Senior Supplier Quality Engineer

Senior Supplier Quality Engineer 

Position Summary:

The Senior Supplier Quality Engineer is responsible for developing and executing supplier quality initiatives to ensure suppliers consistently meet company quality standards and business objectives. This role serves as the primary quality liaison between the company and its suppliers, partnering with Procurement, Engineering, Operations, and Manufacturing teams to drive supplier qualification, audits, compliance, continuous improvement, and defect prevention.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement supplier quality strategies aligned with business goals.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to integrate supplier quality initiatives into NPI, alternate sourcing, and manufacturing activities.
• Establish supplier qualification, performance monitoring, and continuous improvement processes.
• Manage supplier quality metrics, including defect rates, non-conformance reports (NCRs), corrective actions, and supplier performance indicators.
• Conduct supplier audits, assessments, and performance reviews to ensure compliance and drive improvement.
• Evaluate supplier process capabilities for critical-to-quality features and manufacturing requirements.
• Collaborate with suppliers on root cause analysis, corrective actions, and long-term process improvements.
• Train suppliers on quality expectations, problem-solving methodologies, and company requirements.
• Support First Article Inspection (FAI) requirements and enforce AQL sampling plans.
• Promote a zero-defect quality culture across the supplier network.
• Participate in Material Review Board (MRB) activities as required.
• Maintain strong supplier relationships to ensure effective communication, collaboration, and accountability.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Strong understanding of mechanical drawings, GD&T, and electromechanical schematics.
• Proficiency with quality tools including 8D, 5-Why, Fishbone, and Kepner-Tregoe methodologies.
• Knowledge of Statistical Process Control (SPC), process capability analysis, and Cp/Cpk measurements.
• Experience with Design for Manufacturability (DFM), Design for Serviceability (DFS), and cost reduction practices.
• Familiarity with machining, milling, and manufacturing processes preferred.
• Ability to interpret CMM inspection reports and utilize mechanical inspection tools such as calipers and micrometers.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Experience managing multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong analytical, organizational, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to conduct investigations, audits, and data-driven presentations.
• Experience with CAD tools such as SolidWorks preferred.

Experience Requirements

• 8+ years of experience in Supplier Quality Engineering, Quality Engineering, Manufacturing, or related fields.
• Experience working within ISO 9001, ISO 13485, IATF 16949, or similar Quality Management Systems.
• Experience conducting internal and supplier audits.
• Experience with supplier qualification, process validation, and method transfers.
• Semiconductor industry experience preferred.
• Experience with Minitab or other statistical analysis software is a plus.

Education & Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical discipline.
• Relevant certifications such as Certified Supplier Quality Professional (CSQP), Certified Quality Auditor (CQA), or Six Sigma are preferred.

Additional Requirements

• This is a fully onsite position, five days per week.
• Requires up to 35% travel to supplier locations, including local, domestic, and international sites.