Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial, Quality, or related field)
5-7 years of experience in supplier quality management including PPAP, APQP, and 8D
Strong understanding of quality assessment tools such as PFMEA, Control Plans, and SPC
Experience in process assessment and gap analysis
Preferred certifications: CQE, CQA, or equivalent
Experience with ISO 9001 or IATF 16949 environments
Data analysis skills for KPI tracking, particularly in supplier performance
Responsibilities
Assess and identify gaps in supplier quality processes like PPAP and 8D corrective actions
Define and implement standard operating procedures for suppliers
Improve PPAP quality through standard review criteria
Strengthen corrective actions via root cause analysis
Develop strategies to reduce Cost of Poor Quality targeting key suppliers
Conduct supplier assessments and audits to enhance compliance
Collaborate with various teams to resolve supplier-related issues
Drive initiatives for defect prevention and quality improvements
Benefits
Opportunity for leadership in supplier quality initiatives
Access to continuous improvement projects
Work with cross-functional teams enhancing collaboration skills
Professional growth in a crucial manufacturing sector
Exposure to international quality standards and certifications
Full Job Description
Job Summary:
The Supplier Quality SME provides technical and process leadership to enhance supplier quality systems and standardize best practices across the supply base
Focuses on identifying gaps in supplier quality processes and driving continuous improvement initiatives
Works to improve supplier performance, reduce Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ), and ensure consistent compliance and efficiency
Ensures supplier quality systems are aligned with manufacturing and business objectives
Roles & Responsibilities:
Assess and identify gaps in supplier quality processes including PPAP, 8D corrective actions, incoming quality, and supplier performance metrics
Define and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for supplier quality engineers and suppliers
Improve PPAP quality and First Pass Yield (FPY) through standardized review criteria and readiness expectations
Strengthen corrective action effectiveness through proper root cause analysis and validation of permanent solutions
Develop and execute COPQ reduction strategies targeting high-impact suppliers and recurring issues
Conduct supplier assessments, audits, and capability evaluations to improve compliance and maturity
Collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, Procurement, and Quality teams to resolve systemic supplier issues
Lead supplier development initiatives including improvement plans and follow-up actions