Sr. Supplier Quality Engineer

The Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) is responsible for ensuring that suppliers meet quality standards and deliver materials and components that conform to specifications. This role works closely with suppliers, procurement, and internal teams to drive quality improvements, resolve issues, and ensure consistent supply of high-quality materials.

Key Responsibilities

Supplier Quality Management

Evaluate and qualify new suppliers to ensure compliance with quality standards and requirements

Conduct supplier audits (process, system, and compliance) and drive corrective actions

Monitor supplier performance metrics (e.g., defect rates, delivery performance, responsiveness)

Develop and maintain supplier quality scorecards

Quality Assurance & Control

Review and approve supplier documentation (PPAP, FAI, control plans, inspection reports)

Ensure incoming materials meet specifications and quality requirements

Support incoming inspection processes and supplier-related quality issues

Issue Resolution & Continuous Improvement

Lead root cause analysis (e.g., 8D, 5 Whys) for supplier quality issues

Drive corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) with suppliers

Partner with suppliers to implement process improvements and reduce defects

Support containment and resolution of non-conforming materials

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Work closely with Procurement, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Quality teams

Support new product introduction (NPI) by ensuring supplier readiness and quality compliance

Provide input into supplier selection and sourcing decisions

Compliance & Standards

Ensure suppliers comply with industry standards (e.g., ISO 9001, ISO 13485, IATF 16949)

Support audits, regulatory requirements, and customer quality expectations

Maintain proper documentation and traceability for all quality-related activities

Qualifications

Required:

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality, or related field

3–6+ years of experience in supplier quality, manufacturing quality, or engineering

Strong knowledge of quality tools and methodologies (e.g., SPC, FMEA, CAPA)

Experience working with suppliers in a manufacturing environment

Preferred:

ASQ certification (e.g., CQE, CQA)

Experience with PPAP, APQP, and FAI processes

Knowledge of industry standards (ISO, IATF, etc.)

Experience in relevant industry (e.g., semiconductor, automotive, electronics, or medical devices)

Skills & Competencies

Strong problem-solving and root cause analysis skills

Excellent communication and supplier engagement abilities

Analytical mindset with attention to detail

Project management and organizational skills

Ability to influence and drive change with external partners

Knowledge of manufacturing processes and quality systems

Salary Range: $106,000 - $145,860