Supplier Quality Engineer- Heavy Equipment Manufacturing

Overview

The Supplier Quality Engineer plays a critical role in ensuring the quality and reliability of products sourced by Lanco’s Industrial Equipment Manufacturing (IEM) operations. This position is responsible for managing supplier performance metrics, driving continuous improvement through corrective action processes, and leading audits to assess supplier capabilities. This role will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams and suppliers to address quality issues, support new product development, and implement technical improvements.

This role requires a strong foundation in engineering principles, problem-solving, and effective communication to promote consistency, compliance, and operational excellence across all IEM locations.

• Supplier Quality Metrics:
  Develop, manage, and report key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor supplier quality performance. Use data-driven analysis to identify trends, evaluate supplier effectiveness, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Corrective Action Management:
  Lead the issuance and resolution of Supplier Corrective Action Reports (SCARs). Conduct root cause analyses, define containment plans, and implement both interim and permanent corrective actions to prevent recurrence of quality issues.
• Root Cause Analysis & Problem Solving:
  Perform in-depth investigations of supplier-related quality problems using tools such as 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagrams, and Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA). Validate solutions through follow-up audits and performance tracking.
• Supplier Audits &
  
  Qualification:
  
  Plan and execute supplier audits and evaluations to ensure compliance with Lanco’s sourcing standards and quality system requirements. Assess supplier capabilities in processes such as machining, welding, casting, and assembly.
• Design Collaboration & Specification Review:
  Partner with engineering and suppliers during product design phases to ensure technical specifications are achievable and optimized for manufacturability, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
• Continuous Improvement Projects:
  Independently lead at least one annual supplier quality improvement project using Six Sigma, Lean, or similar methodologies. Present findings and outcomes to cross-functional leadership.
• Cross-Site Quality Support:
  Provide supplier quality engineering support across all IEM sites. Prioritize workload based on urgency, production schedules, and organizational impact.
• Cross-Functional Communication:
  Serve as a liaison between suppliers and internal departments (Engineering, Purchasing, Production) to elevate awareness of supplier quality issues, coordinate resources, and align expectations.
• Compliance & Safety:
  Ensure supplier processes align with regulatory requirements and internal company policies, including ISO 9001 standards. Promote environmental responsibility and safe working practices within the supply chain.
• Team Collaboration & Best Practice Sharing:
  Contribute to the broader IEM Quality Team by sharing lessons learned, standardizing processes, and supporting continuous alignment across facilities.

• Self-motivated and analytical, with the ability to work independently while collaborating across teams.
• Experienced in supplier quality management, including audits, corrective actions, and performance tracking using KPIs.
• Skilled in root cause analysis, quality systems (ISO 9001), and interpreting technical drawings with GD&T.
• Knowledgeable in manufacturing processes such as machining, welding, and assembly, with the ability to assess and improve supplier capabilities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and familiar with ERP systems for quality documentation and data analysis.

• Bachelor9s degree in engineering, engineering technology, or a related field
• 3-5 years of applicable work experience
• Understanding of the concept, implementation, and the associated practices of ISO 9001 (auditing experience preferred)
• Six-sigma training/certification preferred

• This is primarily an office classification and employees work in an office with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions…