Supplier Quality Engineer in Santa Fe Springs, California at Advanced Ground Systems Engineering LLC

Job Summary

The Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) ensures that all purchased components, materials, and assemblies meet AGSE’s quality and regulatory requirements. The SQE manages supplier qualification, performance monitoring, audits, and quality issue resolution. The role supports new product introduction and drives supplier-based continuous improvement in accordance with ISO 9001, AS9100, and customer-specific standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Engineering and Procurement on supplier selection, qualification, and development.
• Ensure technical and quality requirements are effectively communicated to suppliers via ERP systems.
• Build strong supplier relationships to align on expectations, standards, and improvement goals.
• Conduct on-site and remote supplier audits per ISO 9001, AS9100, and customer-specific criteria.
• Monitor and report supplier performance using scorecards and key quality metrics.
• Manage supplier nonconformance (NCMRs), deviation requests, and concession approvals.
• Lead root cause and corrective action (RCCA) activities for supplier issues using 8D, 5-Why, and Ishikawa tools.
• Review and approve First Article Inspections (FAIs) per AS9102 or customer requirements.
• Assess and validate special processes (e.g., welding, plating, heat treating) for compliance and NADCAP certification.
• Provide quality guidance to suppliers, including reviews of PPAPs, PFMEAs, and Control Plans.
• Support New Product Development (NPD) and Introduction (NPI) to ensure supplier readiness from prototype through production.
• Participate in internal and external audits, including ISO, customer, and regulatory bodies.
• Promote continuous improvement and lean practices within AGSE and its supplier base.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality, or related technical discipline.
• Minimum 3 years in Quality Engineering, preferably in aerospace, manufacturing, or defense.
• In-depth knowledge of ISO 9001 and/or AS9100 standards.
• Proficient in FAIRs (AS9102), PPAP, APQP, and SPC.
• Experienced with GD&T and engineering drawing interpretation.
• Working knowledge of inspection tools and technologies (CMMs, PCMMs, Romer/Faro Arms).
• Strong analytical, communication, and documentation skills.
• Familiar with ERP/MRP systems.
• Willing to travel domestically and internationally to supplier sites.

Preferred Qualifications

• 3+ years specifically in Supplier Quality Engineering.
• Familiarity with NADCAP and special process audits.
• CQE, Six Sigma, or ISO Lead Auditor certification.
• Proficient in ERP/MRP- Epicor

Physical Requirements & Work Conditions

• Regularly required to sit, walk, stand, and operate standard office and inspection equipment.
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds.
• Visual acuity required for detailed inspection and document review.
• Occasional exposure to manufacturing environments, including noise, chemicals, and machinery.
• Occasional travel required (domestic and international).