Quality Engineer III
Tucson, AZ - USA
Job Summary
Job Purpose:
Serve as a senior-level Quality Engineer with leadership responsibilities in medical device QMS compliance strategic quality initiatives and cross-functional project execution. Drive continuous improvement in product quality regulatory compliance and risk management across the product lifecycle. Act as a subject matter expert (SME) in core QMS elements and global regulatory standards.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
- Lead large-scale or cross-functional quality projects involving product lifecycle management validation CAPA audit readiness risk management or supplier quality improvement.
- Act as a quality lead on new product development or design transfer projects ensuring compliance with design control and risk management requirements.
- Develop and implement risk management strategies in accordance with ISO 14971 and maintain risk files throughout product lifecycle.
- Provide expert-level input on process validation and sterilization validation strategies including complex or novel technologies.
- Lead internal and supplier audits and actively support external audits (FDA ISO MDSAP) as quality system SME.
- Drive standardization and continuous improvement in QMS elements such as CAPA complaint handling supplier management and document control.
- Serve as a mentor and technical resource for junior engineers and cross-functional stakeholders.
- Use statistical tools (e.g. SPC DOE MSA) and Lean Six Sigma methodologies to identify trends reduce defects and improve product quality and process stability.
- Develop and present quality performance reports to leadership; make data-driven recommendations for improvement.
- Review and approve technical documentation including engineering change orders validation protocols inspection plans and risk assessments.
- Actively participate in Value Stream Teams as a functional member engaged in improving first pass yield scrap reduction process improvements.
- Stay abreast of changes in regulatory requirements and lead implementation of necessary updates to the QMS.
- Performs all other duties as assigned
- Uphold SPG and Dupont vision and core values
Competencies:
- Regulatory & Industry Leadership Expert knowledge of FDA ISO EU MDR and MDSAP requirements. Acts as an internal authority and resource.
- Strategic Problem Solving Leads complex problem-solving initiatives using advanced tools (8D DMAIC FMEA DOE).
- Systems Thinking Understands how individual QMS elements connect; capable of driving systemic improvements across the organization.
- Cross-functional Influence Demonstrated ability to influence without authority and lead diverse teams toward quality goals.
- Mentorship & Coaching Provides technical and professional development to less experienced engineers and team members.
- Audit Readiness & Response Leads internal audits and prepares organization for external audits (e.g. FDA Notified Body customers).
- Innovation & Continuous Improvement Drives proactive improvements to products processes and systems using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
- Risk-based Decision Making Makes quality decisions by weighing compliance business impact and patient safety.
Qualifications
QUALIFICATIONS Education Experience Knowledge Skills and Abilities
Required:
- Bachelors Degree in Engineering (Biomedical Mechanical Industrial or related field); Masters preferred.
- 58 years of experience in the medical device industry with increasing responsibility.
- Expert knowledge of FDA QSR ISO 13485:2016 ISO 14971 and global regulatory expectations.
- Demonstrated experience leading audits validation activities and cross-functional quality initiatives.
- Strong understanding of design controls DHF/DMR/Tech Files and quality planning for new product development.
- Proficient in statistical analysis RCA and corrective actions using problem solving (e.g. 8D 5W) and other quality engineering tools.
- Ability to communicate and influence across multiple levels of the organization.
- Skilled in managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced regulated environment.
- Responsible for understanding and complying with all SPG and Dupont safety policies and procedures
Preferred:
- Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification.
- ISO 13485 Lead Auditor certified
- Regulatory compliance experience with FDA EU MDR and MDSAP.
- Experience implementing or optimizing eQMS platforms.
- Experience in team leadership mentoring or informal management roles.
Working Conditions:
Combination of office cleanroom and manufacturing environments. Occasional travel (up to 10%) for audits supplier visits or professional development.
Required Experience:
IC
About Company
We are leaders in medical plastics design, development & manufacture, with over 2,000 employees, and 20 manufacturing locations worldwide.