Supplier Quality Engineer

Supplier Quality Engineer

The Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) is responsible for ensuring that externally sourced materials and components meet company quality standards and customer expectations. This role works closely with suppliers, purchasing, engineering, and plant operations to drive supplier performance, resolve quality issues, and support new product launches.

This is a hands-on, plant-connected role focused on execution, supplier development, and continuous improvement within an aftermarket automotive manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

Supplier Quality Management

• Monitor and improve supplier quality performance (PPM, on-time delivery, defect trends).
• Lead supplier corrective actions using structured problem-solving methods (8D, 5 Whys).
• Conduct supplier audits (process, product, and system) to ensure compliance with company and industry standards.

Incoming Quality & Issue Resolution

• Support incoming inspection activities and disposition of nonconforming materials.
• Lead containment activities for supplier-related quality issues to minimize production impact.
• Collaborate with plant teams to quickly resolve supplier defects and prevent recurrence.

Supplier Development

• Work directly with suppliers to improve manufacturing processes, controls, and quality systems.
• Track and drive continuous improvement initiatives with key suppliers.
• Assist in qualifying new suppliers and evaluating supplier capabilities.

New Product Introduction (APQP / PPAP)

• Support APQP activities with suppliers, including review of PFMEAs, Control Plans, and Process Flows.
• Review and approve supplier PPAP submissions to ensure readiness for production.
• Partner with engineering and sourcing teams during product launches and changes.

Data Analysis & Reporting

• Analyze supplier performance data and identify trends and risk areas.
• Maintain supplier scorecards and provide regular updates to internal stakeholders.
• Support cost of poor quality (COPQ) tracking and reduction initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, Manufacturing, or related field preferred).
• 3–6 years of experience in supplier quality, manufacturing quality, or related role in automotive or high-volume manufacturing.
• Working knowledge of APQP, PPAP, FMEA, SPC, and root cause analysis tools.
• Experience interacting with suppliers and leading corrective actions.
• Familiarity with ERP systems and quality data analysis tools.
• Six Sigma Green Belt or equivalent experience preferred.

Key Competencies

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to work cross-functionally with internal teams and external suppliers.
• Effective communication and influencing skills.
• Detail-oriented with a focus on prevention and continuous improvement.
• Willingness to travel to supplier locations (typically 10–25%).

Performance Indicators

• Supplier PPM and defect reduction.
• Timely closure of supplier corrective actions.
• Supplier on-time delivery and quality performance.
• Successful PPAP approvals and launch readiness.
• Reduction in supplier-related downtime and disruptions.