Supplier Quality Engineer

Supplier Quality Engineer

Billerica, MA

Direct Hire/ Permanent

Overview

The Supplier Quality Engineer will develop and sustain supplier quality programs to ensure that purchased mechanical components and assemblies comply with all engineering and contractual standards. This role supports both new product development and ongoing production supply chains through quality planning, supplier evaluation, auditing, and process capability analysis.

Primary Responsibilities

• Create and implement quality plans for new parts and assemblies, including purchase order flow-downs, source and incoming inspection requirements, and first article reviews.
• Participate in supplier qualification, auditing, and improvement initiatives to enhance performance metrics and ensure ongoing compliance.
• Collaborate with suppliers to clarify technical requirements, contract expectations, and quality documentation processes such as FAI, nonconformance handling, and RCCA.
• Evaluate supplier process controls and ensure robust inspection and record-keeping systems are maintained.
• Conduct on-site audits and verify corrective actions for quality issues.
• Support production teams in identifying failure modes and driving supplier corrective measures.
• Manage nonconformance reports and coordinate timely resolutions.
• Reduce cost-of-quality drivers by targeting scrap, rework, and process inefficiencies.
• Review and certify key supplier processes through process control plans and inspection protocols.
• Partner cross-functionally to assist in failure analysis and quality data review.
• Lead supplier CAPA activities to prevent recurrence of quality issues.
• Prepare and present monthly quality performance summaries to management.
• Define inspection parameters and sampling frequencies for both internal and supplier operations.
• Promote continuous quality improvement at critical suppliers and support the incoming inspection team.
• Occasional domestic and international travel (up to 10%) may be required.
• Champion lean manufacturing, 6S practices, and safety initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with material regulations (RoHS, REACH, TSCA).
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related technical discipline with at least five years of relevant industry experience.
• Hands-on knowledge of precision machining, sheet metal fabrication, and component special processes.
• Working understanding of ISO 9001 and AS9100 standards and auditing practices.
• Familiarity with Six Sigma methodologies, statistical analysis tools, and quality improvement techniques.
• Proficient in blueprint reading, GD&T, and interpreting engineering and military specifications.
• Strong communication, computer, and negotiation skills.

Core Competencies

• Sound judgment in making recommendations and decisions.
• Results-driven and proactive in improving processes and effectiveness.
• Persistent in problem-solving and root cause identification.
• Analytical and creative thinker with a focus on practical solutions.
• Clear and effective communicator in both writing and speech.
• Demonstrates integrity and adherence to professional standards.