Supplier Development Engineer II - Composites

Platform Aerospace•Hollywood, MD

6d•$60,000 - $95,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Supplier Development Engineer II – Composites is an individual contributor responsible for improving performance and capability across the composite supply base supporting aerospace/UAV production. This role leads supplier assessments, drives resolution of critical issues, and ensures suppliers can meet quality, delivery, and scalability requirements for composite structures and components.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, supply chain, manufacturing, industrial technology, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience may be considered.
2+ years of progressive experience in supplier development, supplier quality, manufacturing engineering, operations, or supply chain in aerospace, defense, or other highly regulated manufacturing environments.
Ability to obtain and maintain security Clearance.
Demonstrated experience leading supplier recovery, supplier improvement, and cross-functional resolution of complex supply chain issues.
Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, quality systems, process validation, and supplier risk management.
Ability to interpret complex technical requirements, specifications, and production constraints.
Experience using data and KPIs to drive supplier accountability and performance improvement.
Strong project leadership, influencing, and stakeholder management skills.
Working knowledge of continuous improvement and root cause methodologies.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and ERP/MRP systems.
Ability to travel regularly to supplier locations, as needed.

Nice To Haves

Proficiency with Microsoft Office; ERP/MRP experience preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead development and performance improvement of key composite suppliers supporting UAV/aerospace production.
Assess supplier capability in composite manufacturing processes (layup, curing, bonding, machining, finishing) and capacity to meet production demand.
Drive resolution of high-impact quality and delivery issues, including execution of recovery plans.
Lead root cause analysis for composite defects (e.g., porosity, delamination, cure variation) and ensure effective corrective actions.
Conduct supplier audits and process reviews, including special processes and quality system compliance (e.g., NADCAP where applicable).
Participates in negotiating terms and pricing with suppliers for purchase orders to ensure cost-effective and timely procurement.
Provide hands-on technical guidance to improve yield, throughput, and process control.
Support supplier readiness for new product introduction (NPI), including qualification, FAI, and ramp to rate.
Partner with engineering, quality, and supply chain to manage risk, qualify new sources, and support make/buy decisions.
Monitor supplier performance (quality, delivery, cost) and implement focused improvement actions.
Serve as escalation point for critical supplier issues impacting production or program milestones.
Mentor junior team members and support cross-functional execution.
Prepare concise updates on supplier risk, performance, and recovery status for leadership.
Perform other duties as are necessary and/or required.