Lead Quality Engineer - Industrial Manufacturing

The Impact You'll Make

Lead Quality Engineer plays a critical role in driving plant operational and customer quality goals while reporting directly to the Quality Manager. This position focuses on advancing continuous improvement initiatives, strengthening data‑driven quality performance, and preventing the recurrence of nonconforming products or materials. Success in the role is defined by the ability to achieve key quality KPIs through effective analytics, strong leadership, and collaboration across cross‑functional teams to support a culture of excellence in quality.

Sponsorship is NOT available for this role.

This is a full‑time onsite position based in Van Wert, OH.

• Drive and support continuous improvement projects impacting key quality metrics (e.g., Customer DPPM, Product Audits) through data analytics aligned with Danfoss Quality System policies.
• Lead efforts to reduce Cost of Poor Quality (Scrap, Rework, Repair, Warranty) while ensuring prevention and recurrence control of suspect or nonconforming material or product.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering and Production Operations to develop Process FMEAs, Control Plans, Measurement System Analyses, and Process Capability methods.
• Lead structured team problem‑solving efforts such as Six Sigma, 8D, and Corrective/Preventive Actions to resolve issues and achieve quality KPI targets.
• Support risk mitigation activities across the value stream to proactively address potential quality issues.
• Strengthen supplier and customer relationships through effective communication and partnership.
• Provide leadership and direction for Quality Department personnel.
• Lead monthly quality performance reviews and provide detailed project status updates.

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of five years of experience in a quality role within operations.
• Knowledge and experience with inspection and testing equipment.
• Ability to read engineering drawings, GD&T, process control plans, PFMEA, routers, job instructions, standardized work, and statistical methods.
• Proficiency with AIAG Core Tools: PPAP, APQP, MSA, SPC, and FMEA.

• ASQ certification (CQE, CMQ/OE).
• Six Sigma Green Belt certification.
• Certified internal auditor (IATF 16949 preferred).
• Experience with 8D problem‑solving methods.
• Demonstrated continuous improvement experience within an ISO‑certified Quality Management System.
• Knowledge of fabrication, machining, and assembly processes.
• Experience with SAP (ERP system).

• Effective team leadership with strong communication and presentation skills.
• Strong analytical thinking, problem‑solving skills, sense of urgency, and managerial courage.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Proficiency with computers and MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint); experience with SharePoint, Power BI, and Minitab is a plus.
• Solid understanding of ISO/IATF 16949, AIAG PPAP, APQP, MSA, SPC, and FMEA standards and tools.

• Bonus system
• Paid vacation
• Retirement plan
• Flexible working hours
• Personal insurance
• Opportunity to join Employee Resource Groups
• State of the art virtual work environment
• Employee Referral Program

At Danfoss, we believe that a diverse and inclusive workplace fosters creativity, innovation, and a broader perspective in decision‑making. When you consider this job posting, do you feel like your profile is not a perfect match? Numerous studies have found that women and people of color are more likely to apply only when they meet all requirements listed in the job posting.

Even if you do not check all the boxes, we encourage you to apply anyway. We are curious to find out how you can bring new insights to the role or to Danfoss as an organization.

If this role excites you, we’d love to hear from you! Apply now to start the conversation and learn more about where your career can go with us.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected category.

Danfoss engineers solutions that increase machine productivity, reduce emissions, lower energy consumption, and enable electrification.

Our solutions are used in such areas as refrigeration, air conditioning, heating, power conversion, motor control, industrial machinery, automotive, marine, and off- and on-highway equipment. We also provide solutions for renewable energy, such as solar and wind power, as well as district-energy infrastructure for cities.

Our innovative engineering dates back to 1933. Danfoss is family‑owned, employing more than 39.360 people, serving customers in more than 100 countries through a global footprint of 95 factories.