Supplier Quality Engineer; SQE - Photonics & Optical Packaging

Supplier Quality Engineer

The SQE is responsible for managing and improving supplier quality performance to ensure purchased materials, components, and services meet company, customer, and regulatory requirements. This role partners closely with suppliers and internal stakeholders to drive continuous improvement, reduce risk, and support business objectives. The SQE will report to the Director of Quality in our Salem, NH location with up to 50% travel to support supplier site visits or other business needs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop, implement, and maintain supplier quality requirements and performance metrics
• Qualify, audit, and approve new and existing suppliers (on-site and remote audits)
• Lead supplier corrective action requests (SCARs) using structured problem-solving methodologies (8D, DMAIC, pFMEA)
• Review and approve supplier manufacturing processes, PPAPs, FAI, control plans, and inspection methods
• Collaborate with purchasing, planning, engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams to address supplier-related issues
• Analyze supplier quality data (PPM, defects, trends) and drive continuous improvement initiatives
• Support risk management activities, including supplier risk assessments and contingency planning
• Ensure compliance with applicable standards and regulations (ISO 9001/ AS9100, and / or other industry specific governance as applicable)
• Participate in supplier development and Cost-of-Poor-Quality reduction efforts
• Support customer and regulatory audits related to supplier quality

Required Qualifications:

• Experience working within an ISO
  9001 / AS9100 compliant QMS
• 3–7 years of experience in supply chain development or supplier quality engineering roles
• Strong knowledge of quality tools and methodologies (FMEA, SPC, MSA, Root Cause Analysis)
• Experience with supplier audits and corrective action management
• Competent in reading and interpreting engineering drawings and specifications
• Demonstratable ability to verify / validate attributes, as needed
• Strong communication, negotiation, and cross-functional collaboration skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and quality management systems

Preferred Qualifications:

• Professional certifications such as ASQ CQE, CQA, or equivalent
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma concepts

Competencies:

• Team-orientated communication and collaboration
• Analytical and data-driven decision-making
• Strong problem-solving and leadership skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently
• Customer-focused mindset with attention to detail

Salem, NH Onsite Full Time