Principal Quality Engineer

About The Role The Principal Quality Engineer will lead the development of data-driven quality systems, using SPC, measurement analysis, and advanced analytics to proactively identify risks, control variation, and improve reliability across production lines. They will partner across design, operations, suppliers, and new product introduction teams to embed smart factory methods—including predictive quality, automation, and digital traceability—ensuring seamless customer experiences and robust performance in next-generation manufacturing environments. What You Will Do Lead or contribute to transformation initiatives, helping set new standards for how ZT approaches manufacturing risk analysis, quality, and continuous improvement. Define and implement new systems, processes, or frameworks that support the smart factory vision, including automation, metrology, advanced inspection and testing, and predictive analytics. Collaborate across design, quality, manufacturing, test, and supplier engineering to drive solutions that integrate seamlessly into production. Develop, implement, and sustain Statistical Process Control (SPC) systems using industry-standard software. Lead Gauge R&R studies and measurement system analysis to ensure measurement accuracy and reliability. Translate DFM and PFMEA insights into actionable process risk controls across production lines. Perform advanced data analysis to identify trends, detect anomalies, and support predictive quality. Lead supplier qualification, audits, and ongoing supplier quality management, ensuring robust quality throughout the supply chain. Implement and maintain data traceability systems for compliance, customer requirements, and continuous improvement. Support new customer engagement, including quality requirement review, contract manufacturing quality alignment, and onboarding of customer-specific standards. Drive structured problem-solving initiatives for both internal and supplier-related issues. Partner with design, operations, and manufacturing teams to ensure quality during new product introduction (NPI). Explore and deploy AI and automation technologies (machine vision, predictive analytics, anomaly detection, digital twins) to enhance manufacturing quality and efficiency. Ensure compliance with industry quality standards (ISO 9001, IATF 16949, or similar). What You Bring Advanced degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, or a related field. 10–15 years of experience in high-volume, high-complexity manufacturing, with at least 5 years in leadership or transformation roles. Demonstrated expertise in statistical and analytical methods such as regression analysis, correlation analysis, DOE, SPC, PFMEA, Gauge R&R, and commonality studies. Proficiency with data-driven tools such as Minitab, JMP, Python, R, SQL (or equivalent) to analyze and interpret large, complex datasets. Track record of driving measurable improvements in yield, reliability, or process robustness. Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage at both executive and technical levels. Background in electronics assembly, PCBA, servers, or other high-reliability industries (e.g., aerospace, medical devices, automotive, etc.). Experience coaching or mentoring technical teams to upskill in data-driven decision-making. Proficiency in CAD tools (SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and industrial automation platforms (Siemens, Allen-Bradley, etc.). Experience with PLC programming, robotic integration (e.g., 6-axis arms, gantry systems), and industrial sensors. Familiarity with MES systems, Python, or SQL for automation control. Nice to Have Exposure to or knowledge of AI/ML toolsets for statistical problem solving, predictive analytics, or anomaly detection. MBA or exposure to business, finance or economics is advantageous. ZT Systems assesses market data to ensure a competitive compensation package. The typical base salary for this position is expected to be between $141,000 and $188,000 annually. Final base salary will be determined on an individual basis taking into consideration experience, skills, knowledge, education and/or certifications. Base salary is one component of ZT Systems total rewards philosophy. Other rewards may include bonus, paid time off, 401k match, tuition reimbursement, wellbeing resources, and more. We are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this opportunity but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles. About ZT Systems At ZT Systems, you’ll get to do work you are proud of alongside smart, passionate people. You will gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced environment that’s challenging, rewarding, and career-defining. We value hard work, speed, collaboration, and learning from challenges to move forward together. Join ZT Systems and help us build technology infrastructure that connects the world. What We Offer We provide a comprehensive benefits package designed to support well-being, financial security, and professional development. Competitive base salary Performance-based annual bonus eligibility 401(k) retirement savings plan with generous company match Tuition reimbursement for eligible education programs Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage Mental health resources and employee wellness support programs Company-paid life and disability insurance Generous paid time off and holidays Parental leave and family care support programs Structured training programs and on-the-job learning opportunities These benefits are available to eligible employees and are subject to location. ZT Systems is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind and provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants. Some positions may require eligibility to obtain export control licenses or meet other regulatory requirements. All offers are conditional on the foregoing. Seniority level Mid-Senior level Employment type Full-time Job function Quality Assurance Industries Computer Hardware Manufacturing #J-18808-Ljbffr