Sr. Supplier Quality Engineer

Leviton Manufacturing•Morganton, North Carolina

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Supplier Quality Engineer is responsible for ensuring the quality and performance of Leviton's supply chain by providing advanced supplier quality engineering support. This role participates in supplier selection activities, including supplier evaluations and quality system assessments, and collaborates with Buyers, Commodity Managers, Engineers, Product Managers, Project Managers, and Manufacturing personnel to qualify new suppliers and manage the quality of existing materials, components, and assemblies. Leveraging expertise in quality systems, supplier quality, and continuous improvement methodologies, this position drives supplier performance through data analysis, root cause investigations, corrective and preventive actions, and supplier development initiatives. The Senior Supplier Quality Engineer works closely with suppliers and internal stakeholders to resolve quality issues, reduce risk, and support product quality, reliability, and operational excellence.

Requirements

Advanced knowledge of quality engineering tools and methodologies, including SPC, DOE, Process Capability (Cp/Cpk), AQL, Root Cause Analysis, and statistical problem-solving techniques.
Strong understanding of APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans, First Article Inspection (FAI), and supplier quality management processes.
Experience applying Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies, including Poka-Yoke, SMED, and 5S.
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, GD&T, and quality requirements.
Proficiency in the use of precision measurement equipment, including calipers, micrometers, and CMMs.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify risks, evaluate data, and implement effective corrective and preventive actions.
Excellent communication, facilitation, presentation, and relationship management skills, with the ability to influence suppliers and lead cross-functional teams.
Ability to effectively communicate technical and quality requirements, prepare professional reports and business correspondence, and manage confidential information with discretion.
Minimum of 5 years Supplier Quality Engineering, Supplier Development or related quality experience within a manufacturing environment.
Experience managing supplier quality performance, conducting root cause investigations, and driving corrective and preventive actions across the supply base.
Experience utilizing ERP systems, preferably Oracle E-Business Suite (EBS)
Strong facilitation, interpersonal communication, and relationship management skills
Demonstrated ability to influence and collaborate effectively within a matrixed, cross-functional environment
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, PowerPoint, and Word
Experience planning and conducting supplier quality management system (QMS), process, and compliance audits
Experience working directly with suppliers to improve quality performance, process capability, and manufacturing effectiveness.

Nice To Haves

Certified ISO Lead Auditor certification, preferred
Six Sigma Green Belt or ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) certification, preferred
Knowledge and practical application of Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.

Responsibilities

Drive supplier quality performance to achieve or exceed established quality, delivery, and reliability metrics, including DPPM, OTD and other key performance indicators.
Lead complex supplier quality investigations utilizing structured problem-solving methodologies, including 8D, Root Cause Analysis, and corrective and preventive action processes to eliminate recurrence and improve supplier capability.
Develop and strengthen supplier quality relationships and performance through ongoing collaboration, communication, and site visits to drive continuous improvement and manufacturing excellence.
Provide quality leadership for new product and design changes, ensuring robust component qualification, first article approval, validation activities, and process readiness.
Evaluate supplier quality systems, manufacturing processes, and production performance through on-site audits, process assessments, and in-process and end-of-line source inspections.
Collaborate with suppliers to establish inspection strategies and quality control plans that support product quality, process capability, and compliance with Leviton specifications and critical characteristics.
Lead supplier development initiatives focused on process capability, defect prevention, waste reduction, and operational excellence through the application of Lean, Six Sigma, Error Proofing (Poka-Yoke), Measurement System Analysis, and related continuous improvement methodologies.
Deliver supplier training on quality systems, quality tools, and best practices to strengthen supplier capability and drive sustainable improvement.
Lead supplier quality performance and development initiatives to drive continuous improvement, enhance supplier capability, and achieve quality objectives.
Manage supplier quality risks to ensure continuity of supply and minimize the impact of quality issues on manufacturing operations and customer satisfaction.
Establish and execute short- and long-term supplier quality plans that align with business objectives and drive continuous improvement across the supply base.
Serve as the subject matter expert for assigned commodity categories and manufacturing processes, providing technical guidance to suppliers and internal stakeholders.
Foster a culture of quality excellence and continuous improvement by driving a "Zero Defects" mindset throughout the supplier base.
Serve as a strategic quality partner in supplier selection, qualification, and ongoing supplier management processes, conducting supplier assessments, quality system evaluations, and process audits to ensure compliance with Leviton requirements.