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Supplier Quality Engineer

Henrico, VA 23231

Employment Type: Permanent Job Category: Quality Engineering Job Number: 49730222 Compensation: $80,000 / year

Job Description

Job Summary:
We are seeking an experienced Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) to play a key role in managing and improving supplier performance, ensuring that all supplied materials and components meet company quality standards and customer requirements. This role will be responsible for supplier selection, qualification, process validation, and ongoing performance improvement. The ideal candidate brings technical expertise, quality systems knowledge, and a collaborative mindset to drive supplier excellence.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Partner with Sourcing to select and qualify suppliers based on quality, capability, compliance, cost, delivery, and sustainability.
  • Conduct and lead new supplier qualification processes, including risk assessments, audits, and capability reviews.
  • Manage the supplier database and maintain accurate qualification records.
  • Develop strong relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders to support strategic goals
  • Lead the PPAP/FAI process including review of material certifications, control plans, FMEA, MSA, RoHS, CoC, and reliability test results.
  • Support Engineering in value-added proposals to optimize supplier manufacturing processes or design elements.
  • Track new part performance during pilot runs (1–3 lots), ensuring supplier adherence to quality requirements before mass production.
  • Drive root cause analysis and corrective actions in case of quality issues.
  • Conduct routine and maintenance audits to ensure suppliers meet ISO and regulatory standards.
  • Support ECO/ECN/SCR changes from customers, including associated PPAP/FAI requirements.
  • Participate in supplier quality system improvement plans and facilitate the Supplier Request for Change (SRFC) process.
  • Use quality tools and statistical methods to evaluate and improve supplier processes (e.g., DOE, SPC, Gage R&R, Capability Studies).
  • Guide suppliers through process validations and process improvements.
  • Collaborate with Receiving Inspection to enhance measurement systems and inspection protocols.
  • Track and rate supplier performance using key performance indicators (KPIs).
  • Investigate non-conformances, drive corrective/preventive actions, and lead root cause analyses.
  • Ensure dock-to-stock activities are aligned with quality expectations.
  • Provide engineering input during product design, development, and launch phases.
  • Support cross-functional teams in identifying supplier-related risks in product design and process development.
  • Participate in MRB decisions regarding supplier-provided components.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Quality, or related technical field (Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial preferred).
  • 5+ years of experience in supplier quality, quality engineering, or manufacturing engineering.
  • Strong knowledge of quality tools: FMEA, Control Plans, PPAP, MSA, SPC, Root Cause Analysis, CAPA.
  • Proficient in ISO 9001/13485, or relevant quality management systems.
  • Excellent communication, analytical, and interpersonal skills.
  • Hands-on experience with supplier audits, process validations, and statistical analysis tools.

Meet Your Recruiter

Max Francis
Recruiting Team Lead

Max Francis is a Recruiter at Sterling Engineering, where he has been a valued member of the team for more than seven years. He focuses on supporting a key Flex account, helping connect qualified candidates with opportunities that align with their experience, goals, and long-term career path.

Max understands that making a career move is a major life decision. He enjoys helping candidates navigate the ever-changing job market and hiring process with confidence, clarity, and support. His goal is to help each candidate take the next meaningful step in their career while finding the right long-term professional home.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information. 

 As one of the most respected names in engineering staffing, Sterling has hundreds of opportunities with top employers. If you’ve got a friend or colleague seeking their next move in engineering, we could have their next opportunity. We offer a referral bonus for every referral that we place. Submit referral now. 

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About Henrico, VA

Discover exciting job opportunities in the vibrant area around Henrico, Virginia today! Nestled in the heart of the historic Richmond metropolitan area, Henrico offers a perfect blend of southern charm and modern amenities, making it an ideal location for career growth and fulfillment. From the stunning Virginia Museum of Fine Arts to the lively performances at the Altria Theater and the thrill of cheering for the Richmond Flying Squirrels baseball team at The Diamond, this region has something for everyone. With its picturesque parks, unique cultural scene, and delicious cuisine ranging from classic Southern comfort food to innovative fusion dishes, Henrico is a place where work-life balance thrives. Explore our job listings now and embark on a rewarding career journey in this enchanting region!