Supplier Development Engineer

KSR•Southfield, MI

6d•$70,000 - $90,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Supplier Development Engineer is a key role within our organization, focused on building and strengthening relationships with our global supplier network. This position is responsible for driving supplier performance, ensuring compliance with industry standards, and promoting continuous improvement in quality, delivery, cost, and sustainability. The role also involves close collaboration with internal teams such as Purchasing, Quality, and Engineering to align supplier capabilities with business objectives and support strategic initiatives.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field or equivalent experience.
Minimum 3 years of engineering experience in manufacturing, quality, or process engineering environments, including direct involvement with suppliers, quality systems, OEM launch experience and process improvement initiatives.
Experience in automotive or regulated manufacturing environments preferred.
Knowledge of IATF 16949 and ISO 14001 standards.

Nice To Haves

VDA 6.3 Lead Auditor Certification is an asset

Responsibilities

Maintain the supplier database, including surveys, qualification audits, surveillance audits, and performance tracking.
Assist Purchasing in supplier selection through qualification audits and performance evaluations.
Conduct supplier audits (process or product) as required to ensure quality and delivery commitments
Perform supplier risk assessments for new program/product launches and lead supplier APQP activities
Collaborate with suppliers on root cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions, ensuring timely containment and resolution of nonconformities.
Guide suppliers through change management processes to ensure compliance with KSR requirements.
Coordinate supplier PPAP submissions with the Supplier Quality, ensuring timely and accurate documentation.
Contribute to contingency planning for supplier management and risk mitigation.
Maintain effective communication with internal departments and stakeholders.
Promote and adhere to company policies and procedures outlined in KSR Quality and Supplier Handbook Manuals.
Provide training and development for new and existing suppliers on automotive standards and Customer Specific Requirements.
Develop new suppliers (mass production, tooling, and gauges) or improve performance for suppliers with low scorecard ratings.
Prioritize safety and comply with the Health and Safety Management System.
Support risk reduction, hazard identification, and continuous improvement efforts.
Ensure compliance with health, safety, and wellness legislation and KSR standards.
Uphold and adhere to the KSR Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct.
Promote the global Environmental Management System with a focus on footprint reduction, recycling, and resource efficiency.
Ensure compliance with environmental legislation and KSR standards.