Supplier Quality Engineer; NPI​/NPD

Position Overview

As a Supplier Quality Engineer on the NPI team, you will lead supplier quality planning and risk mitigation for New Product Introduction (NPI) programs to support on‑time, compliant, and high‑quality product launches. You will own supplier‑related quality strategies across scope, timeline, risk, qualification, and communication, aligning work to product development scorecard deliverables. In this role, you will partner with project management, engineering, sourcing, validation, manufacturing, and supplier quality teams to identify risks, drive mitigation plans, and support supplier readiness throughout the NPI lifecycle.

This is a compelling opportunity to influence product launch outcomes, work across a broad technical and operational network, and drive supplier quality processes at scale.

• Develop and execute supplier risk mitigation and qualification strategies using APQP and related quality tools to meet product development objectives.
• Identify supplier timing, capability, and readiness risks, and drive mitigation plans aligned with overall program milestones.
• Lead supplier quality activities across cross‑functional teams, including project management, engineering, sourcing, validation, manufacturing, and NPI Commodity Supplier Quality Engineers.
• Ensure PPAP compliance no later than product validation builds.
• Communicate supplier quality risks, status, and mitigation plans through project reviews and integrated program team forums.
• Provide supplier quality input to support sourcing decisions and assess supplier suitability for future business awards.
• Partner with project and product engineering to understand technical risks, design changes, and their impact on supplier APQP requirements.
• Support design and component reviews for high‑risk parts, including Key Product Characteristics, GD&T application, and manufacturing and measurement feasibility.
• Collaborate with engineering and NPI Commodity Supplier Quality Engineers to support effective Design for Manufacturability, Design for Assembly, and Design/Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis execution.
• Drive disciplined problem‑solving methods for supplier and project‑related quality issues.
• Capture, document, and share lessons learned and best practices across programs and teams.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives, including lean process development and value‑added engineering or quality projects.

• Technical / Functional Expertise:
  You apply the required technical or professional knowledge to perform your role effectively and stay current within your area of expertise.
• Problem Solving:
  You identify issues, assess root causes, and implement practical solutions that balance speed, quality, and risk.
• Collaboration:
  
  You work effectively with others across functions and levels, contributing to shared goals while respecting different perspectives.

• A bachelor's degree in engineering or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in engineering or quality.
• NPI / NPD project management experience.
• CAPM and/or PMP certification preferred.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.
• Advanced knowledge of quality tools, including APQP, PPAP, SPC, MSA, FMEA, Control Plans, DOE, and Quality Systems.
• Strong problem‑solving, communication, and presentation skills.
• Ability to build effective relationships across cross‑functional teams and a global supply base.
• Ability to work autonomously in an evolving environment.
• Able to travel up to 15%, primarily within North America, with occasional travel to EMEA.

To qualify for this position, former employees must be eligible for rehire, and current employees must be in good standing.

Polaris is proud to offer a market‑leading profit‑sharing plan and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan, along with a discounted employee stock purchases plan. Employees receive a generous matching contribution to 401(k), financial wellness education and consultation to plan for their financial future. In addition to competitive pay, Polaris provides a comprehensive suite of benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance, wellness…