Supplier Quality Engineer

Position Summary:

The Supplier Quality Engineer – External is responsible for managing the quality performance of the company’s supply base. This role focuses on direct engagement with suppliers to ensure components, materials, and services meet technical, quality, and delivery requirements.

In this start-up manufacturing environment, the External SQE will build and scale supplier quality processes, qualify and develop suppliers, and drive corrective actions. This role is distinct from the Internal SQE, who is responsible for in-house supplier documentation reviews and first article inspections (FAI). The External SQE owns supplier-facing activities, supplier audits, performance management, and issue resolution at the source.

Key Responsibilities:

Supplier Qualification & Onboarding

• Lead the evaluation and qualification of new suppliers
• Perform supplier capability assessments and quality system audits (onsite and remote)
• Partner with supply chain and engineering to ensure supplier readiness before production release
• Support development and maintenance of the Approved Supplier List (ASL)

Supplier Performance Management

• Establish and monitor supplier quality KPIs (PPM, on-time delivery, escapes, responsiveness)
• Conduct routine supplier performance reviews
• Identify high-risk suppliers and implement containment or improvement plans
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives with key suppliers

Corrective Action & Issue Resolution

• Lead supplier corrective action requests (SCARs)
• Coordinate root cause analysis and corrective actions with suppliers
• Verify effectiveness of supplier corrective and preventive actions
• Provide onsite support for major supplier quality issues when required

Process Audits & Development

• Conduct process audits to ensure compliance with drawings, specifications, and quality requirements
• Evaluate manufacturing controls, special processes, and inspection methods
• Work with suppliers to implement process improvements and mistake-proofing

Incoming Quality Support

• Support receiving inspection and production teams in resolving supplier-related nonconformances
• Coordinate supplier containment actions for defective or suspect material
• Drive rapid response to minimize production disruptions

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with supply chain on sourcing decisions, risk assessments, and supplier contracts
• Support engineering with supplier technical readiness and manufacturability concerns
• Coordinate with the Internal SQE responsible for first article and documentation reviews to ensure seamless supplier qualification and ongoing performance
• Supports and mentors Quality Inspectors

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, or related technical field (or equivalent experience)
• 4–8 years of experience in supplier quality, manufacturing quality, or supplier development
• Experience conducting supplier audits and managing corrective actions
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications
• Strong root cause analysis and problem-solving skills
• Experience in aerospace, defense, automotive, or other regulated manufacturing environments
• Familiarity with AS9100, ISO 9001, or similar quality systems
• ASQ certification (CQE, CQA, or similar)
• Due to the nature of PBS Aerospace's business as a defense contractor, this position is limited to US citizens, as defined under applicable federal regulations.

Work Environment & Travel:

• Fast-paced start-up manufacturing environment
• Up to 40–50% travel to supplier locations, as required

What We Offer:

- Opportunity to build and shape cutting-edge aerospace technology in a high-growth environment

- Competitive salary and full benefits package: health, dental, vision, 401(k), and paid time off

- Collaborative, dynamic work culture with high visibility and direct impact on company growth 

PBS Aerospace is committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis [protected class] including, but not limited to: veteran status, uniform service member status, age, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, marital status, genetic information or any other status or characteristic protected by applicable national, federal, state or local laws and ordinances. We adhere to these commitments in all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, training, compensation, promotion, benefits, and discipline.