Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE)

Summary/Objective:

• This position will have a primary focus on Mainstream Products.
• A strong understanding of manufacturing methods and product knowledge of all Samtec offerings will be required.
• This will require the candidate to investigate and resolve component quality problems caused by an external Samtec supplier with the intent to correct defects and prevent recurrences of defects.
• Investigation techniques will include measuring, testing, tolerance analysis, root cause identification.
• This position will require the evaluation of historical data and quality problems to identify opportunities for continuous improvement at the component and supplier levels.
• This position will communicate with manufacturing, engineering, and management to implement Corrective Actions and Preventative Actions and when needed contract with the supplier to ensure noncompliant parts are brought into design specification.

Supplier Quality Mission: Provide support to manufacturing enabling high quality finished goods by continuous improvement of component quality and supplier development.

Essential Functions/ Responsibilities:

1. Identify root cause of quality issues and execution of product quality improvements through short/long term corrective actions and implementation of preventative actions.
2. Ensure site compliance to Samtec QMS to maintain ISO 9001 certification and other certifications
3. Ensure compliance to ITAR requirements.
4. Engage with suppliers on quality issues and generate detailed 8D reports including root cause analysis, corrective and preventive actions.
5. Conduct onsite supplier audits (domestic and international travel may be necessary).
6. Work with manufacturing quality, process engineering, product engineering, and/or operations to investigate root cause of quality issues and define corrective and preventive actions.
7. Study and recommend techniques to improve product and process control methods with suppliers
8. Own any quality assurance objectives established by upper management and work with operations staff to ensure the objectives are met.
9. Support internal auditors for compliance to procedures and work instructions.
10. Manage assigned projects and ensure they are completed in a timely manner.

“The responsibilities as defined are intended to serve as a general guideline for this position. Associates may be asked to perform additional tasks depending on strengths and capabilities.” 

Required Experience:

1. Must be able to interpret 2D drawings.
2. Familiarity with ISO 9001.
3. Working knowledge of 8D problem solving methodology.
4. Detail oriented problem solver with good analytical skills.
5. Strong written and verbal communication skills.
6. Excellent interpersonal skills in relating to both internal and external customers.
7. Able to manage competing priorities and make sound decisions in a fluid environment.
8. Working knowledge of FMEA, SPC, CpK, GRR, Lean, and DOE.
9. Must be able to sit/stand for at least 90 consecutive minutes, and not suffer from any sensory deprivation and/or paralysis of the limbs.

Preferred Experience:

1. 2-5 years of related job experience in Product, Design, Process or Quality Engineering.
2. Familiarity with manufacturing processes such as electro-plating, injection molding, tooling manufacturing.
3. Problem solving skills and thinking outside of the box are traits that are highly desired.
4. Ability to interpret relevant industry standards (IPC, ASME, etc) and apply them to quality problem resolution.

Preferred Education:

1. BS degree in Engineering/Science (Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, Material Science or equivalent).
2. Six Sigma Greenbelt or higher
3. ASQ Quality Certification