Applied Research Associates (ARA) is looking for a Staff Supplier Quality Engineer with a broad set of skills and experience to join our Southwest Division in Albuquerque, NM. Our diverse, energetic, and collaborative Concept Development Group offers an excellent opportunity to join our dynamic, employee-owned team in providing critical capabilities to our warfighters through innovative engineering solutions. The Supplier Quality Engineer works closely with purchasing, engineering and our suppliers to develop relationships that improve overall component quality as well as identify, vet and qualify potential new vendors. They will define a strategy and key requirements for supplier on-boarding, maintenance, issue resolution, and continuous improvement.

As a Supplier Quality Engineer, you will proactively work with suppliers before and during manufacturing process to ensure successful execution, resulting in on time delivery of high-quality components. When quality issues occur, works with internal departments and supplier to ensure defects are addressed in a timely manner and dispositions are clearly communicated, as well as implement risk mitigation strategies and contingency plans to minimize disruptions and ensure continuity of supply.

Essential Duties:

• Lead and manage supplier performance activities to ensure high-quality standards and timely delivery of materials and components.
• Conduct thorough inspections of components procured from third-party suppliers to verify their authenticity and quality.
• Conduct thorough root cause analysis and implement corrective and preventive actions to address supplier quality issues.
• Maintain accurate records of inspection results, non-conformities, and corrective actions taken.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers, focusing on continuous improvement and collaboration.
• Monitor and evaluate supplier performance metrics, identifying trends and areas for improvement.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering, procurement, and quality, to ensure supplier performance aligns with company standards and project requirements.
• Provide technical guidance and support to suppliers to enhance their manufacturing processes and quality control systems.
• Drive supplier audits and assessments to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
• Lead supplier development initiatives, including training programs and process improvement projects.
• Prepare and present supplier performance reports to senior management, highlighting key findings and recommendations.
• Stay current with industry trends and best practices related to supplier quality management and casting production.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain Management or a related field.

Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in Supplier Quality Management or Strategic Sourcing, with a focus on production and quality.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• Proven expertise in performing complete root cause analysis and implementing corrective and preventive actions.
• Strong knowledge of industry standards and regulatory requirements related to supplier quality management.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain strong supplier relationships.
• Proficiency in using quality management tools and software.
• Willingness to travel as needed to visit supplier sites and conduct audits.
• Able to work independently and ensure tasks are completed with little supervision.
• Achievement-oriented - enjoys taking on challenges, even if they might fail.
• Possess the ability to be a team player.
• Strong prioritization, organization, and project management skills.