Supplier Quality Engineer

A well-established automotive manufacturer is seeking a Supplier Development Quality Engineer to support supplier performance, new product launches, and continuous improvement across multiple manufacturing locations.

This position will collaborate with quality, purchasing, engineering, operations, and external suppliers. The primary focus will be developing supplier processes, preventing quality issues, and leading APQP activities from initial sourcing through full production.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead supplier APQP activities for new product launches and engineering changes
• Manage PPAP submissions, safe-launch activities, and run-at-rate processes
• Conduct supplier process, product, and quality-system audits
• Partner with suppliers to improve quality, delivery, capacity, cycle time, OEE, and overall performance
• Lead root-cause analysis and corrective-action efforts for supplier-related issues
• Develop project timelines and ensure suppliers meet launch milestones
• Assist with identifying, evaluating, and developing new suppliers
• Review supplier manufacturing processes and identify improvement opportunities
• Monitor supplier performance using KPIs, audit results, and quality data
• Present supplier performance metrics and lead regular supplier reviews
• Coordinate third-party containment activities when required
• Manage escalated supplier issues to prevent production interruptions
• Collaborate with quality, engineering, purchasing, and operations teams
• Maintain documentation in accordance with applicable automotive quality and environmental standards

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, or a related engineering discipline—or equivalent professional experience
• At least five years of automotive manufacturing experience
• At least three years of automotive process or product auditing experience
• Strong knowledge of APQP, PPAP, DFMEA, PFMEA, SPC, root-cause analysis, and corrective actions
• Strong analytical, communication, and presentation skills
• Ability to work effectively with suppliers, plant teams, and senior leadership
• Valid passport and ability to travel domestically and internationally

Preferred Experience

• Experience with plastic injection molding, paint, or Class-A cosmetic components
• Certified Quality Engineer certification
• Internal or Lead Auditor certification
• Familiarity with major automotive OEM quality requirements
• Experience with Gauge R&R, capacity analysis, OEE, and supplier development

This is an excellent opportunity for an automotive quality professional who enjoys working directly with suppliers, solving manufacturing challenges, and supporting successful product launches.