Senior Engineer - SQA
Job description We are seeking a data-driven and technically proficient Senior Supplier Quality Engineer to lead the quality management, development, and compliance of our global supply base. In this role, you will be the primary gatekeeper for components entering our high-tech manufacturing facility, ensuring that all supplier partners deliver parts that consistently meet or exceed our strict engineering specifications. You will oversee critical validation processes for New Product Introduction (NPI) and production, manage supplier risk, and lead technical root-cause investigations to eliminate component defects before they reach our autonomous assembly lines.
Responsibilities
Supplier NPI & Component Qualification
- Execute the Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) process with suppliers from early design phases through to high-volume manufacturing.
- Review and approve Supplier Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) submissions, including control plans, PFMEAs, gauge R&R, and process capability studies.
- Establish clear quality requirements and validation protocols for custom fabrication/welding process.
Performance Monitoring & Supplier Development
- Develop and track supplier quality metrics using defined key performance indicators.
- Conduct rigorous on-site supplier audits and quality system evaluations (e.g., ISO 9001, IATF 16949) to assess manufacturing capability and identify operational risks.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives with key suppliers to optimize their process capabilities, reduce cycle times, and lower total cost of quality.
Root Cause Analysis & Containment
- Own the Supplier Corrective Action Request (CAPA/SCAR) process, holding suppliers accountable.
- Lead cross-functional containment activities when defective or non-conforming incoming material is identified, preventing assembly line disruptions.
- Partner with internal Engineering, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain teams to resolve complex, multi-variable component failures affecting product integrity.
Mentor and provide technical guidance:
- Receiving inspection technicians on advanced metrology tools, CMM, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
Skills & Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical engineering, Electrical or Electronics Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical discipline is required.
- Minimum of 7–9 years of experience in Supplier Quality Engineering or Supplier Quality Assurance within a high-tech manufacturing environment.
- Expert proficiency in core quality tools: APQP, PPAP, FMEA, SPC, and MSA
- Strong command of advanced problem-solving methodologies (e.g., 8D, Shainin, 5 Whys, Ishikawa diagrams).
- Solid understanding of GD&T principles and the ability to interpret complex engineering drawings and schematics.
- Familiarity with industry compliance standards such as ISO 9001 and IATF 16949.
- Exceptional negotiation and communication skills, with a proven ability to influence supplier behavior, manage conflicts, and present data to executive leadership.
- Willingness to travel (up to 30–40% domestic and international) to perform supplier audits and technical interventions.
- Proficiency in quality management software and data analysis tools (e.g., Minitab, Excel SPC).
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