The Supplier Development Engineer (SDE) is responsible for driving performance improvements across our supplier base. This role works closely with key suppliers to enhance quality, delivery, manufacturing efficiency, and overall operational performance. The SDE will lead supplier improvement initiatives, monitor performance metrics, and support suppliers in developing robust manufacturing processes and capabilities.
Key Responsibilities- Develop, implement, and track supplier performance improvement plans
- Partner with suppliers to drive continuous improvement in quality, delivery, and cost
- Assist or co-lead regular supplier performance reviews using KPIs and scorecards
- Identify root causes of supplier issues and lead corrective and preventive actions
- Support suppliers in process optimization, capacity planning, and production readiness
- Assist with new supplier onboarding, including process validation and capability assessment
- Collaborate with internal teams (Supply Chain, Quality, Engineering) to align supplier strategies
- Perform on-site supplier visits to evaluate operations and provide hands-on support
- Drive adoption of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement tools (Six Sigma, Kaizen, etc.)
- Ensure suppliers meet company standards for quality systems, compliance, and operational excellence
- Executes supplier capacity analysis, identifies bottlenecks and other opportunities for improvement
Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, Manufacturing, or related field)
- 3+ years of experience in manufacturing, supplier quality, or supplier development
- Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes and factory operations
- Experience working directly with suppliers and managing performance improvement initiatives
- Familiarity with quality systems and root cause tools (8D, RCA, FMEA, etc.)
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills
- Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities
- Flexibility to travel to supplier sites - frequent travel is possible at times
Preferred Qualifications- Lean / Six Sigma certification
- Experience with supplier audits or supplier quality systems
- Background in factory setup, process validation, or production ramp-up
