Job Description
Job Description
JOB SUMMARY:
The Supplier Quality Engineer is responsible for managing supplier relationships, driving root cause problem solving, overseeing incoming part quality, and ensuring alignment with product requirements and company quality standards. This role will work closely with the supply chain, engineering, and production teams to ensure the quality of materials and components used in manufacturing meet all required specifications.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Responsible for evaluating and managing the performance of the supply base, driving continuous improvement in supplier capability, quality, and delivery.
- Lead structured root cause analysis (5-Whys, Fishbone, 8D) and implement permanent corrective actions to resolve supplier-related quality issues.
- Oversee and maintain incoming inspection processes and metrology systems to ensure accurate evaluation of critical components and materials.
- Initiate and manage supplier audits, quality agreements, and quality performance metrics (KPIs) to assess risk and enforce compliance with company standards.
- Lead problem-solving efforts related to non-conforming material from suppliers and collaborate cross-functionally to prevent recurrence.
- Maintain and optimize measurement systems (CMMs, micrometers, calipers, optical comparators, etc.), and train others on proper inspection techniques.
- Support supplier development through training, coaching, and on-site visits when needed.
- Review and approve supplier PPAPs (Production Part Approval Process), First Article Inspections, and other advanced quality planning documentation.
- Ensure the implementation and sustainment of quality systems in alignment with ISO/IATF requirements.
- Participate in the planning, qualification, and implementation of new suppliers and materials.
- Drive the continuous improvement of supplier processes using Lean Six Sigma principles.
- Prepare and deliver performance reports, trend analyses, and risk mitigation strategies to leadership.
- Lead material disposition and MRB (Material Review Board) processes when supplier issues arise.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Strong metrology background and experience working with precision measurement tools and systems.
- Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) or Six Sigma Green/Black Belt certification preferred.
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills. Detail-oriented with strong follow-through.
- Knowledge of APQP, PPAP, FMEA, MSA, and SPC.
- Experience with ISO 9001 or IATF 16949 quality systems.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to interface effectively with suppliers, internal teams, and leadership.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and quality systems software (e.g., Minitab, SAP, or similar ERP/QMS platforms).
Education and/or Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Quality Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related technical field required.
- 5+ years of experience in quality engineering with a focus on supplier management in a manufacturing environment.
- Managerial experience or demonstrated ability to lead technical projects and cross-functional teams.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Physical demands: While performing the duties of this job, the associate may occasionally be required to stand, sit, use hands to handle or feel, reach with hands and arms, climb stairs, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The associate must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
Work Environment: The role requires exposure to both office and manufacturing environments. The associate may work in supplier facilities during audits or problem resolution. PPE may be required in certain environments.
EMPLOYMENT AT WILL
This job description is intended as an outline of the duties of the position at VAC Magnetics LLC and is subject to change by VAC from time to time. It is NOT a contract of employment. Employment at VAC is voluntarily entered into and is subject to termination by you or VAC AT WILL, with or without cause at any time either party believes such action to be appropriate.