Supplier Quality Engineer
About The Position
RTCA is a precision aerospace and defense manufacturing group built on decades of hands-on machining expertise, with roots spanning more than 50 years. We support mission-critical commercial and government aerospace programs across North America through four U.S. Centers of Excellence operating as an integrated platform with 150+ CNC machines and a team of 250+ professionals. Unlike large organizations where roles can be narrow, RTCA offers hands-on ownership and real visibility – you understand how your work supports the team, the operation, and the end customer. Our flat structure allows employees to take initiative, grow their skills, and have their contributions recognized, while still providing the stability, advanced technology, and meaningful work of an established aerospace manufacturer. At RTCA, we believe in teamwork, excellence, and delivering with pride. One Team! One Mission! How You’ll Make an Impact: The Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) manages and develops the external supply base for precision machined aerospace and defense components (including Boeing programs). This is a cross-functional role spanning Quality, Purchasing, and Engineering—not a desk-only position. The SQE acts as an extension of the plant within the supplier network. Responsibilities include driving supplier performance in quality, delivery, cost, and responsiveness, with a focus on special processes (NDT, coatings, heat treat, etc.) and continuous improvement. The role requires comfort on the shop floor, at supplier sites, and with data-driven problem solving.
Requirements
- 5+ years experience in Supplier Quality, Manufacturing Engineering, or Quality Engineering and Aerospace or tightly regulated manufacturing environment.
- Strong knowledge of machined parts (CNC turning, milling, tight tolerance components) and Special processes (NDT, heat treat, plating, coatings.
- Familiarity with AS9100 quality systems and Boeing or major aerospace OEM requirements.
- Proven experience with: Root cause analysis (8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone) and Supplier audits and development.
- Ability to read and interpret Engineering drawings, GD&T, Specifications and contracts.
- Strong critical thinking and problem-solving capability
- High level of ownership and accountability
- Ability to influence without direct authority (supplier-facing role)
- Comfortable working the shop floor and in supplier facilities.
- Strong communication skills—can translate technical issues into actionable plans
- Willingness to travel to supplier locations (local and regional primarily)
Nice To Haves
- Experience working directly with NADCAP-approved processors
- Lean Manufacturing / Continuous Improvement background
- Six Sigma (Green Belt or higher)
- Experience supporting LTAs and supplier consolidation strategies
- ERP/MRP system familiarity (job shop or aerospace environment)
Responsibilities
- Own supplier quality performance metrics (PPM, OTD, turnaround time, escapes)
- Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions (8D, RCCA) with suppliers
- Conduct supplier audits (process, quality system, AS9100 alignment)
- Ensure compliance to customer and internal specifications (Boeing, NADCAP, etc.)
- Manage supplier approval, qualification, and ongoing performance reviews
- Partner with suppliers to improve: Lead times / turnaround Process capability and yield Cost competitiveness
- Drive Lean / CI initiatives within the supply base (flow, batching reduction, WIP control)
- Develop long-term supplier relationships and capacity strategies
- Support LTA (Long-Term Agreement) development in coordination with procurement
- Review and validate: Purchase orders vs. drawings/specifications Special process requirements and certifications
- Serve as a technical liaison between RTCA engineering and suppliers
- Assist in resolving day-to-day production and supplier issues impacting schedules
- Support new product introduction (NPI) and first article (FAI) activities
- Work closely with: Purchasing (supplier selection, negotiations, performance) Quality (internal/external escapes, audits) Engineering (process capability, manufacturability) Operations (delivery and schedule alignment)
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
- Choice of medical plan options, including a no-cost employee-only coverage plan
- HSA-eligible health plan with employer contributions
- Basic and supplemental life insurance
- Long-term disability coverage
- 401(k) plan with up to a 6% QACA company match
- Paid time off including vacation, sick time, and nine (9) paid company holidays
- Shift differentials for applicable off-shifts
- Discretionary bonus programs based on position and company performance
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
Number of Employees
1-10 employees
