Supplier Quality Engineer

Position SummaryThe Supplier QE is responsible for supporting and managing the quality performance of external suppliers. This role ensures that supplied materials, parts, and services meet customer quality standards, regulatory requirements, and customer expectations. The Supplier QE acts as the primary liaison between the customer and suppliers for quality-related activities, including qualification, audits, non-conformance resolution, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform detailed incoming inspections of supplier-provided parts, components, and materials using measurement tools such as calipers, micrometers, gauges, and CMM/vision systems.
• Support Supplier Quality Engineers in evaluating supplier performance and identifying trends related to defects, nonconformance, and delivery issues.
• Document inspection results, maintain accurate quality records, and ensure traceability in accordance with internal procedures.
• Assist with supplier corrective actions (SCARs), including containment verification, root cause investigation support, and corrective action validation.
• Conduct sample testing, first article inspections (FAI), and part approval processes (PPAP) as needed.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Engineering, Production, and Purchasing to communicate supplier quality concerns and help drive resolution.
• Support audits of supplier processes, materials, and quality systems as directed by Supplier Quality Engineering.
• Participate in continuous improvement activities related to supplier quality, inspection processes, and material handling.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized inspection work area and follow all safety protocols.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality, or related technical discipline (or equivalent experience).
• Proven experience in a quality engineering role within automotive or manufacturing industry.
• Working knowledge of APQP, PPAP, ISIR, TS-16949/IATF 16949, ISO 9001, and automotive Core Tools (APQP, PPAP, FMEA, MSA, SPC).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with hands-on experience in 8D, Ishikawa, containment, and corrective actions.
• Demonstrated ability to react quickly and effectively to customer or internal quality issues.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel for data analysis, PowerPoint for reporting, Word for documentation).
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Experience working with OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers is preferred
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to prioritize and respond rapidly in high-pressure environments.
• Systematic thinker with structured problem-solving approach.
• Team-oriented with strong interpersonal skills.
• Continuous improvement mindset aligned with lean manufacturing and quality principles.