purpose of position
The Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) is responsible for ensuring the quality, reliability, and performance of purchased materials and components throughout the supply chain. The SQE partners with suppliers, Purchasing, Engineering, Production, and customers to support supplier development, new product launches, quality improvement activities, and supplier performance management.
Essential duties & Responsibilities
Supplier Quality Management
Develop and maintain supplier quality processes in compliance with IATF 16949, ISO 9001, customer requirements, and company standards.
Evaluate, qualify, and monitor supplier performance using audits, assessments, scorecards, and performance metrics.
Establish and maintain supplier quality expectations and requirements.
Drive supplier quality improvement initiatives to achieve zero-defect performance.
New Product Development and Launch Support
Lead supplier APQP activities and review PPAP submissions.
Support supplier sourcing, qualification, validation, and launch readiness activities.
Participate in DFMEA and PFMEA reviews to identify and mitigate risks.
Support customer launches and supplier readiness reviews.
Audits and Problem Resolution
Conduct supplier process audits and quality system audits.
Lead root cause investigations and corrective action activities using structured problem-solving methodologies.
Manage supplier nonconformance issues and containment activities.
Ensure timely implementation and verification of corrective and preventive actions.
Continuous Improvement
Utilize APQP, PPAP, FMEA, SPC, MSA, Lean Manufacturing, and Six Sigma methodologies.
Analyze supplier performance data, process capability, warranty data, and quality trends.
Work directly with suppliers to improve capability, reduce variation, and eliminate defects.
Support risk reduction and supplier development initiatives.
Technical Leadership and Support
Serve as the subject matter expert for supplier quality requirements.
Support Incoming Quality Inspectors and cross-functional teams.
Collaborate with Purchasing, Engineering, Production, Logistics, and customers to resolve supplier-related concerns.
Support strategic supplier development and business objectives.
Job Requirements
Education and Experience
Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Quality Management, or related technical field preferred.
Three to five (3-5) years of experience in manufacturing, supplier quality, supplier development, or quality engineering.
Experience with supplier performance systems, quality systems, and engineering documentation.
Automotive manufacturing experience preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Strong knowledge of IATF 16949 and ISO 9001 requirements.
Experience with APQP, PPAP, FMEA, GD&T, SPC, and MSA.
Strong problem-solving and root cause analysis skills.
Understanding of manufacturing processes, assembly operations, and process controls.
Strong communication and supplier relationship management skills.
Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and quality management systems.
Physical Demands
Combination of office and manufacturing environments.
Ability to conduct supplier audits and production evaluations.
Domestic and international travel may be required.
Ability to work in supplier manufacturing facilities and customer locations.
Supervision
Received From:
Quality Manager
Given To:
Incoming Quality Inspectors
Temporary sorting and containment personnel as assigned
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Requirements
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