team.  

Supervisory Responsibilities

• None.

Essential Functions

• Serve as the primary quality point of contact for production personnel on the shop floor.
• Provide guidance and support to production operators regarding quality standards, inspection procedures, and proper handling of parts.
• Respond promptly to quality-related inquiries and issues raised by production teams.
• Participate in and support production changeover activities, ensuring adherence to quality requirements and procedures.
• Verify the setup of equipment and tooling according to quality specifications prior to the start of production runs. Perform first-piece inspections and approvals after changeovers to ensure quality standards are met. 
• Perform in-process and final inspections on automotive assembly parts per control plans, work instructions and check sheets.
• Use measurement tools (e.g. calipers, micrometers, gauges) to verify part dimensions.
• Identify, document, and segregate non-conforming material.
• Complete and maintain accurate daily quality inspection records and logs.
• Communicate quality issues to line operators, team leaders, and quality engineers.
• Support containment and rework activities as needed. Perform rework or minor repairs on rejected parts according to established rework procedures and quality standards. 
• Assist in line audits, layered process audits (LPA), and error-proofing checks.
• Follow all safety, quality and housekeeping standards.
• Support continuous improvement and participate in root cause problem-solving issues.
• Escalate significant quality problems or trends that require further investigation or action.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and problem-solving activities as required.
• Perform other related duties as assigned. 

Required Skills/Abilities

• Basic understanding of quality inspection procedures.
• Ability to use hand measurement tools and visual inspection techniques.
• Comfortable reading and interpreting check sheets, work instructions or simple blueprints.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to spot defects.
• Ability to work independently, use good judgement and discretion.
• Good communication skills.
• Basic computer literacy for data entry and documentation.

Education and Experience Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous assembly, production, or quality experience preferred.
• Automotive industry experience a plus.

Physical requirements

• Must be able to stand for long periods, lift 35-50 pounds, and work in a fast-paced environment.

Additional Notes

PHA Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employee and wholeheartedly supports diversity in the workplace as a basic premise for business success. All employees of PHA Michigan are employed on an at-will basis.