Supplier Quality Development Engineer

Protolabs•Brooklyn Park, MN

6d•$69,500 - $92,700

About The Position

The Supplier Quality Development Engineer is responsible for the supplier quality development activities in USA and Mexico. This role involves performing manufacturing partner (MP) audits, supporting MPs in problem-solving activities, training MPs on quality tools, driving continuous improvement projects with MPs, reviewing/approving PPAP documents, and supporting MPs on complex projects. The SQDE ensures that the quality requirements of Protolabs Network (PLN) are understood throughout the supply chain and supports compliance-related activities. Additionally, they provide support to MPs and the sales team in fulfilling quality documentation requirements for orders and improving the efficiency of the order intake process related to quality review and requirements. This role involves working closely with the Supply Chain Teams to source, select, and qualify new suppliers, as well as supporting their onboarding process in accordance with PLN standards. The SQDE will monitor and proactively drive supplier performance and maturation, focusing on quality targets and problem-solving. Additionally, they will identify and deploy the best manufacturing practices to ensure manufacturing consistency across the network.

Requirements

A Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering (Industrial, Manufacturing, or Mechanical), physical Science, or related field, from an accredited college or university
Understanding of Quality systems and practices in a manufacturing environment.
2+ years of experience in a similar role.
An analytical and risk-based mindset and data driven approach to quality management.
Experience in a regulated environment.
Ideally lead auditors for ISO 9001, AS9100 or ISO 13485.
Experience with CNC machining.
Experience with Injection Molding.

Nice To Haves

3DP, and/or Sheet metal experience is a big plus.

Responsibilities

Support internal and external certification audits, as well as support MP audits, to assess compliance and identify areas for improvement.
Follow up on audit findings and actions, ensuring they are adequately addressed and closed within the specified timelines.
Assist MPs and the sales team with orders that require quality documentation, ensuring that requirements are understood and fulfilled by the MPs.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to improve the current systems and processes, making the order intake process more efficient in relation to quality review and requirements.
Support customer quality & compliance surveys, corrective action requests etc.
Collaborate with the Supply Chain Teams to source, select, and qualify new suppliers, ensuring adherence to PLN standards and requirements.
Monitor and proactively drive supplier performance and maturation, focusing on capabilities, quality targets and problem-solving.
Develop suppliers by identifying and implementing manufacturing best practices to ensure consistency across the network.
Support the development of new capabilities, such as technologies, materials, inspection methodology, and post-processing options.
Design processes to effectively manage supplier relationships and performance in a scalable manner.
Monitor underperforming MPs closely and set clear improvement targets.
Make data driven recommendations for off-boarding MPs that fail to correct issues.
Benchmark and leverage best practices across the MP network.
Utilize an analytical mindset and data-driven approach to supplier management.
Travel of up to 30% to 50% is required for this role.