Torque Engineer The Torque Engineer is responsible for ensuring the integrity, reliability, and compliance of bolted and threaded joint assembly processes throughout manufacturing operations. This position leads joint studies and torque analysis, audits torque-controlled assembly processes, manages torque tooling calibration programs, and drives continuous improvement initiatives to ensure product quality, safety, and customer satisfaction. The Torque Engineer serves as the subject matter expert for torque application, tightening strategies, joint design evaluation, and torque tool performance, working closely with Quality, Manufacturing, Product Engineering, Operations, and Suppliers.
Key Responsibilities:
Joint Analysis & Validation: Conduct joint studies to evaluate bolted assemblies and determine optimal fastening strategies. Develop and validate torque specifications based on engineering requirements, joint characteristics, and industry best practices. Perform torque-tension correlation testing and joint characterization studies. Analyze the effects of lubrication, coatings, material variation, and assembly processes on fastening performance. Support design reviews by providing recommendations on joint integrity and fastening reliability.
Torque Process Auditing: Audit manufacturing torque processes to ensure compliance with company standards, customer requirements, and quality management systems. Evaluate assembly stations for proper torque application methods, tooling suitability, and process controls. Verify traceability, data collection, and error-proofing systems related to torque-controlled assemblies. Identify process gaps and lead corrective actions to improve assembly quality and reduce defects. Develop audit checklists, procedures, and standard work instructions for torque-critical operations.
Tooling Calibration & Management: Own and maintain the calibration program for torque tools, transducers, analyzers, and associated measurement equipment. Ensure all torque tools are calibrated according to established intervals and quality standards. Coordinate with internal and external calibration service providers. Maintain calibration records and ensure compliance with ISO 9001, customer, and regulatory requirements. Monitor tooling performance, investigate failures, and implement preventive maintenance strategies.
Continuous Improvement: Lead root cause investigations related to torque failures, joint failures, and assembly defects. Apply statistical methods and data analysis to improve process capability and fastening reliability. Develop and implement continuous improvement projects that improve first-pass yield and reduce warranty risks. Support PFMEA, Control Plans, and risk assessments for torque-critical assemblies. Train operators, technicians, and engineers on torque best practices and tool usage.
Cross-Functional Support: Collaborate with Product Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Quality teams on fastening-related issues. Support customer audits and supplier evaluations involving torque-controlled processes. Provide technical expertise during new product introduction (NPI) and process launches. Assist in developing engineering standards and corporate fastening specifications.
Education:
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related technical field required.
Experience:
3-7 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, quality engineering, fastening technology, or torque process management. Experience conducting torque audits, joint analysis, and torque tool validation. Experience managing calibration programs within a manufacturing environment. Knowledge of bolted joint design principles and fastening technologies. Technical Knowledge: Understanding of torque-tension relationships and bolted joint mechanics. Experience with DC electric, pulse, click, and hydraulic torque tools. Familiarity with torque analyzers, transducers, and calibration equipment. Knowledge of statistical process control (SPC), MSA, PFMEA, and root cause analysis methodologies. Working knowledge of ISO 9001 quality systems and calibration requirements. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and data analysis tools.
Preferred Qualifications:
ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) or similar certification. Training or certification in fastening technology, bolted joint analysis, or torque application systems. Experience with Atlas Copco, Desoutter, Ingersoll Rand, Mountz, or similar assembly tooling systems. Experience in automotive, industrial equipment, HVAC, aerospace, or high-reliability manufacturing environments.
Key Competencies:
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Attention to detail and commitment to quality. Excellent communication and training abilities. Ability to lead cross-functional investigations and improvement projects. Strong organizational and project management skills. Data-driven decision making.
