The Supplier Quality Engineer supports supplier quality initiatives that enable the business to achieve its operational and strategic quality objectives. This role partners with suppliers and cross-functional teams to improve manufacturing processes, ensure compliance with quality standards, drive product and process validation, and resolve supplier quality issues. The position also supports supplier performance improvement through Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP), Production Part Approval Process (PPAP), supplier audits, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Key Responsibilities- Support supplier quality initiatives to improve supplier performance, product quality, and customer satisfaction.
- Build and maintain effective relationships with suppliers and cross-functional stakeholders including Purchasing, Manufacturing, Engineering, Sourcing, and Quality teams.
- Manage and review Global PPAP (Levels 1–4), including VPI PPAP submissions, ensuring compliance with customer and organizational requirements.
- Audit PPAP documentation against established guidelines and provide disposition decisions (Approval, Interim Approval, or Rejection).
- Coordinate with suppliers and Supplier Quality Engineers (SQEs) to ensure complete and accurate PPAP documentation is uploaded into CQMS/EQMS.
- Collaborate with suppliers, sourcing managers, and change managers to resolve rejected or interim PPAP submissions and ensure timely closure.
- Monitor interim PPAP approvals and drive timely completion before expiration.
- Maintain PPAP turnaround time (TAT) targets and ensure timely disposition of submissions.
- Participate in supplier manufacturing process evaluations using APQP methodologies and AIAG core quality tools.
- Conduct or support supplier process audits and contribute to continuous improvement of supplier manufacturing processes.
- Support investigation of supplier quality issues by performing root cause analysis, implementing corrective actions, and verifying their effectiveness.
- Apply Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies to reduce defects and improve supplier capability.
- Participate in supplier quality planning, quality performance reviews, and supplier development initiatives.
- Ensure supplier compliance with quality management systems, engineering specifications, and regulatory requirements.
- Support product reliability and manufacturing process validation activities throughout product development and production.
Skills and Competencies
- Supplier Quality Management
- Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP)
- Production Part Approval Process (PPAP)
- AIAG Core Tools (DFMEA, PFMEA, Control Plan, SPC, MSA, PPAP)
- Quality Management Systems (ISO 9001:2015, IATF 16949)
- Supplier Auditing and Process Assessment
- Root Cause Analysis and Corrective Action (8D, 5 Why, Fishbone)
- Manufacturing Process Design and Validation
- Statistical Analysis and Process Capability
- Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T)
- Engineering Drawing Interpretation
- Supplier Performance Improvement
- Product Reliability and Process Validation
- Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies
- Problem-solving and analytical skills
- Strong communication, collaboration, and stakeholder management
- Customer-focused approach with the ability to influence cross-functional teams
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet turnaround time targets
Experience
- Experience in supplier quality, manufacturing quality, quality engineering, or a related engineering function is preferred.
- Experience with Global PPAP management, review, and approval processes.
- Experience working with CQMS, EQMS, or similar quality management systems.
- Exposure to supplier audits, APQP activities, and supplier quality improvement initiatives.
- Knowledge of manufacturing processes, engineering standards, and quality systems.
- Experience collaborating with suppliers, sourcing teams, engineering, and manufacturing organizations.
- Familiarity with change management processes and supplier product validation is preferred.
- Entry-level candidates with relevant engineering education and internship/project experience in supplier quality or manufacturing quality are encouraged to apply.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related technical or scientific discipline.
- Export control or sanctions compliance licensing may be required depending on business needs.