Supplier Quality Engineer

Under the general direction of the Quality Leader, this position is accountable for the coordination of obtaining design/process compatibility on existing parts and products. Functioning as a key member of multiple functional teams determining the capability of existing and new suppliers.

• Initiates and leads technical reviews of supplied parts and the supplier’s quality management system (QMS).
• Determines and proposes statistical process controls for appropriate suppliers' processes.
• SQE is responsible for tracking resolutions of supplier quality/productivity top issues.
• Determination of inspection/test equipment required to assess the conformance to specifications.
• Supervises quality process control and audit personnel as assigned.
• Maintains quality documentation at test and audit to engineering specifications.
• The Supplier Quality Engineer supports the effort of the new design introduction.
• Member of the process review team, helping Product Engineering introduce purchased and manufactured components.
• Provide reject and warranty data to the management team for analysis.

• Knowledge/Experience:
• 2-4 years of experience in quality assurance and/or control preferred
• Background in QMS management in a certified ISO or IATF organization.
• Functional knowledge of statistical concepts as applied to the field of Quality Assurance.
• Experience in a project team environment is beneficial.
• Experience in the quality management methods defined by the Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG).
• Supplier Audits & Assessment: Conduct on-site or virtual audits to evaluate supplier quality systems and process capability.
• Part Qualification: Manage the PPAP (Production Part Approval Process) or similar qualification processes for new parts
• Root Cause Analysis: Investigate non-conforming materials and drive corrective/preventive actions (SCARs/CAPA).
• Performance Monitoring: Track supplier KPIs (e.g., defects per million, on-time delivery) and conduct performance reviews.
• Collaboration: Work with design and manufacturing engineering to define component specifications and tolerances.
• Continuous Improvement: Drive lean manufacturing and quality improvement initiatives at supplier locations.

Skills and Abilities:

• Demonstrated strong computer skills in Microsoft applications.
• Problem-solving ability, effective communication skills and diplomacy required.
• Blueprint reading and ability to interpret standards such as ASTM.
• Experience evaluating supplier’s quality systems and ability to facilitate process improvements.
• Knowledge of SAP is beneficial

Education:

• BS degree in Engineering, Quality or Manufacturing discipline desired.
• AS degree required with equivalent experience or ASQ Quality Engineering Certification.

Physical Requirements:

• Position involves sitting for long periods, standing, manual dexterity, stooping, bending, and minimal lifting.
• Some travel, including to international suppliers may be required. A valid passport, or the ability to get one, is required