Supplier Quality Engineer, REX

The Range Extender Engine (REX) is a critical subsystem supporting vehicle performance, reliability, and customer satisfaction. To ensure the highest levels of quality, Scout is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) to oversee supplier quality management for the REX program.

Role Summary

The Supplier Quality Engineer (REX) will be responsible for managing and ensuring the quality of the small range extender engine and its subcomponents supplied to Scout Motors. This role involves early supplier engagement, risk assessment, development, and continuous monitoring to ensure flawless product launches and sustained supplier performance.

Become part of an iconic brand that is set to revolutionize the electric pick-up truck & rugged SUV marketplace by achieving the following:

• Supplier Engagement & Development
• Lead supplier quality activities for the REX program from sourcing through SOP.
• Evaluate and approve suppliers for the range extender engine and critical subcomponents.
• Drive supplier APQP and PPAP activities in alignment with IATF 16949 and VDA standards.
• Quality Planning & Execution
• Develop and execute the supplier quality strategy for the REX program.
• Ensure suppliers meet Scout Motors’ quality, safety, and durability requirements.
• Review and approve supplier control plans, FMEAs, and validation test plans.
• Launch Readiness & Industrialization
• Support supplier readiness for prototype, pre-series, and production builds.
• Conduct on-site supplier process audits and run-at-rate verification.
• Ensure timely resolution of issues that could impact program milestones or MRD.
• Issue Resolution & Continuous Improvement
• Lead root cause analysis and corrective action for supplier quality issues.
• Monitor supplier KPIs and drive continuous improvement activities.
• Collaborate with internal engineering, purchasing, and manufacturing teams to ensure robust problem-solving.

Location & Travel Expectations:

• This role will be based out of the Scout Motors location in Columbia, South Carolina. 
• The responsibilities of this role require daily attendance in office with in-person meetings and events regularly. 
• Applicants should expect that the role will require the ability to convene with Scout colleagues in person and travel to participate in events on behalf of the company from time to time.
• Travel: Domestic and international travel required, approximately 40 - 70% of the time. Valid driver's license required. Passport required

We expect all Scout employees to have integrity, curiosity, resourcefulness, and strive to exhibit a positive attitude, as well as a growth mindset. You’ll be comfortable with change and flexible in a fast-paced, high-growth environment. You’ll take a collaborative approach to achieve ambitious goals. Here's what else you'll bring: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Quality, or related field required.
• 5+ years of supplier quality, manufacturing quality, or supplier development experience (automotive or powertrain preferred).
• Strong knowledge of APQP, PPAP, IATF 16949, and VDA 6.3.
• Experience with engines, powertrain systems, or range extender technologies strongly preferred.
• Proven ability to lead supplier quality projects from nomination through SOP.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Understanding safety standards, IATF, VDA, ISO, DIN, and regulatory requirements.
• Certification in AIAG Core Tools: MSA, APQP, FMEA, Control Plans, PPAP.
• Proven ability to lead supplier activities at the management level and ensure alignment with customer requirements.
• Strong project management skills with results-driven execution.
• Proficiency in SPC, data analysis, and technical writing, with the ability to simplify complex issues.
• Drive continuous improvement activities using Lean Manufacturing principles.
• Ensure suppliers have robust processes for mass industrialization and seamless production of high-quality products.
• Validate supplier corrective actions for design/process changes and apply read-across methodology to similar lines or suppliers.
• Support evaluation of new or alternative materials that improve robustness, manufacturability, quality, or cost.
• Participate in supplier reviews, including new supplier onboarding and design-for-manufacturability assessments.
• Guide suppliers in applying best manufacturing practices, testing, gauging, poke-yokes, and correct assembly equipment.
• Drive quality improvements with Engineering, Quality, and Operations to meet or exceed KPIs.
• Lead or support root cause analysis and rapid response to ensure Scout’s vehicle quality standards are upheld.

• Ability and willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required, approximately 40 - 70%% of the time. 
• Valid driver's license required.
• Passport required

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working directly with engine suppliers or tier-one powertrain suppliers.
• Knowledge of hybrid and electrified powertrain systems and how the REX integrates into BEV/EREV platforms.
• Understanding of emissions regulations, durability testing, and engine validation processes.
• Experience with launch readiness and serial production quality management.
• Proficiency with supplier development and risk assessment tools.
• Cross-cultural communication and international supplier management experience.

The benefits of joining Scout include the chance to build products and a company from the ground up.  This is a chance to create something new and lasting – with an iconic brand at its foundation.  In addition, Scout provides competitive compensation and benefits to support your physical, mental, and financial wellbeing. Program specifics are detailed in company policies and employee benefit guides, select highlights:

• Competitive insurance including:
  • Medical, dental, vision and income protection plans
• 401(k) program with:
  • An employer match and immediate vesting
• Generous Paid Time Off including:
  • 20 days planned PTO, as accrued
  • 40 hours of unplanned PTO and 14 company or floating holidays, annually
  • Up to 16 weeks of paid parental leave for biological and adoptive parents of all genders
  • Paid leave for circumstances related to bereavement, jury duty, voting time, or military leave

This is a full-time, exempt position eligible to receive a base salary and to participate in an annual performance bonus program. Final salary offered will be determined based on factors including but not limited to the candidate's skills and experience. The annual performance bonus program is preset and not candidate dependent.

Initial base salary range = $95,000.00 - $120,000.00

Internal leveling code: IC9