Our client, a leading aerospace manufacturer, is looking for a skilled Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) to join their quality assurance team. In this role, you'll play a critical part in managing and improving supplier quality by assessing and auditing supplier operations to ensure alignment with industry regulations, customer specifications, and internal quality benchmarks. You'll partner closely with suppliers to promote continuous improvement and ensure reliable delivery of top-tier components and materials.
This position is a remote role, but candidate must reside in the Charlotte, NC area.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct on-site audits to evaluate supplier quality management systems, operational practices, and compliance with standards such as AS9100 and NADCAP.
- Qualify and approve new suppliers through initial audits and maintain oversight with periodic assessments.
- Create and manage risk-based audit schedules tailored to supplier performance and criticality.
- Lead investigations into supplier non-conformances, identify root causes, and ensure effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) are implemented.
- Track and report supplier performance metrics including First Article Inspections (FAIs), Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) results, defect rates, and responsiveness.
- Support new product launches and supplier readiness initiatives by collaborating with engineering, procurement, and program management.
- Verify that critical aerospace manufacturing processes are stable and meet all required specifications.
- Draft and maintain supplier quality agreements and other necessary documentation.
- Stay updated on industry quality standards, customer-specific compliance needs, and evolving regulatory trends.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or a related engineering discipline.
- At least 3-5 years of supplier quality experience in an aerospace or defense manufacturing environment.
- Proficient understanding of aerospace quality standards and methodologies, including AS9100, NADCAP, PPAP, and FAI.
- Hands-on experience conducting audits; certification as a Lead Auditor (AS9100 or similar) is advantageous.
- Working knowledge of special processes such as welding, plating, NDT, or heat treating.
- Strong analytical abilities and experience applying root cause analysis tools (e.g., 8D, Fishbone, 5 Whys).
- Effective communicator with the ability to work cross-functionally and build productive relationships with suppliers.
- Able to travel 30-50% of the time, both domestically and internationally, as required.
Preferred Skills:
- Familiarity with APQP, control plans, and DFMEA/PFMEA processes.
- Experience with ERP systems like SAP, and data analysis tools such as Minitab.
- Background in Lean, Six Sigma, or other structured continuous improvement approaches (certification preferred).
- Must meet U.S. Person requirements as defined under 22 U.S.C. 6010.