A quality process engineer is in charge of assessing and improving the systems that are used to develop and test new chemicals or consumer products. To ensure efficiency, safety, and quality in production, professionals in the field concentrate on both industrial engineering principles and the use of human labor. A quality process engineer, for example, studies current production and quality control measures, develops ways to improve them, and trains employees on new policies, among other things.
If a company wants to be successful, it needs to have strict quality control measures in place. A quality process engineer assists a business owner in meeting production targets, producing reliable products, and making a profit. He or she works on the factory floor as well as at a computer, analyzing quality. An engineer visits a facility on a regular basis to inspect the equipment and ask employees if they have any concerns or suggestions. Facts and figures about production, testing, and sales are examined and compared to previous year’s statistics as well as competitor data.
When an engineer sees an area that can be improved, he or she talks to his or her bosses about options and starts planning a new project. In some projects, new training protocols for production workers and quality control technicians are being developed. Others are more concerned with purchasing and installing new equipment that will improve worker efficiency and safety.
Lead quality process engineers keep a close eye on new projects. They ensure that equipment is properly set up and that workers understand how to use it. An engineer might recommend bringing in extra help or specialized workers to run new machinery or conduct various types of quality control tests. Engineers review performance after new systems are installed on a regular basis and suggest adjustments if necessary.
A bachelor’s degree is usually the bare minimum for working as a quality process engineer. Although a degree in business management or a physical science may be sufficient, most future professionals choose to pursue degrees in industrial or mechanical engineering. Many workers start out as assistants or engineering technicians, where they are primarily responsible for assembling official documents and assisting experienced engineers with their daily tasks. Success and continued experience can lead to promotions and the ability to design and supervise projects. Before starting work independently, a new quality process engineer may be required to pass a regional or national exam.