Supplier Quality Engineer - Composites

Supplier Quality Engineer (Composites)

Saronic Technologies is a leader in revolutionizing autonomy at sea, dedicated to developing state-of-the-art solutions that enhance maritime operations through autonomous and intelligent platforms.

Job Overview

The Supplier Quality Engineer (Composites) is responsible for ensuring that composite hulls, structures, and components produced by suppliers meet Saronic's quality, performance, and durability requirements. This role focuses on open-mold and closed-mold (e.g., hand layup, spray-up, vacuum infusion) composite manufacturing processes used in marine environments. The engineer will drive supplier quality performance, conduct audits and inspections, resolve nonconformance's, and implement data-driven improvements across the supply chain. Collaboration with internal teams, including design, engineering, quality, manufacturing, and supply chain, is essential to maintain high standards of workmanship and material integrity for mission-critical maritime systems.

Responsibilities

Problem Solving & Root Cause Analysis and Corrective Actions

• Investigate supplier nonconformance's such as voids, delamination, resin-rich/lean areas, cosmetic defects, or dimensional deviations. Lead structured problem-solving using methods such as 8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagrams, and FMEA to identify root causes and drive effective corrective and preventive actions. Verify corrective action effectiveness through follow-up inspections and process audits.

Technical Quality Control

• Validate and monitor supplier processes for composite part fabrication, including:

• Mold preparation, release application, and surface integrity

• Gelcoat and laminate layup consistency (resin-to-fiber ratios, air entrapment control)

• Curing, demolding, trimming, and finishing

• Bonding and secondary assembly operations

• Dimensional and visual inspections (surface finish, thickness, weight verification) Implement and monitor key process metrics using statistical process control (SPC) or capability studies. Ensure supplier adherence to Saronic workmanship and composite quality standards.

Supplier Quality Assurance (Audits & Assessments)

• Plan and conduct supplier quality audits and process assessments for composite manufacturing operations. Evaluate compliance with relevant quality management standards (e.g., ISO 9001, AS9100) and marine composite best practices. Track supplier performance via scorecards (defect rates, on-time delivery, rework trends) and partner with suppliers to close quality gaps. Drive continuous improvement initiatives and verify corrective action completion.

Quality Documentation and Reporting

• Maintain detailed records of supplier audits, inspection results, corrective actions, and quality trends. Develop and deliver regular reports on supplier quality metrics and improvement status to management and cross-functional teams.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with engineering, procurement, and production teams to ensure material specifications, design requirements, and supplier capabilities are aligned. Provide technical guidance on composite layup strategies, bonding processes, and finishing methods. Support design for manufacturability (DFM) and quality (DFQ) reviews. Train internal and supplier personnel on composite quality standards, inspection techniques, and defect prevention.

Continuous Improvement Initiatives

• Lead or support Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen projects targeting improved composite process repeatability, reduced scrap, and enhanced material utilization. Collaborate with suppliers to implement standard work, visual controls, and other improved processes.

Risk Management and Compliance

• Identify potential risks in supplier quality or process capability and develop mitigation strategies. Ensure supplier adherence to Saronic's material qualification, traceability, and documentation standards. Support compliance with applicable defense and marine quality requirements.

New Supplier Qualification

• Participate in the evaluation and qualification of new composite suppliers. Review manufacturing readiness, process control, material handling, and quality management systems. Conduct audits and first article inspections to ensure new suppliers meet Saronic's standards for consistency, repeatability, and documentation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Materials Science, Manufacturing, or related field (or equivalent experience).

• 3+ years of experience in supplier quality, composites manufacturing, or marine production.

• Strong understanding of open-mold composite manufacturing methods (hand layup, spray-up, vacuum infusion).

• Familiarity with marine composite materials such as fiberglass, carbon fiber, core materials, resins, and gelcoats.

• Knowledge of quality management systems and methodologies (ISO 9001, AS9100, APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans).

• Demonstrated experience with supplier audits, process validation, and root cause analysis (8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone).

• Proficiency in SPC, inspection techniques, and data-driven quality metrics.

• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills for supplier and cross-functional engagement.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with ERP or QMS software (SAP, Oracle, etc.).

• Ability to travel to supplier sites as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with advanced composite manufacturing methods (e.g., prepreg layup, autoclave, oven-cure, resin transfer molding).

• Certification in Quality or Supplier Management (CQE, Six Sigma Green/Black Belt, or similar).

• Experience in a regulated or defense-related industry (aerospace, marine, defense).

• Working knowledge of NADCAP, ASTM standards, or MIL-STD composite quality requirements.

Physical Demands

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.

• Occasional standing and walking within the office.

• Manual dexterity to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and other office equipment.

• Visual acuity to read screens, documents, and reports.

• Occasional reaching, bending, or stooping to access file drawers, cabinets, or office supplies.

• Lifting and carrying items up to 20 pounds occasionally (e.g., office supplies, packages).

Benefits

• Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of services

• Saronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents

• Dental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision care

• Saronic pays 99% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents

• Time Off: Generous PTO and Holidays

• Parental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parents

• Competitive Salary: Industry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonuses

• Retirement Plan: 401(k) plan

• Stock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the company's success

• Life and Disability Insurance: Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage

• Additional Perks: Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the