Sr. Engineer, Supplier Quality Assurance (SQA)

Title:  Sr. Engineer, Supplier Quality Assurance (SQA)

Reports to:  Sr. Manager, Supplier Quality Assurance (SQA)

Location:  Queen Creek, AZ

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Summary :  

This position is responsible for ensuring that components meet established quality standards, including reliability, usability, and performance. The role directly supports manufacturing quality assurance by conducting failure investigations and root cause analysis, utilizing appropriate analytical methods, technical skills, and equipment. The Senior SQA Engineer is expected to communicate effectively across all levels of the organization to address and resolve quality-related issues in a timely and efficient manner.

Responsibilities:

• Train production operators to perform inspections accurately in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Analyze samples from in-line returns and field returns, and report to headquarters if defects are determined to be caused by component-related issues
• Lead comprehensive process investigations to improve process stability and capability for cell and module components/products, addressing issues from their root causes
• Maintain close communication and collaboration with cross-functional teams including Production, Purchasing, and other departments
• Communicate and present quality processes officially to relevant internal stakeholders to ensure understanding and compliance
• Maintain and manage laboratory and testing equipment to ensure accuracy and reliability of test results
• Engage in frequent communication with the quality team in the Netherlands to share findings and implement verified corrective actions received from headquarters and engineers
• Monitor and continuously improve Statistical Process Control (SPC) systems to ensure consistent product quality
• Conduct inspections and perform root cause analyses for non-conforming raw materials and finished products
• Manage nonconforming components by marking with identifier labels, initiating indemnity claims, and requesting rework as necessary
• Conduct surveillance audits for suppliers to ensure adherence to quality standards
• Review and approve Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) submissions and manage changes in the 4M (Man, Machine, Material, Method) process
• Identify defects during incoming inspections and take corrective actions promptly
• Ensure work environments remain safe, organized, and efficient at all times
• Support and promote a company culture centered on quality, open communication, collaboration, integration, and teamwork
• Maintain cleanliness at the worksite in accordance with 5S3R Standards:
   - 5S: Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain
   - 3R: Right Location, Right Quantity, Right Container
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications and Requirements : 

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in quality assurance, preferably in a manufacturing or production environment
• Bachelor’s Degree in engineering, quality or related field required
• Six Sigma certification preferred
• Experience in hi-volume production, Control Plans, PFMEAs, and process controls preferred
• Knowledge of International Automotive Task Force (IATF) 16949 standards
• Knowledge of Minitab, Six Sigma, Eight Disciplines Methodology (8D) problem solving
• Critical thinking and an analytical approach to problem solving
• Ability to travel domestic and internationally
• Ability to work flexible hours as needed to support related teams and work with headquarters and other global sites
• Must be able to properly and regularly utilize the following Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for a period of up to 12 hours 
  • Safety glasses
  • Steel-toed shoes
• Must be able to perform the following over the course of up to 12 hours per day 
  • Lift/push/pull up to 35 pounds on occasion
  • Stoop, twist, bend
  • Reach overhead
  • Sit and/or stand for lengthy periods

Skills:

• Must have demonstrated knowledge of Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP), inspection equipment and techniques, root cause failure analysis, capability studies, statistical distributions, machine and assembly processes, problem solving, Process Flow Diagram (PFD) / PFMEA / Control Plan, PPAP, 8D / Five whys, team facilitation and geometric dimensioning and tolerance
• Knowledge and relevant experience in defining and understanding the roles of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Control Plans, Critical to Quality (CTQs), and Parameters for conducting Process Audits
• Positive, dedicated attitude and demonstrated effectiveness to achieve given goals within due dates
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Demonstrates a strong sense of ownership by taking full responsibility for assigned tasks and ensuring their successful completion
• Demonstrate teamwork and effectiveness in accomplishing goals
• Ability to analyze data and prepare reports, statements, and projections
• Ability to apply logical thinking and scientific theories to approach problem causes, along with a commitment to continuous improvement and the ability to generate ideas
• Good capability to use MS-office and Minitab programs
• Experience with report writing in Microsoft Word and graphical analysis in Minitab strongly preferred