Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced Supplier Quality Engineer to qualify, develop, and manage suppliers supporting aerospace and defense manufacturing programs. This position is responsible for supplier audits, First Article Inspection reviews, corrective actions, process validation, and ongoing supplier performance.
The ideal candidate will have strong aerospace manufacturing experience, extensive knowledge of AS9100 and AS9102 requirements, and a technical understanding of machining, coatings, painting, and other special processes. This role requires regular travel to supplier locations.
Key Responsibilities
- Qualify and manage suppliers in accordance with aerospace and defense industry standards, including AS9100 and program-specific requirements.
- Conduct supplier audits, technical capability assessments, and ongoing surveillance to ensure continued compliance and manufacturing capability.
- Review and approve First Article Inspection reports in accordance with AS9102 requirements.
- Verify that supplier documentation and manufactured products comply with engineering drawings, specifications, and contractual requirements.
- Lead root-cause analysis and corrective action activities using methodologies such as 8D, 5 Whys, and fishbone analysis.
- Investigate and resolve supplier nonconformances and recurring quality issues.
- Provide technical guidance related to machining, surface finishing, painting, coatings, and other aerospace manufacturing processes.
- Interpret engineering drawings and apply geometric dimensioning and tolerancing principles to evaluate supplier capability and product compliance.
- Collaborate with Procurement, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Operations to resolve quality issues and improve supplier performance.
- Participate in Material Review Board activities and support decisions involving supplier-related defects and nonconforming material.
- Maintain and improve supplier quality documentation, inspection criteria, and quality records in accordance with AS9100 requirements and internal policies.
- Monitor supplier performance and work directly with suppliers to implement sustainable quality and process improvements.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Quality Engineering, or a related technical field.
- At least five years of experience in supplier quality, quality engineering, or a related engineering role within the aerospace and defense industry.
- Strong working knowledge of machining, coatings, painting, and high-precision manufacturing processes.
- In-depth understanding of AS9100, AS9102, and aerospace quality and regulatory requirements.
- Experience conducting supplier audits, technical capability assessments, quality planning, and process validation.
- Experience reviewing First Article Inspection reports and resolving supplier quality issues.
- Advanced ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, technical specifications, and GD&T requirements.
- Experience with root-cause analysis and corrective action methodologies.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to influence suppliers and collaborate effectively with internal stakeholders.
- Willingness and ability to travel to supplier locations up to 75%.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with NADCAP-accredited special processes, including chemical processing, heat treatment, coatings, or nondestructive testing.
- Certified Quality Engineer, ASQ certification, or Lead Auditor certification.
- Familiarity with ERP and manufacturing execution systems such as SAP S/4HANA or ShopVue.
- Experience using quality and statistical analysis tools such as Minitab or statistical process control software.
- Experience supporting aerospace, defense, aviation, precision machining, or complex manufacturing programs.
Pay: Up to $130,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
