Supplier Quality Engineer

Supplier Quality SME

The Supplier Quality SME provides technical and process leadership to enhance supplier quality systems and standardize best practices across the supply base. Focuses on identifying gaps in supplier quality processes and driving continuous improvement initiatives. Works to improve supplier performance, reduce Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ), and ensure consistent compliance and efficiency. Ensures supplier quality systems are aligned with manufacturing and business objectives.

Roles & Responsibilities:

Assess and identify gaps in supplier quality processes including PPAP, 8D corrective actions, incoming quality, and supplier performance metrics. Define and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for supplier quality engineers and suppliers. Improve PPAP quality and First Pass Yield (FPY) through standardized review criteria and readiness expectations. Strengthen corrective action effectiveness through proper root cause analysis and validation of permanent solutions. Develop and execute COPQ reduction strategies targeting high-impact suppliers and recurring issues. Conduct supplier assessments, audits, and capability evaluations to improve compliance and maturity. Collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, Procurement, and Quality teams to resolve systemic supplier issues. Lead supplier development initiatives including improvement plans and follow-up actions. Drive defect prevention, incoming quality stabilization, and long-term quality improvement initiatives. Develop supplier scorecards covering PPM, SCAR aging, COPQ, and audit results and support supplier performance reviews. Support HVAC-related supplier quality activities including validation, leak testing, pressure integrity, and thermal performance compliance.

Education & Experience:

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial, Quality, or related field). Strong experience in supplier quality management including PPAP, APQP, 8D, and supplier performance metrics. Experience in process assessment, gap analysis, and standardization of quality systems. Strong understanding of quality tools such as PFMEA, Control Plans, SPC, MSA, and COPQ. Preferred certifications: CQE, CQA, or equivalent. Experience with ISO 9001 or IATF 16949 certified environments. Exposure to complex manufacturing or electro-mechanical supply chains. Strong data analysis and reporting skills for KPI and supplier performance tracking. Added advantage: Experience with HVAC systems, validation methods, and industry standards (e.g., ASHRAE).