QA Specialist

Brio Water Technology•City of Industry, CA

About The Position

The Quality Specialist is responsible for ensuring the quality, performance, and reliability of retail products through inspection, testing, and data-driven analysis. This role focuses on evaluating returned products, identifying root causes of defects, analyzing return trends, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives. The Quality Specialist works cross-functionally with Quality Assurance, Customer Service, and Operations teams to reduce product defects and improve overall customer satisfaction.

Requirements

Bachelors degree or higher required
2–3 years of experience in product quality, inspection, data analysis
Experience with product testing, returns processing, or quality analysis preferred
Basic mechanical aptitude and familiarity with small appliances
Strong attention to detail and analytical thinking skills
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple tasks
Basic computer skills (Excel, Word, email, ERP/RMA systems)
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods

Nice To Haves

Experience with retail product quality and returns analysis
Familiarity with water cooler systems (compressors, heating and cooling, filtration)
Knowledge of quality tools (RCA, CAPA, 5 Whys)
Experience using handheld tools and multimeters
Understanding of continuous improvement practices

Responsibilities

Receive, track, and inspect returned retail products and samples
Perform functional testing (cooling, heating, leakage, and performance validation)
Conduct visual inspections to identify physical damage and cosmetic defects
Diagnose root causes of product failures using inspection and testing data
Differentiate between functional defects, cosmetic issues, and customer misuse
Utilize quality tools (e.g., 5 Whys, basic RCA methods) to identify failure trends
Analyze return data to identify recurring product issues and defect trends
Maintain detailed inspection logs, test results, and quality reports
Provide insights and recommendations to improve product quality and reduce returns
Support development of KPIs and quality metrics related to returns and defects
Determine product disposition (resale, refurbishment, parts recovery, or scrap)
Perform basic repairs or component replacements when authorized
Partner with Customer Service, and Product teams to resolve quality issues
Communicate findings related to missing parts, defects, or misuse
Support corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) based on defect trends
Maintain an organized, safe, and efficient workspace (5S standards)
Assist with inventory reconciliation of returned products
Ensure compliance with company SOPs and quality standards