Overview

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.

Responsibilities

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.

Qualifications

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