Supplier Development Engineer 3

Supplier Development Engineer 3 - (110049-1)
Chillicothe, IL 
24 months

Job Description 
JOB PURPOSE: Provide Iron Casting and Machining technical expertise in leading new part development, maintaining current part quality, resolving part defects, and assessing capacity at Client's supply base. Implement a well-documented continuous quality improvement process and strict process controls. Ensure that a supplier can meet corporate and business unit requirements for SQEP certification levels and customer requirements for quality, cost, and delivery of purchased material. This will be used for the evaluation and development of new and existing suppliers worldwide, to maximizing Quality, Cost, Logistics, Delivery, and Management (QCLDM).

JOB DUTIES: The primary responsibility of this position is to serve as the trusted advisor for assigned Iron Casting supply base through the following functional responsibilities: Assessing potential suppliers via on-site Quality, Cost, Logistics, Development, Management (QCLDM) audits, driving implementation of Lean, BIQ, & APQP, continuously reviewing supplier capacity, assuring production readiness through rigorous review of supplier PPAP submission, being recognized as the expert in supplier quality. Collaborate with suppliers to assure proper process control standards are in place and continuously monitor key manufacturing processes for improvement opportunities. Ensure that suppliers have adequate people, training, tooling, fixture, and equipment. Provide technical support during start-up activities and provide ongoing strategic support. The incumbent is responsible for monitoring suppliers’ adherence to PCN (Process Change Notification) on a timely and cost effective basis as well as to develop the supply base to fulfill the total requirements from Client Production System (CPS) implementation.

Provide a technical leadership role as QCLDM champion for suppliers and assure technical development to adequately meet qualified supply network strategies. Support Category Strategies, supplier development & performance management and provide technical leadership in new supplier selection. Evaluate and develop new supplier’s technological capability to meet requirements for Client Inc.

The SDE is responsible for the supplier’s processes from design concept to the end of product life (cradle to grave). Ensures that APQP activities related to process control are being performed by the supplier. Manages supplier’s project plans and activities to ensure product meets Client expectations. Reviews APQP documentation (e.g., Process FMEA {failure mode & effects analysis}, Process Control Plans, Gage R&R {repeatability & reproducibility}). Participates in process FMEA for suppliers’ manufacturing processes. Audits process control implementation and effectiveness. Validates process capability. Ensures PPAP completion and approval prior to delivery of new parts.

Responsible for the review, approval and validation of 8D permanent corrective action plans. Provide resolution and ensure implementation of robust solutions for quality problems associated with the purchased materials, logistics, and engineering issues. Performs quality management system audits and Supplier Evaluation Surveys (SES), including assessments of potential new suppliers. Supports SPQ projects. Participates in the development of Supplier quality metrics. Participates in Supplier Performance Management Reviews (SPM).

The SDE supports MQ11005 certification. Supports Client 6 Sigma initiatives with suppliers. Works with suppliers to reduce waste and improve supplier process capability and efficiency.

Develop and maintain thorough knowledge of technological developments and trends for guidance of Iron castings and machining in advancements of design, quality, and manufacturing. Must have a thorough working knowledge of quality initiatives to ensure that Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) is completed and approved before new parts are delivered. This includes leadership in Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) activity.

Supports and participates in 6 Sigma initiatives with facilities, category teams, and suppliers. The incumbent will collaborate with Buyers to improve supplier cost, quality, and throughput.

Participate in the development of Supplier metrics and the monthly gathering and distribution of measurements. Resolve problems between supplier and plants, suppliers and engineering personnel, and between facilities.

Coordinate with engineering personnel on matters regarding Concurrent Product and Process Development (CPPD), New Product Introduction (NPI), Continuous Process Improvement (CPI) teams; prove design to production, engineering changes, deviations, supplier designs, specification approvals, meeting cost reduction goals, and participates in the Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) process with suppliers manufacturing processes.

The position manages the completion of its own work assignments and coordinates work with others. Maintain the highest ethical and professional standards within this diverse global organization.

BACKGROUND/EXPERIENCE:
• The position requires a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience, preferably in engineering. In addition, three to five years of job-related experience are required. Quality Engineering certification is highly desirable.
• The position requires an engineering or manufacturing background with a strong knowledge of casting and machining process.
• Knowledge of shop operations and maintenance procedures is required.
• Good human relation/communication skills as well as possess the potential for leadership is required to develop a cooperative working relationships with others both inside and outside of Client.
• Knowledge of the tools and techniques of 6 Sigma methodology is highly desired and will likely be attained through prior completion of Green Belt training and/or other 6 Sigma experience.
• Solid ability to use and demonstrate statistical and problem-solving tools is required. American Supply Quality (ASQ) quality certification is desired.

The ideal candidate would be a Supplier Development Engineer with strong casting and machining development experience, frequent supplier engagement, and hands-on manufacturing process knowledge. They would be able to demonstrate the ability to work directly with suppliers to develop parts and improve manufacturing performance.

Position’s Contributions to Work Group: 
What You Will Do:
- Ensuring the quality of supplies by conducting tests and assessments on incoming supplies to identify any quality issues; Developing supplier inspection, testing, and evaluation mechanism. 
- Generating reports on supplier quality, by monitoring their defect rates and areas that can lead to potential flaws; Guiding suppliers to reduce these defect rates. 
- Researching the potential vendors, assessing their manufacturing environment, practices, and procedures; Conducting supplier quality control audits to ensure compliance with organizational and federal policies and standards. 
- Supporting suppliers in improving their performance through process enhancements, implementing process controls, and developing quality assurance plans.
What You Will Have: 
- Effective Communications Understanding of communication concepts, tools, and techniques to effectively transmit, receive, and interpret information.
- Delivers constructive feedback and listens without defensiveness.
- Communicates clearly in presentations and written reports, avoiding unnecessary jargon.
- Interprets non-verbal cues to enhance understanding.
- Problem Solving Ability to recognize, anticipate, and resolve operational or process issues using appropriate tools and techniques.
- Identifies problems and evaluates resolution options.
- Considers stakeholder perspectives and analyzes risks and benefits.
- Applies fact-finding and diagnostic tools effectively.
- Process Improvement Focus on evaluating product quality and production methods to drive continuous improvement.
- Identifies and addresses process inefficiencies.
- Implements controls and prioritizes high-impact improvements.
- Escalates systemic issues for organizational resolution.
- Quality Orientation Commitment to quality management practices that support organizational goals.
- Uses objective data to drive decisions and eliminate non-value-added activities.
- Documents learnings for continuous improvement.
- Addresses root causes, even beyond immediate team scope.
- Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) Expertise in PPAP elements and submissions to ensure supplier compliance with quality standards.
- Develops and monitors validation procedures and PPAP execution.
- Resolves implementation issues and builds stakeholder trust.
- Reviews documentation and trains others on PPAP levels.
- Manufacturing Standards, Procedures and Policies Knowledge of manufacturing standards and ability to ensure process compliance.
- Participates in implementing and improving procedures.
- Explains rationale and investigates exceptions.
- Supports development of functional manufacturing policies.
- Supplier Management – MFG Ability to manage supplier relationships and ensure quality and performance.
- Monitors supplier performance and resolves discrepancies.
- Develops standards and maintains strategic partnerships.
- Manages reporting and record-keeping requirements.
- Supplier Evaluations and Certification Skills in evaluating and certifying suppliers using defined methods and criteria.
- Assesses supplier reputation and product quality.
- Participates in certification processes and documentation.
- Applies evaluation criteria to support selection decisions.

Reason/motivation for request:
- Addition

Why Client? “Whether it be ground-breaking products, best in class solutions or a lifelong career, you can build what matters to you at Client. With 150 locations in countries around the world, what you create at Client travels and helps people around the world. You can collaborate with the best minds in the industry, complete meaningful work and continuously grow and develop through our various opportunities. Here, you can do the work that matters.”

Why this Role? 
This role offers exposure to leadership, opportunities for learning and development, and the chance to drive strategic improvements in procurement. You'll have the ability to develop your skills in supplier management and development, working closely with cross-functional teams to deliver results. Client's commitment to growth and development ensures you'll have access to resources and support to enhance your expertise and advance your career.

Typical task breakdown: 
Responsible for improving supplier performance by identifying capability gaps and implementing corrective actions to ensure quality, cost, and delivery standards are met. 

Interaction with team: 
- Works independently but also collaborates with team.

Team Structure: 
- 6 people: 1 agency (new), 1 Buyer, 3 SDEs and 1 Solution Owner

Work environment: 
Office environment with visits to supplier manufacturing floor; PPE required

Education & Experience Required: 
- Years of experience: 5 + years of experience.
- Degree requirement: Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering (or Manufacturing engineering) Can accept Masters with 3 years exp; No associate Degree
- Do you accept internships as job experience: No
- Are there past or additional job titles or roles that would provide comparable background to this role: 

Top 3 Skills
- Experience with Iron and Aluminum Casting (and/or Machined parts & process) and familiarity with Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP).
- Exposure to manufacturing environments involving complex engineered components.
- Ability to navigate supplier relationships and quality systems with confidence.

Additional Technical Skills 
- Quality Orientation.
- Expertise in PPAP elements and submissions to ensure supplier compliance with quality standards.
- Knowledge of manufacturing standards and ability to ensure process compliance.
- Skills in evaluating and certifying suppliers using defined methods and criteria.
 
Soft Skills
- Effective Communications.
- Problem Solving (Ability to recognize, anticipate, and resolve operational or process issues using appropriate tools and techniques.)
- Willing to do tactical work (day to day process / projects / presentations)

Travel Requirement: 25-50%; Domestic and Mexico

Ravi Teja

View email address on careers.harveynashusa.com