Supplier Quality Engineer

Job Description:
We are seeking an experienced Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) for a heavy engineering manufacturing environment in Winston-Salem. The role focuses on supplier quality assurance, development, and new product introduction (NPI) activities, ensuring compliance with quality standards across casting, forging, machining, and sheet metal components. This is a 100% onsite role supporting supplier development, production ramp-up, and continuous quality improvement initiatives.
Responsibilities:

• Conduct supplier evaluations and audits (PCPA) to ensure compliance with quality requirements.
• Drive APQP implementation and monitor adherence to quality standards across supplier processes.
• Perform risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies for supplier-related quality issues.
• Participate in design and engineering reviews with internal and supplier teams.
• Manage tooling lifecycle including kickoff, development tracking, and readiness reviews.
• Oversee fixtures, gauges, and tooling readiness for production launch.
• Conduct and monitor tool trials (T0, T1, T2, T3) and validate part fitment and functionality.
• Ensure corrective actions are implemented for identified quality issues.
• Support PSW (Part Submission Warrant) approvals and sign-offs.
• Drive ECN / FETE implementation and manage engineering change processes.
• Lead validation activities, safe launch programs, and production readiness reviews.
• Ensure smooth start of production (SOP) and support ramp-up activities.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including design, manufacturing, and supply chain.
• Drive supplier performance improvement initiatives and ensure delivery excellence.
• Travel 30 40% domestically to supplier locations for audits and reviews.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field.
• Proven experience as a Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) in a manufacturing or heavy engineering environment.
• Strong exposure to casting, forging, machining, and sheet metal fabrication processes.
• Hands-on experience with APQP, PPAP, and supplier quality systems.
• Good understanding of AWS welding standards, material specifications, and engineering drawings.
• Experience with GD&T and Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles.
• Prior exposure to supplier audits, tooling development, and production launch activities.
• Strong background in industrial or heavy engineering sectors preferred.