Supplier Quality Engineer

Job Title: Supplier Quality Engineer

Location: Ashland, OH

Reports To: Plant Manager

Job Summary:

As a Supplier Quality Engineer in the construction fastener industry, you will be responsible for evaluating, developing, and managing suppliers to ensure supply chain efficiency, quality, and reliability. You will work closely with suppliers to improve their processes, quality systems, and performance to meet company standards and customer expectations.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Supplier Evaluation and Selection:

• Conduct supplier assessments and audits to evaluate capabilities, quality systems, and compliance with industry standards.
• Assist in the selection of new suppliers based on strategic sourcing initiatives and project requirements.
• Develop and maintain a robust supplier qualification process.

2. Supplier Development:

• Work with suppliers to identify and implement process improvements, cost reductions, and quality enhancements.
• Facilitate training and development programs for suppliers to improve their capabilities and performance.
• Monitor and report on supplier performance using key performance indicators (KPIs).

3. Quality Assurance:

• Collaborate with suppliers to develop and implement quality assurance plans.
• Ensure that suppliers comply with company quality standards and regulatory requirements.
• Investigate and resolve supplier-related quality issues, including root cause analysis and corrective actions.

4. Project Management:

• Lead and manage supplier development projects to ensure timely delivery of quality products.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams, including procurement, engineering, and quality assurance, to achieve project goals.
• Track project milestones, timelines, and deliverables.

5. Continuous Improvement:

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the supply chain to enhance overall performance.
• Stay informed with industry trends, technologies, and best practices to bring innovative solutions to the supply chain.
• Implement Lean, Six Sigma, and other process improvement methodologies.

6. Relationship Management:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers to foster collaboration and mutual growth.
• Act as the primary point of contact for suppliers regarding technical and quality issues.
• Negotiate contracts and agreements with suppliers to ensure favorable terms and conditions.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in supplier development, quality assurance, or supply chain management, preferably in the construction fastener industry.
• Knowledge of quality management systems, standards, and methodologies (e.g., ISO, Lean, Six Sigma).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for working with cross-functional teams and suppliers.
• Proficiency in using supplier management and quality assurance software/tools.
• Ability to travel 20% to supplier locations as required.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Professional certifications such as Certified Supplier Quality Professional (CSQP), Six Sigma Black Belt, or Lean Manufacturing.
• Experience with advanced manufacturing processes and technologies in the construction fastener industry (e.g., heading, threading, heat treating, plating, coating, painting).
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements and industry standards related to construction fasteners.

Work Environment:

• This position will require up to 20% travel to supplier sites and manufacturing facilities.
• Work is performed in both office and manufacturing settings.