Supplier Development Engineer

Swagelok•Solon, OH

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Supplier Development Engineer collaborates with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Sourcing to manage supplier quality requirements and supplier development. The role focuses on supplier auditing, qualification, continuous improvement, and defect resolution, with primary responsibility for supplier quality across Swagelok operations for assigned commodities. The engineer develops supplier relationships; assesses, qualifies, and audits suppliers; manages audit findings and corrective actions; and drives improvements in supplier products, processes, and quality systems. The position also supports sourcing projects, supplier capability assessments, product and process validation, and internal teams that need expertise on supplied products. The role manages small to medium department-level projects and provides supplier training on engineering and quality principles. Work takes place in a normal office environment, with travel between locations in Ohio and Pennsylvania as needed. Occasional domestic or international travel may be required. The position requires operating standard office equipment, communicating with individuals and groups, maintaining regular punctual attendance, and meeting productivity standards.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, a technical field, or a quality-related field.
At least 2 years of experience in manufacturing process design and development, quality planning or engineering, and/or quality control supervision.
Strong computer skills, including basic Word, PowerPoint, and Project, and intermediate Excel skills.
Advanced statistical data analysis skills and working knowledge of statistical software such as NCSS, Statistica, or Minitab.
Strong knowledge of metrology and general mechanical inspection methods and procedures.
Proficiency in preventative control planning, process validation methods, disciplined problem solving, troubleshooting quality and manufacturing systems, and auditing.
Product knowledge and expertise within the assigned area.
Ability to travel between multiple locations in Ohio and Pennsylvania as needed.
Ability to communicate effectively in small and large groups and settings.
Ability to perform the essential job functions, maintain regular punctual attendance, and meet qualitative and quantitative productivity standards.

Nice To Haves

Advanced problem-solving training, such as SPC/statistical analysis or DOE.
5 or more years of relevant experience.
ASQ-CQE certification.
6–12 months of ISO/QS9000 implementation and/or auditing experience, or ASQ-CQA certification.
Advanced problem-solving experience, such as DOE or statistical analysis.
Familiarity with Total Quality and Lean Manufacturing concepts.

Responsibilities

Plan, organize, and manage supplier quality development and strategy activities.
Develop positive relationships with suppliers and represent Swagelok when interacting with supplier personnel, including executive management.
Audit existing suppliers through desk reviews of quality manuals and data sheets, site audits of processes and systems, and annual performance assessments.
Complete and communicate supplier quality system audit reports; manage corrective actions for audit findings and drive timely completion.
Perform supplier selection activities for potential suppliers, including desk audits, site visits, on-site audits, and related documentation.
Identify, drive, and influence supplier improvement activities to pursue perfect quality.
Initiate or facilitate resolution of problems related to Swagelok specifications or methods.
Participate in establishing and maintaining procedures, processes, and specifications for assigned commodities and suppliers.
Facilitate communication of specifications between Swagelok and suppliers.
Execute the Qualified Supplier Process program by providing training and approving supplier packages.
Coordinate gauge or process capability studies, first article inspections, validation plans, and evaluation requests as needed.
Provide technical input for strategic sourcing projects, including supplier capability assessments, specification reviews, project implementation, and part transitions.
Manage small to medium department-level projects to develop or improve systems and processes supporting Global Sourcing requirements and goals.
Train and develop suppliers in sound engineering and quality principles.
Provide internal support and serve as a resource on the performance, capability, application, and inspection methods for supplied products.
Participate in technical discussions with suppliers to identify and implement product and process improvements.
Solicit and include cross-functional participation from Swagelok when appropriate.