Associate Engineer - Supplier Quality / Supply Chain

ZF Group • Lapeer, MI

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About The Position

The Associate Supplier Quality / Supply Chain Engineer role at ZF in Lapeer, MI will work with a four-person quality team supporting suspension component manufacturing, including control arm machining and assembly, ball pin machining, and ball joint assembly. This role works to carry out engineering assignments tied to product quality, process support, testing and validation, and engineering change management. The associate engineer supports troubleshooting of product and process issues, conducts routine testing and data analysis, prepares technical documentation, and helps coordinate and release approved engineering changes to ensure timely implementation in production. As part of the broader quality organization—which also covers warranty, supplier quality, and supplier development, this position plays an important role in maintaining strong quality systems, supporting continuous improvement, and gaining hands-on experience in a complex manufacturing environment.

Requirements

• Associates degree required. Bachelor’s degree or working towards a bachelor’s degree is highly preferred.
• Solid computer skills and communication skills required.
• Knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within Engineering.

Nice To Haves

• Working knowledge of product line(s) and engineering design principles preferred.
• Experience with engineering change systems (e.g. Axalant) preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage supplier quality issues including scrap, disposition, chargebacks, and coordination with SQE/SDE teams.
• Conduct daily MRB review and disposition of RMA materials, ensuring proper defect identification and part classification (raw, machined, assembled).
• Process SAP transactions for scrap, supplier chargebacks, and generate the monthly Supplier X2 report.
• Investigate supplier-related issues on the production floor, including documentation, traceability, and supplier communication.
• Coordinate and manage supplier sorting activities at the plant or warehouse when quality issues arise.
• Support warehouse operations with supplier shipment issues such as labeling errors or damaged materials.
• Track and manage supplier quality requirements including annual layouts, CQI assessments, and 8D corrective actions.
• Support supplier launches and changes through APQP activities, PTR trials, and engineering investigations of dimensional or material concerns.

Benefits

• Annual Incentive Plan
• Paid Time Off
• 401k Plan
• Health Care Benefits
• Paid Holidays
• A supportive, collaborative team environment
• A strong diversity culture
• Supportive Employee Groups and community outreach activities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees