Quality Technician

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

Quality Assurance & Control

• Coordinate with the Plant Manager and Senior Manager R&D ANZ to establish, monitor and report on quality benchmarks and KPIs for products and processes.
• Help maintain quality data records, including inspection reports and product defect logs.
• Assist in routine quality checks on raw materials, in-process items, and finished products to ensure consistent product quality and compliance with specifications.
• Assist with documenting production quality issues, including taking photos and entering observations into tracking systems.
• Assist with creating documentation to support and guide operator-level staff in identifying common defects, documenting these with photos, and developing visual aids and guides to prevent recurrence.
• Work with team leads and operators to review and improve work instructions on a regular basis, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and compliance with production requirements. Track the number of updates completed.
• Help prepare workstations with up-to-date quality control documentation and materials.
• Assist to perform root cause analysis of quality issues, returns, rejects, and support corrective actions.
• Implement quality process improvements to reduce waste and increase operational efficiency.
• Review and recommend improvements to quality policies and procedures; assist in implementing changes.
• Carry out assigned tasks related to quality improvement suggestions and Kaizen activities.
• Maintain and support the improvement of the Integrated Management System (IMS).
• Support the establishment and coordination of a Quality Committee, including scheduling meetings, capturing actions, and reporting feedback to management.
• Coordinate the Quality Representative program, supporting and mentoring operator-level Quality Reps across the site.
• Participate in quality review meetings and take minutes or follow-up notes when required.

Audits, Compliance & Regulatory

• Assist with audits by preparing checklists and supporting documentation.
• Support the tracking of non-conformance reports and follow up on corrective actions under supervision.
• Help maintain compliance documentation for product certifications and external audits.
• Provide assistance in coordinating product testing with external facilities to support product certifications and regulatory approvals, including packaging and dispatching samples, and liaising with external Conformity Assessment Bodies.

Training & Development

• Assist in the development and improvement of quality documentation, including manuals, training materials or visual guides for operator use, and internal documentation.
• Support training facilitation on quality processes.
• Contribute to maintaining a strong quality culture on site.

Regulatory and Compliance

• Comply with relevant legislation, regulations and policy that impact on/relate to Apex.
• Keep sensitive customer and/or product information confidential in accordance with applicable legislation and Watts policies.

Health and Safety

• Maintain a clean and safe working environment, adhering to all health and safety regulations.
• Compliance with all Apex Health and Safety policies and procedures.
• Actively contribute to Health and Safety initiatives and the continuous improvement of all aspects of Health and Safety.
• Report incidents, near misses and safety opportunities in a timely manner and in contribution to company targets.
• Ensure your actions follow safe work practices to maintain a safe environment for yourself and everyone on site.

Other Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with the 5S system in your work area.
• Participate in cross-functional continuous improvement initiatives, applying quality expertise to problem-solving.
• Identify opportunities for waste reduction, safety and efficiency improvements through quick Kaizen submissions.

EDUCATION

• Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Engineering
• OR Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Business Administration
• OR Diploma in Quality Assurance (DipQA) 

EXPERIENCE

• Prior experience in a quality or administration role within a production environment
• In-depth knowledge of quality standards, processes and methodologies
• Experience with manufacturing and production processes and engineering principles

MINIMUM REQUIRED SKILLS

• Regulatory Interpretation: Ability to interpret and translate complex regulations and standards into practical, actionable quality processes that align with organisational needs and industry requirements.
• Process Improvement: Strong capability to analyse existing workflows and provide guidance for enhancing process efficiency, with a focus on continuous improvement and waste reduction initiatives (including Kaizen/5S).
• Analytical Thinking: Proficient in data analysis, including the use of statistical tools (e.g., SPC, control charts) to identify trends, resolve quality issues, and assess process capability. Comfortable applying root cause analysis methodologies to troubleshoot and resolve quality concerns.
• Attention to Detail: Exceptional attention to detail, with the ability to identify potential issues at early stages and ensure accuracy in both documentation and product specifications.
• Problem-Solving & Troubleshooting: Strong problem-solving skills, particularly in identifying defects or inefficiencies and implementing innovative solutions in fast-paced production environments.
• Project Management: Excellent project management skills, with the ability to organise, prioritise, and manage multiple projects simultaneously. Comfortable working with cross-functional teams to achieve project objectives on time.
• Team Collaboration: Highly effective team player with a collaborative mindset, able to work across diverse and cross functional teams and contribute positively to a team-oriented environment. Proven ability to influence and support team goals.
• Communication & Documentation: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex ideas in a clear and concise manner. Proficient in documenting procedures, reports, and quality-related data in a structured and organised manner.
• Technical Proficiency: High proficiency in standard MS Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) for data entry, analysis, report creation, and general administrative tasks. Comfortable using other quality related software and tools.
• Self-Motivation & Drive: A mature, self-motivated, and results-driven individual with a strong sense of ownership and accountability, consistently striving to meet or exceed quality goals and objectives.
• Influence & Networking: Excellent networking, influencing, and communication skills, with the ability to build relationships and engage stakeholders across all levels of the organisation.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Physical ability to lift heavy materials and stand for extended periods.
• Permission to complete a pre-employment heath check to ensure meets standard required for role.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• R&D
• Production areas
• Office areas