Supplier & Plant Quality Engineer in Richfield, Wisconsin at Flamingo Marine Inc

ABOUT US:
As a manufacturing startup dedicated to transforming the pontoon boat industry, Flamingo prioritizes innovation, performance, and quality to deliver exceptional on-water experiences. We’re currently seeking an experienced Supplier & Plant Quality Engineer to help us build and scale a high-performing manufacturing operation from the ground up.

POSITION OVERVIEW:
This position is responsible for driving quality performance across the assembly floor and supply base. Serving as the primary owner for internal defect resolution and supplier non-conformance, this role manages end-to-end problem-solving to protect line velocity and end-product quality. The individual acts as the central link between Manufacturing, Engineering, and external vendors, leading root-cause analysis, supplier corrective action plans, cross-functional technical alignment, and supplier chargeback recovery.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Internal Line Quality & Defect Management: Respond directly to pontoon assembly line defects; lead immediate containment activities and execute structured end-to-end problem solving (e.g., 8D, 5-Why, Fishbone) to prevent recurrence.
- Supplier Non-Conformance Management: Formally log, document, and communicate non-conforming raw materials, extrusions, and assemblies to vendors; issue and track Supplier Corrective Action Requests (SCARs/NCRs).
- Cross-Functional Solution Finding: Facilitate technical alignment between Engineering, Production, and Supplier Quality teams to expedite drawing revisions, deviation approvals, temporary rework protocols, or corrected replacement shipments.
-Supplier Financial Recovery (Chargebacks): Calculate, document, and process financial chargebacks for vendor-responsible defects, accounting for line downtime, scrap material, containment sorting, and internal rework labor hours.
- In-Plant Containment & Sorting: Establish containment areas (MRB) for defective components; coordinate third-party or internal sort and rework efforts to ensure uncompromised flow to the production line.
- Supplier Performance & Quality Metrics: Monitor defect trends (PPM, NCR counts) to identify recurring vendor quality issues and drive targeted vendor accountability and process audits.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree in Quality Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical
Engineering, or related technical field preferred; equivalent hands-on quality experience in manufacturing accepted.
- 3+ years of experience in plant quality engineering, supplier quality, or
manufacturing quality within a discrete assembly environment (marine, automotive, or heavy equipment manufacturing preferred).
- Strong proficiency in root-cause analysis methods (8D, 5-Why, CAPA); ability to
read engineering drawings/blueprints and GD&T; experience using ERP/Quality Management Systems (QMS).
- Proven ability to manage tough technical conversations with
vendors, enforce commercial accountability for defects, and build strong cross-functional partnerships on the shop floor.

JOB EXPECTATIONS:
- The physical demands described below are representative to be able to successfully perform the essential functions of the position.
- Reasonable accommodations may be made to individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Lift and/or move up to 50 lbs.
- Stand, walk, reach with hands and arms.
- Climb, squat, bend, and kneel.
- Vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

WHAT WE OFFER:
Competitive pay and benefits
A clean, safe, and modern production environment
401k retirement plan
Paid time off and holidays
Leadership opportunities in a growing company with long-term vision
A culture that values craftsmanship, innovation, and teamwork

Flamingo Marine is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.

Join Our Crew. Shape the Future of Boating. If you're ready to take the lead, share your expertise, and help us build the next generation of pontoon boats, we want to hear from you.