Supplier Quality Engineer – Powertrain Columbia, South Carolina,

Position: Supplier Quality Engineer – Powertrain Columbia, South Carolina, United States

Here at Scout Motors, we’re carrying forward the heritage of one of the most iconic American vehicles in history – a vehicle that dates back to 1960 and has paved the way for future generations of rugged SUVs. Scout is more than just a brand; it’s a legacy steeped in a culture of exploration, caretaking, and hard work.

At Scout Motors, we empower our diverse, inclusive, and entrepreneurial teams to innovate. What makes a Scout employee? A visionary leader who seeks new paths, shares lessons learned, collaborates across the company, and brings unrivaled passion to every challenge.

Join us and be part of shaping the future of transportation. If you’re ready to drive change and make history, apply now!

Role Summary

The Supplier Quality Engineer – Powertrain is responsible for ensuring that all supplier-sourced powertrain components meet Scout’s engineering, manufacturing, and quality requirements. The focus will initially be on the Range Extender Engine (REX) and related subsystems, with expanding responsibility across the broader powertrain domain as Scout’s vehicle portfolio grows.

What you’ll do

• Lead APQP and PPAP activities with suppliers for all powertrain components and subsystems.
• Verify supplier process readiness through audits, run‑at‑rate, and process capability studies.
• Ensure robust control plans, FMEAs, and process documentation are in place prior to SOP.
• Partner with Engineering and Purchasing to ensure supplier selection aligns with Scout’s technical and quality expectations.

Quality Planning & Risk Mitigation

• Support early supplier engagement and design‑for‑manufacturability (DFM) reviews.
• Assess supplier capability and maturity to identify and mitigate technical, process, and capacity risks.
• Drive alignment of supplier quality deliverables with program milestones and Scout’s launch timing.

Issue Resolution & Continuous Improvement

• Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions (8D, 5‑Why, Fishbone) for supplier‑related issues.
• Implement containment and corrective measures to protect manufacturing and maintain build schedules.
• Track and report supplier performance metrics (PPM, on‑time PPAP, audit results) and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

• Serve as the primary interface between suppliers and internal teams (Engineering, Manufacturing, Purchasing, and Program Management).
• Support prototype, pre‑series, and launch builds by ensuring supplier readiness and component quality.
• Provide technical feedback on supplier manufacturing capability and process improvements.

Technical Oversight of Powertrain Components

• Focus on supplier quality for key powertrain systems, including:
  • Range Extender Engine and subsystems (block, head, fuel, oil, exhaust, and cooling)
  • Transmission and torque transfer components
  • Thermal management and fluid systems (pumps, hoses, radiators)
  • Engine and transmission mounting systems
• Apply engineering expertise to ensure compliance with performance, durability, and regulatory requirements.

Launch & Production Support

• Ensure suppliers achieve flawless launch and sustained production quality.
• Conduct supplier process audits (IATF 16949 / VDA 6.3) and confirm effective corrective actions.
• Monitor supplier production performance and support proactive issue prevention during ramp‑up.
• Location:
  
  Scout Motors, Columbia, South Carolina. Daily on‑site attendance and in‑person meetings are required. Travel:
  Domestic and international, approximately 40 %. Valid driver’s license and passport required.

What you’ll bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field required.
• Minimum five years of experience in Supplier Quality, Manufacturing Quality, or Supplier Development within automotive or powertrain industries.
• Strong understanding of internal combustion engine systems, transmissions, cooling, and thermal management.
• Proficiency in APQP, PPAP, IATF 16949, VDA 6.3, and structured problem‑solving methodologies.
• Experience interpreting engineering drawings, GD&T, material specifications, and validation requirements.
• Proven ability to manage suppliers through complex program phases and multiple launch cycles.
• Excellent…