Supplier Development Engineer II - Composites

supplier development engineer ii - composites

hollywood, md clearance unspecified polygraph unspecified career level not specified $60,000 - $95,000

job title: supplier development engineer ii - composites department: supply chain management reports to: chief production officer classification: exempt clearance: secret location: hollywood, md job summary: the supplier development engineer ii - composites is an individual contributor responsible for improving performance and capability across the composite supply base supporting aerospace/uav production. This role leads supplier assessments, drives resolution of critical issues, and ensures suppliers can meet quality, delivery, and scalability requirements for composite structures and components.

Duties/responsibilities:

• lead development and performance improvement of key composite suppliers supporting uav/aerospace production.
• assess supplier capability in composite manufacturing processes (layup, curing, bonding, machining, finishing) and capacity to meet production demand.
• drive resolution of high-impact quality and delivery issues, including execution of recovery plans.
• lead root cause analysis for composite defects (e.g., porosity, delamination, cure variation) and ensure effective corrective actions.
• conduct supplier audits and process reviews, including special processes and quality system compliance (e.g., nadcap where applicable).
• participates in negotiating terms and pricing with suppliers for purchase orders to ensure cost-effective and timely procurement.
• provide hands-on technical guidance to improve yield, throughput, and process control.
• support supplier readiness for new product introduction (npi), including qualification, fai, and ramp to rate.
• partner with engineering, quality, and supply chain to manage risk, qualify new sources, and support make/buy decisions.
• monitor supplier performance (quality, delivery, cost) and implement focused improvement actions.
• serve as escalation point for critical supplier issues impacting production or program milestones.
• mentor junior team members and support cross-functional execution.
• prepare concise updates on supplier risk, performance, and recovery status for leadership.
• perform other duties as are necessary and/or required.

basic requirements:

• bachelor's degree in engineering, supply chain, manufacturing, industrial technology, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience may be considered.
• 2+ years of progressive experience in supplier development, supplier quality, manufacturing engineering, operations, or supply chain in aerospace, defense, or other highly regulated manufacturing environments.
• ability to obtain and maintain security clearance (u.s. Citizenship required)
• demonstrated experience leading supplier recovery, supplier improvement, and cross-functional resolution of complex supply chain issues.
• strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, quality systems, process validation, and supplier risk management.
• ability to interpret complex technical requirements, specifications, and production constraints.
• experience using data and kpis to drive supplier accountability and performance improvement.
• strong project leadership, influencing, and stakeholder management skills.
• working knowledge of continuous improvement and root cause methodologies.
• proficiency with microsoft office and erp/mrp systems.
• ability to travel regularly to supplier locations, as needed.

preferred qualifications:

• proficiency with microsoft office; erp/mrp experience preferred.

physical requirements:

• must be able to lift up to 50 pounds at times, more with assistance.
• work environment consists of various office and manufacturing settings with may have exposure to noise, varying temperatures, smells, and chemicals.
• ability to traverse manufacturing facility.

the salary range for this position is $60,000 to $95,000. Actual compensation will be based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to the candidate's relevant experience, education and training, job-related knowledge and skills, the scope and level of responsibility of the position, internal equity, and market/business considerations. The listed range is a general guideline and may vary based on the selected candidate's qualifications and work location, where applicable.