Quality Process Engineer
Baker Engineering, LLC’s (Baker) core business centers around the design and development of high-tech, high-performance technologies for a variety of applications, from custom military and commercial engines, to engine components, to the production of parts and mechanical assemblies for other industries. Baker is a division of Waséyabek Development Company, LLC that is wholly owned by the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi, a Federally recognized Indian Tribe.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Quality Process Engineer develops, implements, and maintains manufacturing and quality processes that ensure the consistent production of precision CNC-machined components. This role combines quality engineering and manufacturing engineering responsibilities to improve product conformance, process capability, efficiency, and throughput. The position works cross-functionally with engineering, production, quality, supply chain, customers, and suppliers to meet company, customer, and industry requirements.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Develop and maintain quality inspection plans for CNC-machined parts, including gauges and measurement systems
- Perform and document First Article Inspections (FAIs), Production Part Approval Processes (PPAPs), and control plans to meet customer and industry requirements
- Lead root cause analysis and implement corrective and preventive actions for nonconformances
- Monitor and improve process capability using Cp, Cpk, statistical process control (SPC), and other appropriate methods
- Ensure compliance with ISO 9001 and AS9100 requirements and support internal, customer, and third-party audits
- Train operators and technicians on quality requirements, inspection techniques, process controls, and defect prevention
- Work with the continuous improvement team to develop and optimize CNC machining processes, including tooling, workholding, and setups
- Create and maintain work instructions, setup sheets, inspection instructions, and process documentation
- Support New Product Introduction (NPI) by validating machining processes and reviewing customer designs for manufacturability
- Collaborate with programming, engineering, operations, and quality teams to reduce cycle time, scrap, and rework while improving throughput
- Recommend and support process automation and continuous improvement projects
- Partner with supply chain and suppliers to resolve supplier quality and manufacturability issues
- Document work as required by company, customer, ISO 9001, and AS9100 standards
- Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor or upper management
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering, or a related field; equivalent technical education and experience will be considered
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in a CNC machining or precision manufacturing environment
- Strong knowledge of CNC machining processes, including milling, turning, and preferably multi-axis machining
- Strong working knowledge of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) and blueprint interpretation
- Hands-on experience with precision metrology tools, gauges, and measurement systems
- Proficiency in root cause analysis, SPC, process capability studies, and corrective action methods
- Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and controlled manufacturing documentation
- Strong problem-solving, analytical, organizational, and communication skills
- Ability to work collaboratively across departments and lead process improvements
- Ability to work onsite in Muskegon, MI
- Ability to pass a background investigation
- United States citizenship required by contract
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification or higher
- Experience with aerospace, defense, or automotive machining standards
- Experience with CAM software such as Mastercam, NX, Fusion 360, or equivalent
- Background in automation, robotics, or advanced machining technologies
COMMUNICATION
Must be able to communicate effectively with operations, engineering, quality, supply chain, suppliers, customers, and company leadership.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Regularly required to sit, stand, walk, and move throughout the production floor
- Frequent use of hands and arms to handle, feel, and reach with precision tools, gauges, and measuring equipment
- Ability to lift and carry up to 25 lb occasionally
- Visual acuity required to read blueprints and technical documents and perform precision inspections
- Occasional bending, stooping, or climbing when working around machinery or accessing workholding setups
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Work is performed in office and climate-controlled CNC machining shop environments. The position may be exposed to moderate noise, coolant, lubricants, and airborne particles typical of machining operations. Appropriate personal protective equipment is required on the shop floor.
TRAVEL
This position may require travel up to 5% of the time.
POSITION TYPE
This is a full-time salaried, exempt position.
RELOCATION
Relocation expenses are not provided.
DISCLAIMER
This job description indicates in general the nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills, abilities and other essential functions (as covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act) expected of an incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of an incumbent. An incumbent may be asked to perform other duties as required.
Native American & Veteran Hiring Preferences will be applied in accordance with Waséyabek Development Company policy. We are committed to making merit-based hiring decisions. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, citizenship, marital status, height or weight, veteran status, or any other legally protected category.
Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.
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