Daikin India Quality Engineer Interview: Rounds, Questions and Preparation

What the job involves

A Quality Engineer in manufacturing and automobile sectors ensures that products and processes meet defined quality standards and customer requirements. Day to day, they inspect materials, analyse defects, maintain documentation, and work with production teams to solve quality issues. At companies like Daikin India, they also support audits, implement corrective actions, and drive continuous improvement.

Role and Technical Knowledge

1. 1

   What are the 7 QC tools and how have you used any of them in a project or internship?

   Name all seven tools (check sheet, histogram, Pareto chart, cause-and-effect diagram, scatter diagram, control chart, flowchart). Give a brief example of using one, like a Pareto chart to prioritise defects.

2. 2

   Explain the difference between accuracy and precision with an example from measurement.

   Accuracy is closeness to true value, precision is repeatability. Use a vernier caliper example: if true dimension is 10.00 mm, readings of 10.02, 10.02, 10.02 are precise but not accurate.

3. 3

   What is SPC and why is it important in automobile manufacturing?

   SPC uses control charts to monitor process stability. It helps detect trends before defects occur, reducing scrap and ensuring consistent quality in high-volume production.

4. 4

   What do you understand by GD&T? Give an example of a symbol and its meaning.

   GD&T is a symbolic language to define allowable variations. Example: flatness symbol controls how flat a surface must be. Mention that it reduces ambiguity in inspection.

Practical Scenarios

1. 5

   You find that a batch of components has a dimensional deviation. What steps will you take?

   Describe immediate containment (quarantine), root cause analysis using 5 Why or Fishbone, corrective action, and verification. Mention documenting in a CAPA or 8D format.

2. 6

   A production supervisor argues that a minor defect is acceptable to meet dispatch targets. How do you handle it?

   Emphasise adherence to quality standards and customer requirements. Suggest discussing with the quality head, reviewing the control plan, and if needed, seeking a deviation approval through proper channel.

3. 7

   How would you set up an inspection plan for a new machined part?

   Cover identifying critical characteristics from drawings, selecting appropriate gauges, defining frequency and sample size, creating a control plan, and training inspectors.

4. 8

   During an internal audit, you notice a calibration sticker is missing on a gauge. What do you do?

   Stop using the gauge immediately, verify its calibration status, initiate a non-conformance report, and check if any measurements taken with it are affected. Suggest corrective action to prevent recurrence.

Behavioural and HR

1. 9

   Tell me about a time you worked in a team to solve a problem. What was your role?

   Use STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result. Highlight collaboration, communication, and a measurable outcome like reduced defects or time saved.

2. 10

   Why do you want to work as a Quality Engineer in manufacturing?

   Show passion for precision, problem-solving, and continuous improvement. Relate to your academic projects or internships and mention interest in sectors like HVAC or automotive.

3. 11

   How do you handle pressure when multiple deadlines are approaching?

   Give an example of prioritising tasks, using checklists, and communicating with stakeholders. Emphasise staying calm and focusing on quality without compromising standards.

4. 12

   Where do you see yourself in five years in this role?

   Show ambition to grow into a senior quality engineer or quality manager role, with deeper expertise in Six Sigma, audits, or supplier quality. Mention willingness to learn and take certifications.

Company and Sector Awareness

1. 13

   What do you know about our company and its products?

   Research the company's main products (e.g., air conditioners, refrigeration), its manufacturing locations, and quality philosophy. Mention any recent news or awards related to quality.

2. 14

   What are the common quality challenges in HVAC or automobile manufacturing?

   Talk about tight tolerances, leak testing, surface finish, and supplier quality. Mention that HVAC involves pressure and leak tests, while automobile focuses on safety and fitment.

3. 15

   How does ISO 9001 help a manufacturing company?

   ISO 9001 provides a framework for quality management systems, ensuring consistent processes, customer satisfaction, and continual improvement. Mention that it is often a prerequisite for global customers.

4. 16

   What is the role of a quality engineer in new product development?

   They ensure quality is designed in from the start through APQP, PPAP, and control plans. They also conduct capability studies and validate prototypes before mass production.