Are you passionate about vehicle quality and automotive manufacturing? Do you thrive in an environment where precision, attention to detail, and continuous improvement are at the heart of everything you do? Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers (KVM) is looking for a dedicated and experienced Quality Inspector to join our Production Department at our Thika-based plant.
KVM has a long-standing legacy of excellence in vehicle manufacturing. As a key player in the Kenyan automotive industry, we are committed to delivering world-class vehicles and services to our customers and partners. Quality is central to our operations, and our Quality Control team plays a pivotal role in upholding this standard. This is your opportunity to contribute to the continuous improvement and innovation that define KVM.
Position: Quality Inspector
- Division: Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers
- Department: Quality Control
- Section/Unit: Production
- Workstation: Thika, KVM
- Reports to: Quality Engineer
- Direct Reports: N/A
- Indirect Reports: N/A
Job Purpose
The Quality Inspector is responsible for ensuring the quality and compliance of vehicles during the assembly process. This involves conducting thorough inspections at various production stages, managing vehicle documentation, giving immediate feedback to production teams, and leading defect root cause analysis (RCA) to implement corrective measures. This role directly supports the integrity of KVM’s vehicle manufacturing standards and contributes to the improvement of quality systems and processes across the board.
Main Responsibilities
Operational Responsibilities
1. Quality Control of Inline Assembly Processes and Workmanship
- Conduct inspections during all phases of the assembly line to ensure compliance with Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) specifications and KVM’s internal quality standards.
- Approve or reject components and assembled units based on clear quality criteria.
- Document and escalate any defects discovered during inspections for further resolution.
2. Assembly Documentation Management
- Print and issue each vehicle’s documentation package for use on the assembly line.
- Ensure that assembly technicians complete all relevant check sheets and documentation accurately and thoroughly.
3. Data Collection and Analysis
- Collect data on inspection results and defect frequencies throughout the assembly process.
- Analyze inspection data to detect trends, root causes of recurring issues, and areas for continuous improvement.
- Maintain meticulous records of inspections, test outcomes, and improvement measures.
4. Feedback and Defect Rate Reporting
- Deliver real-time feedback to technicians, team leads, and supervisors on any identified quality issues.
- Prepare and distribute daily defect reports to the Quality Assurance Coordinator and related departments.
- Communicate findings effectively to both internal and external stakeholders, contributing to collaborative quality improvement.
5. Process Improvement
- Proactively identify and recommend areas for improvement in quality checks and vehicle assembly processes.
- Participate in the creation and revision of inspection check sheets to ensure they are aligned with current processes and standards.
- Work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to introduce and monitor corrective and preventive actions.
6. Defect Reduction and Root Cause Analysis (RCA)
- Conduct thorough root cause analysis of significant and repetitive defects identified during final inspections and audits.
- Implement corrective and preventive measures, ensuring effective follow-through and monitoring outcomes.
- Promote adherence to safety and quality standards throughout the production process.
Working Relationships
Internal Customers
- General Manager
- Production Manager
- Logistics Manager
- Quality Manager
- Product Auditors
- Other Quality Inspectors
- Paint-shop Manager
- Finance Department
- Human Resource Department
External Customers
- Customers
- Vehicle Dealers
- Service Providers
- Special Product Developers
- OEM Representatives
Competencies Required
Technical Skills
- Basic understanding of vehicle assembly and quality inspection practices.
- Foundational automotive technical knowledge.
- Awareness of assembly line standards and procedures.
- General knowledge of production flows and sequencing.
Functional Skills
- Strong analytical skills with a keen eye for detail.
- Ability to perform basic statistical and trend analysis.
- Clear report-writing capabilities and emerging presentation skills.
- Proactive problem-solving abilities and a commitment to process optimization.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal interaction with team members across all levels.
Behavioral Skills
- Business Acumen: Familiarity with core automotive business operations and industry trends.
- Flexibility & Adaptability: Ability to multitask and respond to changes in a dynamic production environment.
- Perspective & Foresight: Considers various dimensions of issues and anticipates outcomes.
- Quick Learner: Eagerness and ability to acquire new industry and technical knowledge swiftly.
- Quality Decision-Making: Makes well-informed decisions using available data and insights.
- Integrity & Trust: Upholds organizational values, maintains confidentiality, and admits errors openly.
- Drive for Results: Takes initiative, pursues tasks with energy, and sees projects through to completion.
- Relationship Management: Builds rapport across departments and understands organizational dynamics.
Experience Requirements
- Minimum of 2 years’ experience in a Quality Control role within a vehicle assembly or automotive manufacturing plant.
- Demonstrated ability to perform rigorous inspections in a fast-paced production environment.
- Must be an experienced vehicle driver.
Academic and Professional Requirements
- Diploma or Degree in Mechanical Engineering (Automotive, Production, or Manufacturing Engineering preferred).
- Certification in Quality Control is a significant advantage.
Why Join Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers?
- Be part of an established and respected automotive manufacturer in Kenya.
- Contribute directly to improving vehicle quality, safety, and reliability.
- Collaborate with skilled professionals in a progressive and supportive environment.
- Opportunities for professional growth and skill development in automotive engineering and quality management.
How to Apply
If you are a results-oriented professional with a keen eye for detail and a commitment to quality, we would love to hear from you.
