Sr. Supplier Quality Engineer

AeroVironment is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Supplier Quality Engineer to join our dynamic team. As a Senior Supplier Quality Engineer, you will play a critical role in ensuring the quality and reliability of products delivered by our suppliers. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, build strong relationships with suppliers, and implement effective quality control measures to maintain the highest standards in our products. If you are passionate about driving continuous improvement, fostering innovation, and thrive in a fast-paced aerospace environment, we invite you to apply and be a part of our cutting-edge technology journey.

Duties

• Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive supplier quality strategy, aligning with overall company goals and objectives.
• Foster strong partnerships with key suppliers, serving as the primary point of contact for escalated quality matters and fostering collaborative problem-solving.
• Conduct thorough assessments and audits of supplier capabilities, quality systems, and processes to ensure compliance with established standards and regulations.
• Drive advanced root cause analysis and the development of robust corrective/preventive action plans for complex quality issues, demonstrating deep technical expertise.
• Oversee the qualification process for new suppliers, evaluating their technical capabilities, manufacturing processes, and quality systems to ensure alignment with stringent quality expectations.
• Establish and manage supplier quality metrics, utilizing data analysis to identify trends and opportunities for continuous improvement in supplier performance.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including Engineering, Operations, and Procurement to ensure seamless alignment on quality requirements and effective resolution of technical challenges.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to team members, fostering their growth and enhancing the overall expertise of the department.
• Innovate and develop advanced methodologies, tools, and approaches for optimizing supplier quality processes and driving continuous improvement.
• Lead complex supplier transitions, implementing effective strategies for smooth process handovers and minimizing disruptions.
• Conduct in-depth quality and process audits at suppliers' sites, overseeing approval of intricate Supplier Quality plans.
• Play a pivotal role in product realization by participating in critical drawing reviews, readiness assessments, and ensuring suppliers are aligned with requirements.
• Lead and manage the Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) at supplier locations, ensuring meticulous compliance and readiness for production.
• Drive strategic initiatives for cost reduction, quality enhancement, and successful product introductions in collaboration with cross-functional teams.
• Apply advanced quality methodologies such as SPC, Six Sigma, lean manufacturing, and provide guidance on interpreting intricate engineering specifications.
• Participate in high-level Product Readiness Reviews (PRR) and coordinate final inspections, demonstrating expertise in maintaining compliance and quality.
• Demonstrate exceptional communication skills, interacting professionally with internal and external stakeholders, including effective communication with senior management.
• Other duties as assigned

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience)

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Quality Management, or a related technical discipline.
• At least 8 years of relevant experience in quality engineering, supplier quality management or supplier development in the aerospace, defense, or high-tech industries.
• Strong understanding of quality management principles, supplier assessment methodologies, and quality control processes.
• Experience in conducting supplier audits and effectively managing supplier corrective action processes.
• Familiarity with industry standards and regulatory requirements, such as ISO 9001, AS9100, and ITAR regulations.
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to drive root cause analysis and implement effective corrective actions.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to interact with suppliers and internal stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally as required for supplier visits and audits (up to 70%)

Other Qualifications & Desired Competencies

• Experience in the aerospace or defense industry is preferred.
• Master’s degree in engineering or quality Management is a plus.
• Familiarity with the following standards and specifications - J-STD-001, IPC-A-600, IPC-A-610, IPC/WHMA-A-620.
• Professional certifications such as Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) or Certified Supplier Quality Professional (CSQP) are highly desirable.
• Experience with Lean Six Sigma methodologies and practices to drive continuous improvement efforts.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize tasks effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Proven track record of successful supplier development and collaboration on engineering design changes.
• Strong negotiation and conflict resolution skills to handle challenging situations with suppliers effectively.

Physical Demands

• Ability to work in an office or warehouse environment (Constant)
• Required to sit and stand for long periods; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard (Frequent)

Special Requirements

• U.S. Citizenship or U.S. permanent resident (Green Card holder), per ITAR definition