Quality Engineer (Exterior Specialist)
About the Role
Kia Georgia is seeking a Quality Engineer (Exterior Specialist) to help improve vehicle quality and customer satisfaction by analyzing dealer claims, identifying root causes of exterior-related concerns, and implementing effective corrective actions. This role offers the opportunity to work cross-functionally with manufacturing, engineering, suppliers, and quality teams to drive continuous improvement across vehicle exterior systems.
What We’re Looking For
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related field.
- 2 to 5 years of engineering experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably automotive.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Experience with root cause analysis tools such as 5 Why, Fishbone, and other structured problem-solving methods.
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and technical reports.
- Experience analyzing warranty, dealer claim, customer feedback, or quality data is preferred.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate across multiple departments.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as needed.
Preferred Experience
Experience with one or more of the following:
- Automotive exterior systems and components
- Warranty and dealer claim analysis
- Supplier and manufacturing process investigations
- Plastic, sheet metal, glass, and headlamp systems
- Flush and gap measurements
- Body sealing, air leak, and water leak diagnosis
- Paint quality and color harmony evaluations
- KPI tracking, trend analysis, and quality reporting
What You’ll Do
- Analyze dealer claims, warranty data, and Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) information to identify quality trends and improvement opportunities.
- Investigate exterior component concerns and determine root causes through testing, analysis, and hands-on evaluations.
- Review returned parts and validate performance against engineering specifications and quality standards.
- Partner with manufacturing, supplier, and engineering teams to develop and implement corrective actions.
- Conduct process audits and support investigations related to vehicle exterior quality concerns.
- Monitor the effectiveness of quality improvements and report results using key performance indicators (KPIs).
- Create reports and presentations that highlight trends, risks, and opportunities for quality enhancement.
- Lead or support complex problem-solving activities related to production, customer concerns, and warranty issues.
Location: West Point, GA
Travel: Domestic and International Travel Required
Experience Level: Early Career to Mid-Level Engineer (2-5 Years Experience)