Supplier Quality Engineer

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 Relyans Max 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 Relyans Max 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 Relyans Max 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 Relyans Max 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 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.

Requirements

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 preferred.
• 1+ year of working in the fastener industry 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.