Quality Continuous Improvement Engineer

Are you inspired by challenging the status quo? Do you thrive in collaborative environments that drive results? If so, Gates could be for you.

Gates is a leading manufacturer of application-specific fluid power and power transmission solutions. We push the boundaries of material science to engineer solutions that continually exceed customer expectations.

Let's simplify it, think belts and hoses. Found in motorcycles, conveyor belts, cars, tractors, blenders, vacuum cleaners, bicycles, & 3D printers just to name a few. Because why not do it all?

What to expect

The Quality Continuous Improvement Engineer is responsible for leading and executing quality and continuous improvement initiatives across EMEA manufacturing operations. This role drives the reduction of quality costs, material losses, and manufacturing incidents through the application of Lean, Six Sigma, and structured problem-solving methodologies. Working closely with plant teams and cross-functional stakeholders, the incumbent identifies root causes, implements sustainable corrective actions, and promotes best practices to improve product quality, operational performance, and customer satisfaction across the region.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Lead continuous improvement projects aimed at reducing quality costs, material losses, scrap, and manufacturing incidents across EMEA operations.
• Apply structured problem-solving methodologies, including DMAIC, 8D, DOE, Root Cause Analysis, and statistical tools to identify and eliminate sources of variation and quality issues.
• Partner with manufacturing teams to implement process, product, and quality control improvements that deliver sustainable performance gains.
• Identify, document, and promote best practices across manufacturing sites to improve operational and quality performance.
• Support the deployment of proven quality and manufacturing practices across global regions where similar products and processes exist.
• Serve as a quality subject matter expert for product and process changes, ensuring successful implementation without adverse impact on quality, customers, or operations.
• Support supplier quality improvement initiatives and collaborate with Supplier Quality teams to enhance supplier performance, quality, and reliability.
• Contribute to the development, deployment, and ongoing improvement of manufacturing quality standards and procedures.
• Influence and coach stakeholders in the use of quality tools, continuous improvement methodologies, and change management practices.

Keys to Success

• Acquires general knowledge of principles and practices of related fields, and ability to function on multidisciplinary teams.
• Has knowledge of best practices and how own area integrates with others; is aware of the competition and the factors that differentiate the company in the market

Supervisory Responsibilities

• None
• Acts as a resource for other team members; may lead projects with limited risks and resource requirements

Requirements And Preferred Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• 5-7 years overall professional experience including at least 3 years of experience in Quality Engineering, Continuous Improvement, Operational Excellence, or a similar manufacturing environment.
• Six Sigma Black Belt certification required.
• Hands-on experience utilizing Lean Manufacturing, DMAIC, DOE, 8D, Root Cause Analysis, and other structured problem-solving methodologies to drive measurable improvements.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional improvement projects and deliver sustainable business results.
• Strong project management, change management, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and quality tools such as Minitab and SPC software.
• Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to influence across functions and organizational levels.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE), Certified Quality Auditor (CQA), or equivalent certification preferred.
• Experience in automotive, industrial manufacturing, power transmission, or other high-volume manufacturing environments preferred.

Travel

• Willingness to travel within EMEA up to 30%

Why Gates?

Founded in 1911 in Denver, Colorado, Gates is publicly traded on the NYSE. While we might operate in a vast amount of time zones we operate as 'One Gates' and have a common goal of pushing the boundaries of materials science. We invest in our people, bringing real-world experience that enables us to solve our customers' diverse challenges of today and anticipate those of tomorrow.

Work Environment

Gates is an Equal Opportunity and is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of race, sex, color, religion, age, disability, pregnancy, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, genetic information, marital status, or any other consideration defined by law.

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Gates Job Applicants Privacy Statement