Supplier Quality Engineer Job Hillside area,Illinois USA,Engineering

SCOPE:

The Supplier Quality Engineer is responsible for developing and executing supplier quality strategies that ensure the delivery of high-quality materials, components, and services. This role manages supplier qualification, performance monitoring, and continuous improvement initiatives. The Supplier Quality Engineer collaborates with cross-functional teams to resolve quality issues, supports new product introductions, and drives compliance with regulatory and sustainability requirements.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Develop and implement supplier quality initiatives aligned with business objectives and growth plans.
Identify, evaluate, and qualify suppliers to ensure they meet quality, reliability, and compliance standards.
Lead supplier audits, manage corrective action processes, and monitor supplier performance.
Collaborate with Engineering, Sourcing, and Operations teams to support new product introductions and resolve supplier-related quality issues.
Analyze quality data, conduct root cause analyses, and identify opportunities for defect reduction and value creation.
Maintain accurate supplier quality documentation, including audit reports, scorecards, and compliance records.
Drive supplier development, risk mitigation, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Support sustainability and regulatory compliance efforts within the supply base.
Facilitate cross-functional communication and training on supplier quality policies and best practices.
Promote a culture of accountability, teamwork, and operational excellence.
Work with Sourcing on rating, qualifying, and disqualifying suppliers.
Support the improvement of supplier on-time delivery and supplier reject rate metrics.
Reduce costs by minimizing supplier-caused scrap and rework.
Manage the First Article Inspection (FAI) process for new parts and new suppliers, ensuring all dimensions, material certifications, and "Critical to Quality" (CTQ) characteristics align with engineering drawings.
Serve as a liaison between the Quality and Engineering departments and suppliers.
Advocate on suppliers' behalf when engineering specifications are unreasonable, incomplete, inconsistent, or unclear.
Work with suppliers to identify cost-reduction opportunities.
Partner with suppliers to implement Lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma tools to improve yields and reduce variability in supplied components.
Work closely with Engineering during the Design for Manufacturability (DFM) phase to ensure suppliers can meet proposed tolerances and specifications.

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or a related field required.
5+ years of experience in supplier quality engineering, quality assurance, or supply chain management within a manufacturing environment.
Production/manufacturing experience is required.
Low-volume, high-mix manufacturing experience is preferred.
Experience with ISO 9001 standards is a plus.
Demonstrated success in supplier qualification, audit management, and quality improvement initiatives.
Strong knowledge of quality systems, supplier qualification, and performance tracking methods.
Excellent analytical, communication, and project management skills.
Proficiency with ERP systems, Microsoft Office, and quality analytics tools.
Self-motivated with a high level of follow-through and accountability.
Experience with AS400 or similar ERP systems is a plus.
Familiarity with machining, metal fabrication, and MR