Supplier Quality Specialist

TITLE: Supplier Quality SpecialistLocation: Burlington MA 01801Duration: Fulltime Permanent Position Summary: The Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) plays a critical role in ensuring the highest quality standards for materials and components supplied to an aerospace and defense organization. The position is responsible for overseeing and managing the quality performance of suppliers, ensuring adherence to industry standards such as AS9100, and conducting Root Cause Corrective Actions (RCCA) when issues arise. This role supports the overall supply chain and production process by mitigating quality risks and promoting continuous improvement through effective supplier relationships.Key Responsibilities:Supplier Quality Management:Conduct supplier assessments, audits, and evaluations to ensure compliance with AS9100, customer requirements, and regulatory standards.Develop and manage quality performance metrics and reports for suppliers.Monitor and manage suppliers quality performance, including product inspections, corrective actions, and non-conformance reports (NCRs).Root Cause Corrective Action (RCCA):Lead investigations into supplier quality issues, identifying root causes and recommending corrective actions.Work closely with cross-functional teams (engineering, manufacturing, and procurement) to implement and track corrective actions.Ensure timely closure of corrective actions and verify their effectiveness.Supplier Development:Collaborate with suppliers to improve quality, reduce defects, and enhance processes.Facilitate training for suppliers on quality standards and improvement tools, including problem-solving techniques, AS9100 requirements, and lean principles.Develop action plans for suppliers to address quality issues and improve processes based on audit findings and performance metrics.Quality Control and Assurance:Review and approve supplier documentation, including Certificates of Compliance (CoCs), material certifications, and inspection reports.Conduct product inspections and audits at supplier sites when required to ensure adherence to product specifications and standards.Coordinate and facilitate first article inspections (FAI) and incoming material inspections.Risk Management:Identify potential risks in the supply chain and develop mitigation strategies to ensure uninterrupted production.Ensure all suppliers are compliant with the latest quality regulations and standards, such as AS9100 and other applicable industry certifications.Continuous Improvement:Promote a culture of continuous improvement by applying Six Sigma, lean, or other improvement methodologies to supplier processes.Analyze supplier data to identify trends and implement improvement plans.Collaborate with suppliers on cost reduction initiatives without compromising quality.Cross-Functional Collaboration:Work closely with internal teams (engineering, procurement, production) to address quality-related concerns and resolve issues quickly.Communicate effectively with suppliers to ensure alignment on quality standards and expectations.Act as the primary point of contact for all quality-related concerns with suppliers.Qualifications:Education:Bachelors degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, or a related field (preferred).ASQ certifications (e.g., CQE, CQA) or equivalent are a plus.Experience:5+ years of experience in supplier quality management, quality assurance, or manufacturing engineering, ideally in the aerospace, defense, or similar regulated industry.Experience with AS9100 quality systems, audits, and compliance.Familiarity with RCCA methodologies and root cause analysis tools (e.g., 5 Whys, Fishbone diagram, FMEA).Skills:Strong understanding of quality management systems (QMS) and regulatory standards in aerospace and defense.Proficiency in supplier audits, inspections, and qualification processes.Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to lead RCCA efforts.Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with suppliers and cross-functional teams.Knowledge of statistical process control (SPC), process improvement techniques, and continuous improvement methodologies.Other:Ability to travel to supplier sites for audits and inspections.Knowledge of SAP, ERP systems, and quality management software is a plus.Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail.Work Environment:Office and on-site visits to suppliers.The role may involve occasional travel to supplier locations for audits, assessments, and issue resolution.This role ensures that the supplier base remains compliant with aerospace and defense industry standards and supports continuous improvement initiatives to meet the highest quality expectations.Thanks!Ritika AithmianLead Recruiter Ritika.aithmian@

Created: 2025-02-20