Supplier Quality Engineer

Rolls-Royce•Aiken, SC

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Associate Supplier Quality Engineer (ASQE) to join our Supplier Quality team. In this role, you will play a key part in ensuring that purchased components and assemblies meet all quality, performance, and regulatory requirements. You will actively support supplier development and operational excellence initiatives, with a core focus on assisting with the 2-Cycle launch and executing Production Part Approval Processes (PPAPs) for legacy products. The ideal candidate will bring a foundational understanding of quality engineering principles, supplier process audits, PPAP execution, and root cause analysis. This position requires close collaboration with suppliers, procurement, engineering, and manufacturing teams to help drive defect reduction, improve process capability, and ensure the timely resolution of supplier quality issues from development through serial production. As a growing member of the team, you will collaborate closely with senior engineers, participate in design reviews, and work alongside Purchasing to help monitor and ensure our supply base consistently meets rigorous engineering specifications.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Materials, or Metallurgy Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
0 to 3 years of experience in engineering, manufacturing, or quality functions (relevant internships, co-ops, or senior design project experience will be considered, Masters Preferred).
Foundational ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical specifications.
Exposure to or basic understanding of the Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) and quality planning concepts.
Hands-on familiarity or exposure to precision measurement tools (experience or exposure to CMM and/or FARO arm software/hardware is a strong plus).
Must be willing to travel to supplier and customer sites as required.
Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S without sponsorship. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.

Nice To Haves

Master's Degree
Prior experience or coursework focused on translating engineering drawings and specifications into quality or production plans.
Familiarity with engine components (e.g., cylinder heads, blocks, housings) and basic understanding of foundry/casting processes.
Working knowledge of Statistical Process Control (SPC) and its application in a manufacturing environment.
Strong foundational knowledge of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) and familiarity with precision hand tools and gauges.
Understanding of various manufacturing processes (machining, assembly, or casting).
Highly motivated self-starter with the ability to manage tasks effectively and seek guidance when needed.
Effective written and verbal communication skills for internal reporting and supplier interaction.
Analytical mindset with a focus on problem-solving and root-cause identification (e.g., exposure to 8D, 5-Why, or Fishbone diagrams).
Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional team environment (Engineering, Purchasing, and Manufacturing).
Willingness to learn and support the implementation of supplier quality and continuous improvement initiatives.
Basic interest or exposure to 2-cycle or large-bore diesel engines (S2000, S4000).
Basic knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles (e.g., 5S, Kaizen).
Exposure to SAP or similar Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems is a plus.
Interest in obtaining Auditor certification (e.g., ISO 9001) in the future.
Ability to lift 30lb minimum without assistance and navigate a manufacturing floor.
Proficient with PC applications, particularly Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, and Word).

Responsibilities

Review and contribute to Quality technical specifications and requirements for S4000 & 2-Cycle components (including global sourcing), collaborating with Engineering, Suppliers, and Senior SQEs.
Actively develop competency in the quality of procurement and supply of materials/products related to diesel engine manufacturing and development.
Utilize precision measurement equipment, including CMM and/or FARO arm technology, to measure parts, verify dimensions against engineering drawings, and validate supplier data.
Collaborate with suppliers to clarify specific quality requirements and standards; assist in the implementation of inspection, verification, qualification, and statistical process control methods.
Support suppliers in achieving part certification compliance with engineering drawings, including legacy specifications.
Execute and process the Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) for Production and/or Aftersales supplied parts.
Assist in maintaining and coordinating the supplier audit schedule to ensure designated suppliers are audited regularly for ISO-9001 compliance, process control capabilities, and quality standards.
Participate in and support supplier audits to determine compliance with safety, emission, and control characteristics.
Support deep-dive audits and supplier workshops aimed at improving Quality Performance and Purchasing metrics.
Coordinate and gather data for Field Corrective Actions, helping to track resolution progress.
Track, record, and analyze failure trends; assist in root cause analysis, help identify issues, and recommend corrective actions to the team.
Support containment activities (including physical sorting and inspection, as well as systemic holds) to ensure only products conforming to Rolls-Royce Solutions America quality standards are available to customers.
Assist in coordinating qualification testing for the operation and performance of equipment, engine components, and systems.
Work alongside the Purchasing team in new source development and participate proactively in a cross-functional commodity team environment.
Draft and review technical quality documents, audit reports, plans, and procedures under senior guidance.
Adhere to and maintain Quality Assurance Programs and procedures to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
Stay informed of changing specifications, regulations, and industry standards.
Monitor and manage the accuracy of inventory currently on quality hold.
Participate in continuous improvement projects to help maintain and improve quality capabilities.
Promote a compliance culture in the area of responsibility and live the letter and the spirit of the Rolls-Royce Solutions America Integrity Code.
Perform special projects and operational tasks as required.