Role purpose
the cqi auditor is responsible for independent execution of aiag cqi‐27 (casting system assessments) and aiag cqi‐32 (bar steel process assessments) at tier 1 and sub‐tier suppliers worldwide. The role ensures assessments are conducted by qualified assessors meeting aiag minimum requirements, with strong emphasis on process knowledge, objective evidence, risk identification, and consistent scoring.
core responsibilities
* conduct onsite cqi‐27 (casting) and cqi‐32 (bar steel) assessments in accordance with aiag cqi methodology.
* verify effective implementation of special process controls, quality management system requirements and automotive core tools.
* validate linkage of pfmea → control plan → work instructions → shop‐floor execution.
* identify high‐risk process gaps affecting safety, durability, and compliance.
* document assessment results with clear, evidence‐based findings.
* review and validate supplier 30‐60‐90 day corrective action plans.
* communicate assessment results to internal stakeholders (sqe, engineering, manufacturing, purchasing).
* support risk‐based audit prioritization and scheduling.
requirements:
1. Process knowledge & experience (cqi requirement)
cqi‐27 – casting
• demonstrated casting process knowledge in one or more of the following: sand casting, high‐pressure or low‐pressure die casting, permanent mold casting, investment casting.
• understanding of melt handling and temperature control, alloy chemistry verification, furnace operation and maintenance, mold/core control, solidification, cooling, and defect mechanisms
cqi‐32 – bar steel
• demonstrated bar steel manufacturing and processing knowledge, including: steelmaking or billet/bar production flow, hot rolling and/or cold finishing, heat treatment of bar steel (normalizing, annealing, quench & temper, stress relief, straightening, cutting, peeling, grinding, or surface conditioning.
• understanding of: chemistry control and traceability, mechanical property requirement, process control during rolling and finishing, inspection methods (dimensional, surface, mechanical), handling, storage, and mix‐prevention
2. Quality management system (qms) auditor qualification such as: iatf 16949 internal auditor or/and iso 9001 / iso/ts 16949 internal or supplier auditor
3. Automotive core tools competency: spc, msa, pfmea, apqp, ppap.
4. Additional required technical skills: interview operators, technicians, engineers, and management, review objective evidence (process records, spc, heat‐treat charts, inspection logs), apply consistent and defensible scoring, strong understanding of aiag cqi assessment intent and risk‐based philosophy.
5. Manufacturing & process knowledge
casting (cqi‐27): melt and furnace controls, alloy verification and chemistry limits, mold and core management, solidification defect root causes (porosity, shrinkage, inclusions), process monitoring and reaction plans, traceability and containment
bar steel (cqi‐32): rolling and finishing process controls, heat treatment verification and documentation, mechanical testing (tensile, hardness, impact), surface inspection and defect classification, lot traceability and segregation. Handling, storage, and damage prevention.
experience requirements
minimum (aiag‐compliant)
* 7–10+ years automotive or regulated manufacturing experience
* prior execution of cqi‐27 and/or cqi‐32 assessments
* experience auditing tier 1 and sub‐tier suppliers
* supplier development and follow‐up audit experience
* bachelor's degree in: mechanical, manufacturing, metallurgical, materials, industrial engineering
* certifications iatf 16949 internal auditor
* available ~75% travel, including domestic and international supplier locations.
* valid passport and us visa.
we offer:
• competitive salary
• benefits that exceed legal requirements
• hybrid work arrangement
• opportunities for professional development
to apply, send your resume to erika.samaniego@international.com