Supplier Quality Engineer

Simmonds Precision • Vergennes, VT

6h

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) with deep
expertise in electrical systems and circuit card assembly (CCA) within the
aerospace industry. This role is responsible for ensuring suppliers meet
stringent aerospace quality, reliability, and regulatory requirements. The SQE
will drive supplier qualification, oversee compliance to industry standards,
support work transfers, and lead resolution of complex technical and quality
issues related to electronic assemblies.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related technical field.
• 5–10+ years of experience in supplier quality, manufacturing, or quality engineering within the aerospace or defense industry.
• Proven experience with PCB/CCA manufacturing in high-reliability environments (Class 3 or space-grade preferred).
• Strong knowledge of PCB fabrication, SMT/THT assembly, conformal coating, and environmental/qualification testing.
• Expertise in IPC standards (IPC-A-610 Class 3, IPC-J-STD-001, IPC-7711/7721).
• Familiarity with aerospace standards: AS9100, AS9102 (FAI), AS5553 (counterfeit mitigation).
• Experience with inspection and test methods: AOI, AXI, ICT, flying probe, functional testing.
• Ability to read and analyze complex engineering drawings and electrical documentation.
• Proficiency in root cause analysis, statistical methods, FMEA, control plans, and SPC.
• Experience with quality systems and audit processes.
• Strong problem-solving skills with a data-driven mindset.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to influence suppliers and drive accountability.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally (up to 30–50%) to supplier sites.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with space, avionics, or mission-critical aerospace systems.
• Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification.
• Experience working with global contract manufacturers and electronics suppliers.
• Knowledge of thermal management, vibration/shock reliability, and harsh environment electronics.

Responsibilities

• Lead qualification and approval of suppliers for electrical components, PCB fabrication, and CCA manufacturing.
• Conduct on-site and remote audits to ensure compliance with aerospace standards (e.g., AS9100, NADCAP where applicable).
• Evaluate supplier manufacturing processes including SMT, through-hole assembly, conformal coating, and environmental testing.
• Provide subject matter expertise in PCB fabrication, high-reliability soldering, and electronics assembly processes.
• Ensure compliance to IPC standards (IPC-A-610 Class 3, IPC-J-STD-001, etc) and customer-specific aerospace requirements.
• Lead investigations into supplier-related failures and nonconformances using structured problem-solving methodologies (8D, RCCA, FMEA).
• Drive containment, corrective, and preventive actions (CAPA) to closure with suppliers.
• Ensure effective implementation of corrective actions and verify long-term effectiveness.
• Monitor supplier performance metrics (PPM, OTD, yield, escapes) and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Coach suppliers on best practices for high-reliability electronics manufacturing and quality systems.
• Lead supplier improvement projects focused on yield enhancement, defect reduction, and process capability.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level