SCOPE:The Supplier Quality Engineer is responsible for developing and executing supplier quality strategies that ensure the delivery of high-quality materials, components, and services. This role manages supplier qualification, performance monitoring, and continuous improvement initiatives. The Supplier Quality Engineer collaborates with cross-functional teams to resolve quality issues, supports new product introductions, and drives compliance with regulatory and sustainability requirements.
RESPONSIBILITIES:- Develop and implement supplier quality initiatives aligned with business objectives and growth plans.
- Identify, evaluate, and qualify suppliers to ensure they meet quality, reliability, and compliance standards.
- Lead supplier audits, manage corrective action processes, and monitor supplier performance.
- Collaborate with Engineering, Sourcing, and Operations teams to support new product introductions and resolve supplier-related quality issues.
- Analyze quality data, conduct root cause analyses, and identify opportunities for defect reduction and value creation.
- Maintain accurate supplier quality documentation, including audit reports, scorecards, and compliance records.
- Drive supplier development, risk mitigation, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Support sustainability and regulatory compliance efforts within the supply base.
- Facilitate cross-functional communication and training on supplier quality policies and best practices.
- Promote a culture of accountability, teamwork, and operational excellence.
- Work with Sourcing on rating, qualifying, and disqualifying suppliers.
- Support the improvement of supplier on-time delivery and supplier reject rate metrics.
- Reduce costs by minimizing supplier-caused scrap and rework.
- Manage the First Article Inspection (FAI) process for new parts and new suppliers, ensuring all dimensions, material certifications, and "Critical to Quality" (CTQ) characteristics align with engineering drawings.
- Serve as a liaison between the Quality and Engineering departments and suppliers.
- Advocate on suppliers' behalf when engineering specifications are unreasonable, incomplete, inconsistent, or unclear.
- Work with suppliers to identify cost-reduction opportunities.
- Partner with suppliers to implement Lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma tools to improve yields and reduce variability in supplied components.
- Work closely with Engineering during the Design for Manufacturability (DFM) phase to ensure suppliers can meet proposed tolerances and specifications.
EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or a related field required.
- 5+ years of experience in supplier quality engineering, quality assurance, or supply chain management within a manufacturing environment.
- Production/manufacturing experience is required.
- Low-volume, high-mix manufacturing experience is preferred.
- Experience with ISO 9001 standards is a plus.
- Demonstrated success in supplier qualification, audit management, and quality improvement initiatives.
- Strong knowledge of quality systems, supplier qualification, and performance tracking methods.
- Excellent analytical, communication, and project management skills.
- Proficiency with ERP systems, Microsoft Office, and quality analytics tools.
- Self-motivated with a high level of follow-through and accountability.
- Experience with AS400 or similar ERP systems is a plus.
- Familiarity with machining, metal fabrication, and MR
