MissionBuild the supplier network behind a field-deployable water system. Architect quality and reliability into the supply chain from day one and help turn a prototype into a product that can scale anywhere.
What You'll Do- Architect and implement core supplier management systems to ensure traceability, accountability, and quality control
- Develop and scale a high-performing, resilient supplier network aligned with cost, capacity, delivery, and quality targets
- Lead supplier qualification, onboarding, and technical assessments, including DFM reviews, process flow validation, and QMS audits
- Define and enforce technical and quality standards across new product introduction (NPI) and production
- Partner with internal engineering teams to ensure suppliers fully understand and can meet tight part, assembly, and metrology requirements
- Own the lifecycle of supplier issues from non-conformance reports (SDRs) to CAPAs, RTVs, and production quality investigations
- Collaborate directly with vendors to solve recurring issues and drive process-level improvements
- Conduct performance audits and risk reviews, implementing corrective actions where needed
- Provide on-site technical support as needed to ensure supplier processes are dialed for manufacturability, stability, and spec compliance
- Monitor supplier metrics and trend data to proactively mitigate risks and improve operational performance
- Source and evaluate new suppliers with unique capabilities in materials, fabrication, and metrology
- Build and enforce scalable supplier governance and escalation frameworks from scratch
- Thrive in ambiguity build process where none exists, and push for excellence where it does
What We're Looking For- A builder's mindset and a systems-level view of manufacturing
- Experience in supplier quality, NPI, or manufacturing engineering in hardware, climate tech, or industrial systems
- Familiarity with QMS tools and standards (e.g., ISO 9001, PPAP, FAI, Cpk, PFMEA)
- Excellent communication and problem-solving skills in fast-paced, cross-functional environments
- A track record of owning hard problems end-to-end and getting things done under real-world constraints
Physical Job Requirements - Essential Functions- Hands on work on development hardware.
- Long periods of standing, crouching, walking.
- Lifting up to 50 lbs
Why Join Vital Lyfe?- Work on high-impact problems with global relevance
- Help scale breakthrough technology in water security and climate resilience
- Early ownership in a high-growth, engineering-led startup
- Join a tight-knit, mission-driven team in a fast-paced environment
- Build long-term career equity as we grow
Location Requirement: Ability to work 100% onsite in Torrance, CA (remote or hybrid work will not be considered)
