Supplier Engineer in Addison, Texas at Firehawk Aerospace Inc

Location: Addison, TX

About Firehawk Aerospace
Firehawk Aerospace is pioneering the development of additively manufactured rocket propulsion systems, combining advanced manufacturing techniques with innovative engineering to deliver safer, more reliable, and cost-effective solutions for aerospace and defense. We are seeking a talented Supplier Engineer to join our team and help shape the future of rocket motor manufacturing.

Job Summary
As a Supplier Engineer at Firehawk Aerospace, you will be responsible for managing activities at external suppliers from establishing product and process development through production. Collaborating closely with Engineering and Supply Chain, you will drive the vetting and qualification of Firehawk’s supply base to ensure product conformity, identify and resolve product and process issues, and promote continuous improvement initiatives. This position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving, a strong understanding of engineering and supplier quality principles, and a commitment to optimizing supplier performance.

Key Responsibilities
• Serve as the focal point for supplier quality, development, manufacturing, and sustainment
• Lead supplier hardware and process development and qualification activities
• Manage supplier performance and compliance in accordance with Firehawk’s AS9100 certified QMS as well as DoD and customer specific flow-down requirements and regulatory standards
• Partner with Supply Chain and Engineering to address supplier risks, performance issues, and process capability gaps
• Analyze supplier metrics and performance trends to drive continuous improvement within the supply base to improve quality, delivery, and compliance
• Review and approve FAI reports, deviation requests, and nonconformance dispositions
• Support quality planning activities including receiving inspection planning, supplier control plans, risk assessments, and quality clauses flow-down
• Support supplier's manufacturing and production readiness reviews, identifying risks and driving corrective actions
• Investigate supplier escapes and ensure thorough root cause analysis is performed with effective corrective and preventative actions
• Conduct supplier audits, assessments, and surveillance activities
• Support internal, customer, and regulatory audits, ensuring compliance with AS9100 and internal QMS procedures
• Support development and maintenance of quality documentation and work instructions
• Provide technical guidance to junior quality engineers and cross-functional team members

Basic Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related technical discipline
• Minimum of 5 years of engineering experience in aerospace and defense manufacturing
• Proven ability to work independently and lead cross-functional initiatives
• Demonstrated experience in a supplier quality role
• Strong working knowledge of GD&T
• Experience with AS9100 / ISO 9001 and aerospace and defense customer requirements
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, industry and military specifications, and contractual requirements
• Experience using structured problem-solving methodologies (e.g. 8D, 5-Why)
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including customer and supplier interaction
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance
• Work Requirements: Combination of office and manufacturing floor with periodic travel for supplier visits

Preferred Qualifications
• Demonstrated experience leading hardware and process qualification activities within the defense industry
• Familiarity with R&D manufacturing in the aerospace and defense industry
• Experience with raw materials and polymer processing
• Demonstrated experience in program quality roles
• Experience supporting internal, customer, and third-party audits
• Experience with MRB participation and authority
• Experience with AS9102 and AS9103
• Familiarity with APQP, PPAP, FMEA, SPC, and risk-based quality tools

ITAR Requirements:
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements:
Employees in these positions must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and to use standard office equipment, including a computer; stamina to sit and to maintain attention to detail despite interruptions; may occasionally lift/carry/push/pull up to 25 pounds; may require minimal walking, standing for extended amounts of time, climbing, crouching, and/or bending; and vision to read printed materials and a computer screen, and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone. May require the ability to travel by air or auto. May require the use of personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, safety shoes, and shop coat. These positions may be expected to work varying shifts and hours to ensure successful operation of activities in the organization.

Security Clearance:
May be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance at the appropriate level. Requires U.S. Citizenship. Must also be able to satisfy federal government requirements for access to government information, and having dual citizenship may preclude you from being able to meet this requirement.

Benefits at Firehawk Aerospace
At Firehawk Aerospace, we are committed to supporting the well-being of our employees and their families. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to provide peace of mind and help you thrive both personally and professionally.
•Health Coverage: We offer 100% employer-paid medical premiums for employees and up to 75% coverage for dependents under select plans, with additional options for PPO and HDHP plans. Coverage begins the first of the month following your hire date.
•Dental and Vision Plans: Affordable dental and vision plans with extensive coverage options, including preventive care, orthodontics, and allowances for contacts and frames.
•Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Access to free, confidential services, including counseling, legal consultations, wellness coaching, and virtual concierge services to support your work-life balance.
•Flexible Work Schedule: Enjoy a 9/80 schedule option, allowing for greater flexibility and work-life balance.
•On-Site Perks: Complimentary snacks and refreshments to keep you energized throughout the day.
•Professional Growth: Mentorship opportunities with industry-leading engineers and engagement in cutting-edge projects at the forefront of aerospace innovation.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:
Firehawk Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Firehawk Aerospace is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender