Supplier Quality Engineer

The Relyans Max Group is a leading supplier in the field of high-strength fasteners for mobility and beyond. We are technologically the world's leading manufacturer of high-strength fasteners and a leading partner for complex, cold-formed parts. In the automotive sector, our recipe for success is: finding solutions today for the challenges of tomorrow.

Supplier Quality Engineer                        

Grade: 10

Reports to:  Director of Quality                                   Department: Quality      

Classification: Salary                                                 Division: North America Region

Date: 6/2/2025                                                        Shift: 1st    

JOB SUMMARY:

The Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) manages supplier quality and component/service integrity through assessment of capabilities, compliance to processes and automotive standards, performance scorecards, continuous improvement efforts, and corrective actions. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Evaluate supplier viability through feasibility studies, audits, capacity (run@rate) and record of performance.
• Provide recommendations and develop action plans to close gaps and improve quality/delivery performance; monitor performance and follow-up to ensure full implementation of control plan objectives.
• Perform engineering studies and analyses to root cause issues and develop effective resolutions.
• Facilitate/lead KAMAX supplier quality meetings, problem solving, reject/defect investigation related to supplier products and services.
• Manage supplier scorecards; initiate appropriate action based on trends and performance.
• Coordinate incoming material inspection processes with Materials, Quality and Engineering.
• Manage purchased part quality issues including initial supplier contact, containment for quality issues, and the permanent corrective action cycle.
• Travel to supplier locations for verification.
• Participate in KAMAX global supplier quality strategies and initiatives.
• Monitor and ensure timely implementation of Engineering Change Requests (supplier or customer initiated), including PPAP approval.
• Manage IATF 16949 internal and external audit process for supplier activities.
• Support cross-functional problem-solving and corrective actions for quality-related material shortages.
• Develop and implement statistically valid sampling plans, designed experiments, capability studies, SPC, and trend analysis in support of products and service improvements.
• Identify internal improvement opportunities and coordinate corrective actions within both KAMAX and supplier manufacturing processes.
• Manage the physical and electronic quarantine of suspect or defective product, both in-process and in the warehouse.
• Manage supplier RMA numbers to complete disposition on suspect material within Hold Cage or RMA area in a timely manner.
• Support Purchasing with cost recovery and debits related to supplier issues.
• • Serve as a role model within KAMAX and with suppliers for creating a culture of quality through general awareness, training, and education of quality policies and practices; drive a zero-defect and continuous improvement mindset.
  • Review supplier quality manuals and recommend / implement improvements in coordination with Purchasing based on customer specific requirements and audit feedback.
  • Conduct training for suppliers in quality principles, effective corrective actions, and valid statistical techniques.
  • Support OEM Quality Management as assigned.
  • Perform other duties as identified in support of KAMAX business objectives.

   

  CORE COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:

   

  • Intermediate or higher-level knowledge of general statistical analysis, PFMEA, Control Plans, Containment Plans, MSA, GD&T, Gage Methodology, Gage R&R, APQP, PPAP, Run@Rate, Capacity and Feasibility analysis.
  • High level knowledge of product reliability and testing methods.
  • High level root cause and problem-solving skills.
  • High level presentation, facilitation and conflict resolution skills.
  • Able to draft effective policies, plans, and supplier communications.
  • Comprehensive understanding and successful application of ASTM, ISO:9001 / IATF16949, ISO:14001, ISO/IEC:17025:VDA 6.3 standards.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of preparing & executing audits and assessments and following up on corrective actions.
  • Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office, SAP and Document Management Systems.
  • Team-orientation to participate in and frequently lead cross-functional teams.

   

  JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

   

  • Bachelor’s degree in a technical field and/or 5 years of combined Manufacturing/Quality Engineering and/or Quality Systems experience.
  • 5 years of experience working in an ISO / IATF certified environment highly preferred.
  • ASQ certification (CQI, CQA, CQT, CQE etc…) and / or PMP certifications a plus.
  • Ability to travel up to 25% of the work week with little advanced notice.

   

  ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURES:

   

  • Noise – heavy machinery if in plant.
  • Noise – vibratory bowls and air feed systems – if in plant.
  • Chemicals, oils, acids, sprays, coolants and solvents.
  • Responsible for complying with regulations and standards covered under MISOSHA.