Supplier Quality Engineer, North America

Valmet•Appleton, WI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Supplier Quality Engineer ensures supplier quality excellence by managing the qualification, performance, and development of assigned category(ies) suppliers. This role works closely with Procurement to embed quality into supplier selection and project-based sourcing decisions, while proactively driving defect prevention, supplier capability building, and compliance with Valmet’s standards at the source. The company offers a challenging work environment that values innovation and suits development-minded people who enjoy working in a fast-paced and dynamic setting, including a generous wage and benefits package with a company-funded registered pension plan. Employment offers are contingent upon a background check.

Requirements

Good knowledge of supplier quality processes (APQP, Audits, NCR/CAPA, qualification)
Familiarity with manufacturing processes (e.g., casting, machining, welding, fabrication)
Competence in quality tools and techniques (8D, FMEA, Control Plan, SPC, root cause analysis)
Understanding of ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001 and related QHSE standards
Proficiency in interpreting technical drawings and quality specifications
Ability to collaborate across functions (Procurement, Assurance, Engineering, Projects) and with suppliers
Strong communication, problem-solving, and follow-through skills
Technical degree in Mechanical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering (or equivalent technical field)
At least 3 years of experience in supplier quality, manufacturing, or industrial quality assurance roles
Hands-on experience with supplier audits, inspections, and qualification activities

Nice To Haves

Certification in Lean Six Sigma is a plus
Experience in capital projects or low-volume/high-complexity production environments preferred
Exposure to project-based procurement, customer-facing quality, or field quality is a plus

Responsibilities

Collaborate with procurement during supplier selection and qualification, providing input on quality risks, capabilities, and technical compliance.
Lead supplier qualification processes, including audits, documentation reviews, and first article inspections, ensuring readiness for project deliveries.
Act as the primary supplier quality contact for the assigned category(ies)/projects, managing supplier quality and punctuality performance.
Coordinate with Procurement to embed quality expectations in supplier agreements and onboarding processes.
Drive timely resolution of supplier quality issues through root cause analysis (RCA) and corrective/preventive actions (CAPA).
Conduct supplier visits, process audits, and Gemba walks to verify compliance and enable proactive risk mitigation and explore development opportunities.
Support Procurement with supplier claim management activities, validating cost of poor quality (COPQ).
Support supplier coaching on quality tools and practices to foster self-inspection, problem-solving, LEAN, and capability development.
Contribute to supplier scorecards and performance reviews with data-driven insights for continuous improvement and escalation when needed.