ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:- Lead supplier qualification and approval for raw materials (cathode, anode, electrolyte, separator, foils, and related materials).
- Drive supplier corrective actions using the 8D methodology, including containment, root cause analysis, and corrective action closure.
- Manage Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) and the Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) using AIAG core tools.
- Plan and conduct supplier risk, QMS, product, and process audits; maintain supplier scorecards tracking Quality and Delivery performance.
- Develop and administer Safe Launch plans, including enhanced inspection controls and agreed exit criteria, to protect early production material.
- Support material specification development and Special Characteristic agreement with R&D and Engineering; verify material certifications and lot traceability back to raw materials.
- Ensure supplier measurement systems are capable and traceable and manage supplier process and material change notifications.
- Partner with Supply Chain & Procurement on supplier risk assessment, new supplier onboarding, and sub-tier supplier management.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:- 2+ years of experience in supplier quality engineering or a closely related quality function.
- Technical background in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline.
- Strong root cause analysis and problem-solving skills (8D, 5-Why, fishbone, etc.).
- Experience with AIAG core tools (APQP, PPAP, FMEA).
- Experience with raw material sourcing, supplier qualification, or incoming quality management.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work cross-functionally with Engineering, Supply Chain & Procurement, and Manufacturing & Operations.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:- Six Sigma experience (Green Belt or Black Belt level) or equivalent process improvement experience.
- Experience in battery cell manufacturing or battery materials.
- Working knowledge of cell chemistry and materials specifications.
- Experience with APQP/PPAP processes.
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:10-20% travel for domestic and/or international supplier site visits; may flex up or down based on program needs and timelines.
