Senior Supplier Quality Engineer – Structural

Scout Motors • Columbia, SC

2d • $120,000 - $145,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Supplier Quality Engineer – Structural is responsible for ensuring that all sourced metal components — including stamped parts, welded assemblies, and structural body elements — meet Scout Motors’ quality, timing, and delivery requirements. This position serves as a technical leader within the Supplier Quality organization, partnering with suppliers and cross-functional teams from nomination through SOP (Start of Production) and beyond. The role focuses on developing supplier capabilities, reducing launch risk, and driving long-term quality and manufacturing excellence within the structural commodities portfolio.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, Industrial, or related Engineering discipline preferred; candidates with 11 or more years of directly related professional experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• 7+ years of experience in Supplier Quality Engineering, ideally within automotive or high-volume metal manufacturing environments.
• Proven experience leading supplier quality development for structural or body-in-white components.
• Minimum of High School Diploma, GED or equivalent required for all roles at Scout Motors, Inc.
• Ability and willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required, approximately 40 - 70% of the time.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Passport required
• Strong understanding of press part, weld assembly, and structural body manufacturing processes.
• Advanced knowledge of AIAG Core Tools (APQP, PPAP, MSA, FMEA, Control Plans).
• Proficient in SPC, data analytics, and process capability analysis.
• Knowledge of quality management systems and regulatory standards (IATF 16949, ISO 9001).
• Skilled in problem-solving methodologies, root cause analysis, and risk-based decision making.
• Demonstrated ability to lead suppliers and cross-functional teams through complex technical challenges.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to influence at multiple organizational levels.
• High accountability, proactive mindset, and results-oriented leadership.
• Ability to coach and mentor others in supplier quality tools and practices.
• Adaptable, collaborative, and committed to Scout’s vision of redefining the future of the electric vehicle industry.

Nice To Haves

• Experience conducting or leading VDA 6.3 audits preferred.

Responsibilities

• Supplier Development & Evaluation
• Lead supplier capability assessments and technical reviews to ensure alignment with Scout Motors’ structural performance standards.
• Partner with Procurement and Engineering in supplier selection decisions, providing expert input on manufacturability, tooling feasibility, and process robustness.
• Mentor and support junior SQEs in evaluating supplier process readiness and audit execution.
• Advanced Quality Planning & Performance Management
• Oversee supplier quality planning using QPNI and VDA methodologies throughout development, launch, and series production phases.
• Validate supplier control plans, process flow diagrams, PFMEAs, and inspection methods to ensure effective risk mitigation.
• Track supplier quality metrics (PPM, delivery, NCRs, etc.) and lead cross-functional reviews to identify trends and improvement opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with IATF 16949, ISO 9001, and Scout’s internal quality system requirements.
• Problem Solving & Continuous Improvement
• Lead structured problem-solving efforts using 8D and root cause methodologies for critical supplier issues.
• Drive containment and recovery actions to protect program timing and product integrity.
• Facilitate supplier workshops to enhance understanding of quality tools, defect prevention, and process control.
• Champion continuous improvement initiatives leveraging Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles.
• Industrialization & Launch Readiness
• Ensure suppliers have capable processes, equipment, and measurement systems to achieve flawless launch execution.
• Manage Supplier PPAPs, process capability studies, and line trials to confirm readiness for mass production.
• Partner with Engineering and Manufacturing teams to assess design for manufacturability and process integration feasibility.
• Act as the escalation point for structural commodity issues during launch and production phases.
• Cross-Functional Leadership & Communication
• Collaborate closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Design to align supplier deliverables with program milestones.
• Serve as a key technical interface between suppliers and internal teams, ensuring clear communication of requirements and expectations.
• Lead technical discussions with supplier management to drive resolution and performance improvement.
• Support and guide change management processes related to structural component updates and tooling changes.

Benefits

• Competitive insurance including:
• Medical, dental, vision and income protection plans
• 401(k) program with:
• An employer match and immediate vesting
• Generous Paid Time Off including:
• 20 days planned PTO, as accrued
• 40 hours of unplanned PTO and 14 company or floating holidays, annually
• Up to 16 weeks of paid parental leave for biological and adoptive parents of all genders
• Paid leave for circumstances related to bereavement, jury duty, voting time, or military leave

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees