Automotive Quality Control Job Description

Automotive quality control (QC) professionals ensure that vehicles and components meet safety, regulatory, and customer requirements by inspecting materials, monitoring production, measuring conformance, documenting results, and driving corrective actions. In practice, they conduct incoming, in‑process, and final inspections; use statistical process control (SPC) and metrology tools; manage nonconformances; support audits and PPAP; and collaborate with engineering, production, and suppliers to prevent defects and reduce scrap.

Purpose of the Role and Scope

QC in the automotive sector focuses on detecting and preventing defects in parts and assemblies—at suppliers, on production lines, and before shipment. It spans mechanical, electrical/electronic, interior, body, chassis, powertrain, and increasingly software-enabled features in EVs and connected vehicles. QC roles exist at OEMs and Tier 1/2 suppliers and interface closely with quality assurance (QA), manufacturing, product engineering, and supplier quality.

Key Responsibilities

QC roles center on measurable conformance, robust documentation, and timely escalation. Below are common responsibilities found in automotive QC positions.

• Perform incoming, in‑process, and final inspections using calibrated gauges and CMMs against drawings, control plans, and specifications (including GD&T).
• Execute and maintain SPC charts; calculate Cp/Cpk and Ppk; react to trends and out‑of‑control conditions.
• Implement and update control plans, inspection instructions, sampling plans (e.g., ANSI/ASQ Z1.4/AQL), and check sheets.
• Conduct Measurement System Analysis (MSA) including Gage R&R; manage gauge calibration and traceability.
• Identify, segregate, and document nonconforming material; issue NCRs; lead MRB reviews; initiate corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
• Support root‑cause investigations using 5‑Why, Ishikawa, 8D, and A3; verify effectiveness of corrective actions.
• Participate in APQP and PPAP (Levels 1–5): inspection of sample parts, capability studies, dimensional reports, and submission packages.
• Perform layered process audits, product audits, and (where applicable) VDA 6.3‑based process checks.
• Collect, analyze, and report quality metrics (PPM, FPY, scrap, rework, warranty returns) to drive continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with IATF 16949 and customer-specific requirements; maintain records for traceability and recalls.
• Collaborate with supplier quality to resolve supplier issues; contain defects; validate sorts and rework.
• Support safety, EHS, and regulatory conformance (e.g., labeling, ESD controls for electronics, battery handling procedures).

Together, these responsibilities ensure defects are detected early, processes stay in control, and quality issues are contained, corrected, and prevented from recurring.

Day-to-Day Tasks and Workflow

A typical shift balances line presence with data analysis and documentation to ensure immediate response and long‑term stability.

1. Review shift handover, open NCRs/CARs, recent SPC signals, and priority parts.
2. Conduct line walks and audits; verify setup, first‑piece approval, torque and vision systems, and poke‑yoke functionality.
3. Sample parts per control plan; perform dimensional, visual, and functional checks (including cosmetic standards and torque validation).
4. Update SPC; investigate trends; alert production and stop the line when critical characteristics are at risk.
5. Quarantine suspect material; lead MRB decisions and coordinate rework or scrap disposition.
6. Document findings in eQMS/MES; issue 8D actions as needed and follow up on due dates.
7. Calibrate or verify gauges; execute MSA studies; update gage R&R and calibration records.
8. Attend tier meetings; present KPIs; align on containment and long‑term corrective actions.
9. Train operators on defect recognition, handling precautions, and changes to inspection criteria.

This cadence keeps production flowing while safeguarding customer requirements and building a traceable record of quality performance.

Required Qualifications and Skills

Employers look for a blend of technical measurement expertise, process discipline, and cross‑functional communication.

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required; associate’s in manufacturing/engineering tech preferred; bachelor’s for engineer‑level roles.
• Experience: 1–3 years for technicians/inspectors; 3–5+ for quality engineers, ideally in automotive or high‑volume manufacturing.
• Technical skills: GD&T interpretation; SPC; MSA/Gage R&R; blueprint reading; PPAP/APQP; FMEA familiarity; torque/fastening; visual standards.
• Software: QMS/MES systems, Minitab or equivalent, Excel; CMM programs (PC-DMIS/Calypso) for metrology roles.
• Standards literacy: IATF 16949, ISO 9001, AIAG Core Tools (APQP, PPAP, FMEA, MSA, SPC), VDA methodologies.
• Certifications (nice to have): ASQ CQT or CQI, CSSGB; IATF Core Tools training; IPC‑A‑610 for electronics; AIAG CQI special processes (e.g., CQI‑9 heat treat, CQI‑11 plating).
• Soft skills: Attention to detail, problem solving, data literacy, communication, conflict resolution, and the courage to stop production when necessary.

These capabilities enable QC professionals to detect issues accurately, act decisively, and communicate clearly in fast‑paced environments.

Tools, Methods, and Standards Used

Automotive QC relies on robust metrology, proven statistical methods, and industry standards to ensure repeatable quality.

• Measurement tools: Calipers, micrometers, height gauges, pin gauges, surface finish testers, CMM, vision systems, torque analyzers, leak testers, hardness testers.
• Analytical methods: SPC (X‑bar/R, X‑mR, p/np/c/u), capability indices (Cp/Cpk, Pp/Ppk), MSA (bias, linearity, stability, R&R), DOE support as needed.
• Documents and controls: Drawings with GD&T, control plans, PFMEA linkages, work instructions, check sheets, deviation/waiver forms.
• Standards and compliance: IATF 16949:2016 (with current Sanctioned Interpretations), ISO 9001, AIAG Core Tools, VDA 6.3 audits; ISO/IEC 17025 for external labs; ISO 10012 for measurement processes.
• Special considerations: AIAG CQI special process assessments (e.g., CQI‑9/11/12/14/15/17); ESD control per ANSI/ESD S20.20 for electronics; UN 38.3 and safe handling for EV batteries; RoHS/REACH material compliance; customer‑specific requirements (CSR).

Applying these tools and standards builds confidence that measurements are valid, processes are capable, and compliance obligations are met.

Performance Metrics (KPIs)

Well-defined KPIs help QC teams prioritize and demonstrate impact on quality and cost.

• PPM (defective parts per million) internal and external.
• First Pass Yield (FPY) and rolled throughput yield.
• Scrap and rework rates/costs; Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ).
• Process capability (Cp/Cpk, Pp/Ppk) on critical characteristics.
• Audit results (layered audits, VDA 6.3), control plan adherence.
• On‑time PPAP submissions and customer approvals.
• Warranty claims, field failures, and recall escape rate.
• Containment lead time and corrective action effectiveness.

Tracking these metrics enables early detection of drift, quantifies improvements, and aligns teams on priorities.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

QC roles are predominantly shop‑floor based and require adherence to safety protocols and consistent hands‑on activity.

• Shifts: Day, night, or rotating schedules to support 24/7 operations.
• Physical: Standing/walking for long periods; lifting up to 25–50 lbs (11–23 kg) depending on role; fine motor skills for inspection.
• Environment: Noise, moving equipment, temperature variations; PPE use (safety shoes, glasses, gloves, hearing protection).
• Travel: Occasional visits to suppliers or external labs; driver’s license may be required.
• Special areas: Cleanrooms or ESD‑protected zones for electronics; controlled areas for battery packs and hazardous materials.

These conditions emphasize safety, situational awareness, and consistent application of procedures in production settings.

Career Path and Typical Titles

Automotive QC offers progression from hands‑on inspection to engineering and leadership tracks.

• Entry and mid-level: Quality Inspector, Quality Technician, Metrology Technician.
• Engineer-level: Quality Engineer, Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE), Manufacturing/Process Quality Engineer.
• Leadership: Quality Supervisor, Quality Manager, Plant Quality Leader, Director of Quality.
• Specializations: Dimensional/Metrology Engineer, Reliability/Validation, Battery Quality, Electronics/PCBA Quality, Software/OTA release quality coordination.

With added certifications and cross‑functional experience, QC professionals can advance into broader quality management or specialized technical roles.

Example Job Posting Summary

The following summarizes a typical QC position as it might appear in a job ad.

• Responsibilities: Perform incoming/in‑process/final inspections; maintain SPC and capability metrics; execute MSA and manage gauge calibration; issue NCRs and lead MRB; support 8D root‑cause and corrective actions; assist with APQP/PPAP; conduct layered audits; ensure IATF and CSR compliance; report KPIs; train operators on defect recognition.
• Qualifications: Diploma or associate’s in technical field (bachelor’s preferred for engineers); 2+ years in automotive or high‑volume manufacturing; proficiency in GD&T, SPC, MSA; experience with CMM and basic metrology; familiarity with AIAG Core Tools; strong communication; ASQ CQT/CQI or Six Sigma Green Belt preferred.
• Work conditions: Shift work on the shop floor; PPE required; occasional supplier travel.

This profile can be scaled for inspector, technician, or engineer roles depending on depth of analysis and project ownership expected.

Compensation (Indicative)

Pay varies by region, company size, and role complexity. In the United States, QC/inspection technicians commonly earn hourly rates around $22–$35, and quality engineers often range from approximately $70,000–$100,000 annually, with higher levels in EV, electronics, or high‑cost markets. Overtime, shift premiums, and bonuses tied to KPIs are common.

Summary

Automotive quality control professionals protect customers and brands by verifying conformance, stabilizing processes, and driving corrective actions. Their job blends hands‑on inspection, statistical analysis, disciplined documentation, and cross‑functional teamwork, anchored in IATF 16949, AIAG/VDA methods, and robust metrology. Effective QC reduces defects and costs, improves yield and capability, and enables reliable launches and sustained product quality across the supply chain.

What is quality control in automotive?

Quality control analyzes and manages quality in the process of developing and producing automobiles from various angles. Quality control is mainly divided into quality control of the production process and quality control of the product itself.

What is the job description of a quality control automotive?

Professionals in this role identify defects, implement corrective actions, and collaborate with production teams to improve manufacturing processes. They use various testing methods, such as visual inspections, measurements, and performance evaluations, to maintain quality consistency.

What are the five responsibilities of quality control?

The five key responsibilities of quality control (QC) are: testing and inspecting products/materials, monitoring production processes, analyzing quality data to find trends and issues, documenting and reporting on quality control activities, and implementing corrective and preventive actions to resolve problems and ensure continuous improvement.
 
Here’s a breakdown of these responsibilities:

1. Testing and Inspection: Opens in new tabThis involves conducting tests, measurements, and visual inspections of raw materials, in-process items, and finished products to ensure they meet established quality standards, blueprints, and customer specifications. 
2. Production Process Monitoring: Opens in new tabQC professionals monitor the actual manufacturing or production process to ensure that quality standards are maintained at every stage and provide real-time feedback to make necessary adjustments. 
3. Data Analysis and Reporting: Opens in new tabCollecting, analyzing, and reporting on quality performance data is a crucial function. This helps identify trends, patterns, and potential areas of concern, which then informs management and production teams about potential problems. 
4. Documentation and Record Keeping: Opens in new tabMaintaining accurate and detailed records of all quality control activities, including test results, inspections, and non-conformities, is essential. These records are vital for tracking issues, proving compliance, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives. 
5. Problem Resolution and Improvement: Opens in new tabWhen issues, defects, or deviations are identified, QC is responsible for investigating the root cause and developing/implementing corrective actions. They also contribute to continuous improvement by participating in initiatives and recommending process or product enhancements. 

What does QC mean in cars?

Quality control on a vehicle is a systematic process aimed at ensuring the vehicle meets predefined standards of performance, safety, and reliability. It involves thorough checks at every stage of manufacturing, including the inspection of raw materials, components, assembly processes, and final product tests.