Managing the testing, monitoring, and inspecting processes of a business is often the job of a Quality Engineer. They check a number of areas to ensure a product can go on the market and has met the industry’s criteria. They can monitor or check products or they can assess the equipment or machinery that conducts the work.

They may work in labs, production floors, in manufacturing companies or in computer software firms. They do structured and random compliance testing, reporting any faults and sending back any defunct products or devices. Quality Engineers often use tools such as gauges, ohmmeters, volt meters, or calipers. These engineers can assess processes as well; processes usually dictate the productivity or how effective the outcome of something will be.

Their job is highly technical, can be time consuming and rewarding. They will need to coordinate with departments, collect data, analyze customer data, and resolve supplier issues. Quality Engineers work to continual improve upon the processes within a company.

A Quality Engineer usually performs many of the following tasks:

•  Implementing of corrective action
• Improving quality systems
• Assisting quality manager
• Managing quality awareness
• Liaising with engineers and inspectors
•  Conducting audits
• Creating quality documentation
• Preparing QA reports

• Communication and presentation
• Administration and organization
• Maintaining confidentiality
• Computer literate
• Project and time management
• Understanding statistics
• Multi-tasking
• Prioritizing assignments and planning
• Managing or working in teams
• Resolving problems creatively and troubleshooting
• Professionalism and reliability
• Being respectful and cordial

Quality Engineering is offered at the Associates, Bachelors and Masters degree level. People may pursue a Diploma or Associate to start off their careers and then continue their education at a later time. Completing studies in areas such as quality, mechanical or industrial engineering is also applicable in working as a Quality Engineer.

Many employers may prefer a well educated and experienced individual who has gone as far as the Masters Degree level or even pursuing a Post Graduate education. Certifications can also be accessed for this field, and there are several options. The American Society for Quality (ASQ) has a number of certifications that Quality Engineers can complete to become CQE (Certified Quality Engineer).