Supplier Quality Engineer, Apptronik

• Deep understanding of mechanical and electrical manufacturing processes (CNC machining, injection molding, casting, PCBA, harnessing)
• Proficient in reading and interpreting GD&T, engineering drawings, and quality specs
• Experience with process audits, root cause analysis (5 Whys, 8D), and continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma)
• Familiarity with quality tools such as FMEA, SPC, MSA, control plans, and capability studies
• Experience with APQP, PPAP, and DFx during product development
• Comfortable working with contract manufacturers and setting up inspection criteria for new parts
• Strong documentation and communication skills; capable of creating clear inspection guidelines, visual aids, and MSOPs
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally up to 40%
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering (or related)
• 6+ years of experience in supplier quality or manufacturing quality in a high-complexity environment (robotics, aerospace, automotive, etc.)
• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times
• Vision to read printed materials and a computer screen
• Hearing and speech to communicate

Desirable

• We are looking for a skilled and driven Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) to support the development and delivery of high-quality mechanical and electrical components from our global supply base
• This role will be responsible for managing supplier qualification, driving issue resolution, and ensuring that all incoming parts meet engineering and quality requirements
• You’ll work closely with internal teams including design, test, supply chain, and manufacturing as well as directly with suppliers and contract manufacturers to align on specifications, inspection standards, and process controls
• Evaluate, qualify, and onboard new mechanical and electrical suppliers (PCBA, actuators, wire harnesses, castings, etc.)
• Review engineering drawings and ensure supplier alignment on measurement SOPs (MSOPs), GD&T, and critical-to-function features
• Lead process and part audits at supplier sites (e.g. , capability studies, material review, cleanliness, traceability)
• Drive APQP/PPAP activities with suppliers, including process validation, control plans, and first article inspection (FAI) reviews
• Monitor supplier performance through metrics such as DPPM, OTD, NCR closure rate, and FPY; maintain dashboards and lead RCA sessions
• Conduct regular reviews of supplier DFM, inspection plans, and material flow documentation
• Work with suppliers to close out issues through RCCA, 8D, SCARs, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Support manufacturing and incoming inspection teams by translating spec requirements into executable quality checks
• Drive lessons learned into the supplier base and feed failure data into internal quality planning
• Act as a liaison between engineering and suppliers for drawing changes and spec clarifications
• Support CM build readiness with quality documentation, training, and first build oversight