Supplier Quality Engineering Leader​/Manager

About Us

Det-Tronics is a $200M global technology leader in industrial life safety solutions, specializing in high-end flame and gas detection and automation control systems. As part of Spectrum Safety Solutions with 1,700 employees across 20+ countries we serve mission-critical environments in oil & gas, clean energy, marine, and infrastructure. Backed by Sentinel Capital Partners, we’re driving innovation and growth across our portfolio.

Det-Tronics is seeking an experienced, process-driven Supplier Quality Engineering (SQE) Leader to own and lead the supplier quality management system and SQE team, ensuring robust supplier performance across a global, safety-critical supply base. This role partners closely with Supply Chain, Engineering, and Operations to qualify, develop, and continuously improve suppliers, support new product introductions, and drive measurable reductions in supplier-related risk and Cost of Poor Quality.

The SQE Leader acts as a visible quality champion, shifting the organization from reactive issue management to a proactive, prevention-focused quality culture.

• Lead supplier quality management system and Supplier Quality Engineering team, including supplier issue monitoring, triage, and resolution processes.
• Collaborate with the Supply Chain team to develop and manage a robust supply base.
• Lead regularly scheduled Supplier Quality meetings, supplier issue resolution, and drive continuous improvement.
• Partner with Supply Chain for supplier sourcing, qualification, selection, and development.
• Work with Design Engineering, Supply Chain, and Operations on all stages of New Product Development, ensuring materials readiness at product launch.
• Lead and oversee new supplier and new part qualification processes, including PPAP, FAI, incoming inspection requirements, and verification of Cpk data.
• Develop and maintain Supplier Scorecard, track KPIs, and work with suppliers on action plans to improve performance.
• Lead technical reviews of new and existing components with Supplier and Engineering.
• Audit and assess suppliers’ processes on a regular basis, which may require travel (approximately 20-25%).
• Act as a quality leader in the organization.
• Participate as a member of the Material Review Board (MRB).
• Support outside certification audits (e.g., ISO 9001:2015).
• Advocate and promote a process-focused approach for all functions.
• Enable a culture change from reactive to proactive quality.
• Help drive reductions in Det-Tronics Cost of Poor Quality.
• Hold self-accountable to achieving goals and standards.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing/Industrial Engineering, or related technical field.
• 5+ years of experience in manufacturing industries as a senior-level Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) with preferably leading a team.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Leadership and people management experience in a manufacturing or quality environment.
• Strong knowledge of statistical analysis (capability analysis, MSA) and GD&T.
• Experience with nonconforming material control (MRB), SCAR, and CAPA.
• Working knowledge of APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans, and DFM reviews.
• Experience managing supplier quality KPIs, including DPPM and Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ).
• Familiarity with AIAG standards and process audits.
• Proficiency in Excel, Power BI, and Minitab.
• Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt preferred.
• Experience partnering with Purchasing/Sourcing and working within MRP systems (JD Edwards preferred).
• Strong project leadership, communication, organization, and time-management skills.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams, meet deadlines under pressure, and drive continuous improvement.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety, quality, and compliance.

• Work with a globally respected brand in life safety.
• Influence strategic decisions at the executive level.
• Drive innovation and transformation in a high-growth environment.
• Enjoy development opportunities within a dynamic, private equity-backed company.

At Det-Tronics, we believe in taking care of our people. Our comprehensive benefits package includes:

• Health & Wellness:
  Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans with company contributions
• Financial Security: 401(k) retirement plan with company match, life and disability insurance
• Time Off:
  Generous paid time off (PTO), holidays, and flexible scheduling options
• Professional Growth:
  Career development programs, training opportunities, and tuition reimbursement
• Employee Support:
  Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness resources, and global mobility support
• Ownership Culture:
  Participation in our Ownership Program, empowering employees to share in our success