Supplier Quality Management Development Engineer

Schaeffler • Fort Mill, SC, SC

9d

About The Position

The Supplier Quality Management Development Engineer supports the strategic development and management of the supplier portfolio to ensure consistent quality and high technological standards. The role contributes to global supplier strategy while incorporating regional considerations and collaborating with the purchasing counterpart. It also supports sourcing decisions, supplier scouting, onboarding, risk monitoring, supplier evaluation, and supplier development initiatives.

The position works with suppliers and internal teams to assess performance, address quality issues, track corrective actions, and identify opportunities to improve supplier technology and performance. It also participates in task forces addressing escalated supplier issues and supports quality-related supplier negotiations and documentation.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality, or a related field, or at least 5 years of experience in quality or supplier quality roles within the automotive or industrial sector in lieu of a degree.
• At least 5 years of experience in project management focused on quality, supplier quality, or a comparable role in manufacturing or engineering environments.
• Strong knowledge of quality management standards such as ISO 9001, IATF 16949, and AS 9100.
• Solid command of quality core tools and methods, such as 8D, APQP, PPAP, FMEA, SPC, MSA, Control Plan, 5S, Lean Production, and VDA equivalents.
• Confident communication skills and an analytical, structured, and team-oriented working style, with flexibility, assertiveness, and a strong sense of accountability.
• External applicants must be authorized to work in the US without an employment visa or other sponsorship.

Responsibilities

• Drive strategic development of the supplier portfolio to secure consistent quality and a high technological standard.
• Track and report key KPIs/PIs regularly and initiate escalation processes when needed.
• Contribute to global supplier strategy by incorporating regional specifics and working closely with the purchasing counterpart.
• Support supplier portfolio management and recommend suppliers for sourcing councils based on quality, technology performance, and supplier potential.
• Assist purchasing with supplier scouting to meet future business needs.
• Plan and conduct supplier initial assessments and follow up on development actions required for approval and onboarding.
• Monitor supplier risks, carry out onsite assessments, and ensure follow-up actions are implemented and tracked.
• Initiate and follow up on actions based on quality indicators, and determine whether supplier development programs such as SIP are appropriate.
• Support supplier evaluation by communicating results, clarifying methodology, and defining suitable actions when needed.
• Participate in task force actions for escalated supplier issues.
• Support negotiations of quality-related supplier contracts and documents.
• Identify opportunities to develop supplier technology and improve performance.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• 401(k) matching contributions up to 6%.
• Skill development workshops and ongoing learning and development programs.
• Access to the Schaeffler Academy’s learning and training offering.
• Wellness programs and resources supporting physical, mental, and emotional health.

What This Job Offers

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