Supplier Quality Engineer - Equipment & Machines

Position

Supplier Quality Engineer – Equipment & Machines (NX-2873) – Las Vegas, Nevada

Nextpower is seeking a Supplier Quality Engineer to support heavy machinery and electrical balance‑of‑systems product lines, focusing on foundation & solar PV components. The role ensures supplier quality performance, performs audits, implements quality systems, drives PPAP, validates tools, leads data‑driven improvement, manages metrics, root cause analysis, and scorecards.

• Audit new suppliers and recommend business decisions based on risk.
• Document audit results in professional reports for stakeholders.
• Provide guidance to suppliers to implement robust quality processes.
• Support supplier quality for electrical balance of systems (solar photovoltaic products).
• Input quality requirements into PPAPs, critical dimensions, inspection check sheets, measuring system plans, FAI process instructions, MSA, pre‑production and production ramp‑up plans, inline checks and self‑certifications.
• Specify and validate inspection tools and gauges for suppliers.
• Develop technical process improvement strategies at supplier facilities, backed by SPC data (Cp, CpK, P Chart, X‑bar, etc.) to ensure compliance.
• Monitor KPIs such as early life failures, DPPMs, and RMA rate; own supplier performance results.
• Determine inspection frequency based on DPPM outcomes to ensure compliance.
• Lead root cause and corrective action activities for critical supplier issues; manage timely resolution and preventive actions.
• Mentor suppliers to improve quality over time.
• Implement and manage supplier scorecards to measure ongoing performance.
• Maintain relationships between NX and suppliers regarding quality performance, trends, and corrective actions.

• Bachelor’s degree in quality or manufacturing engineering (or related field).
• 5+ years experience in quality engineering in a related industry.
• Strong hands‑on experience with welded structural assemblies (frames, structural steel, load‑bearing weldments).
• Experience auditing manufacturing facilities or processes per ISO 9001 QMS.
• Knowledge of GD&T tolerancing, AQL inspection, and zero‑defects philosophy.
• Proficiency with Excel, SPC tools (Minitab, etc.).
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent judgment, interpersonal, written, oral, and presentation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, work under pressure, and meet tight deadlines.
• Self‑starter, proactive, and able to work independently.
• Experience in supplier quality best practices and managing supplier scorecards.
• Strong professionalism, judgment, and work ethic. Ability to adapt to multicultural environments.

Nextpower is an equal‑opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.