Supplier Development Engineer - Non-Metallic Components

Supplier Development Engineer - Non-Metallic Components

Location: South Carolina

Job Type: Contract

Position Overview

We are seeking a Supplier Development Engineer to support the development, qualification, and continuous improvement of suppliers producing non-metallic components, particularly cowling assemblies.

This role will focus on supplier capability, process excellence, tooling readiness, APQP/PPAP execution, and continuous improvement. The engineer will work closely with Engineering, Purchasing, Quality, and suppliers to support successful new product launches and tooling transfers.

Key Responsibilities

Supplier Development & Qualification

• Develop and qualify new suppliers for non-metallic components.

• Conduct supplier capability assessments, audits, and feasibility reviews.

• Develop supplier improvement plans to achieve quality, delivery, and productivity targets.

Process & Tooling Readiness

• Support tooling transfers and verify tooling installation and readiness at supplier locations.

• Ensure suppliers establish effective process controls.

• Support development and review of PFMEA, Control Plans, and Process Flow Diagrams.

• Evaluate manufacturing processes for readiness and capability.

APQP & PPAP

• Lead suppliers through APQP activities for new product launches and transfers.

• Review and approve PPAP submissions.

• Review dimensional analysis, material certifications, and process capability studies.

• Ensure supplier processes meet applicable quality and regulatory requirements.

Continuous Improvement

• Drive supplier process improvements using Lean Six Sigma principles and manufacturing best practices.

• Monitor supplier performance metrics such as PPM, OTD, and process capability.

• Lead corrective actions and problem-solving activities.

• Support supplier training and capability development.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Engineering, Purchasing, and Quality teams to align supplier requirements and launch timelines.

• Participate in design reviews and provide input on manufacturability and process capability.

• Communicate supplier risks, issues, and improvement actions to stakeholders.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related technical field.

• 3-5 years of experience in supplier quality, supplier development, or manufacturing engineering.

• Experience with non-metallic manufacturing processes, such as:

• Injection molding

• Blow molding

• Thermoforming

• Composite layup

• Strong knowledge of APQP, PPAP, PFMEA, Control Plans, and Process Flow Diagrams.

• Familiarity with DOE, SPC, GD&T, and mold flow analysis.

• Strong problem-solving experience using 8D, A3, 5-Why, and Fishbone methodologies.

• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.

• Strong communication, analytical, and project management skills.

Travel Requirements

This position requires regular business travel by automobile or airplane, including occasional overnight travel, up to 40%.

Preferred Skills

• Supplier development and manufacturing process improvement

• Non-metallic component manufacturing

• Injection molding and tooling

• APQP/PPAP

• PFMEA and Control Plans

• Lean Six Sigma

• GD&T and SPC

• Root Cause Analysis

• Supplier audits and corrective actions

• New product launch and tooling transfer experience