Supplier Quality Management Development Engineer

Schaeffler•Auburn Hills, MI

About The Position

The Supplier Quality Management Development Engineer drives the strategic development of the supplier portfolio to support consistent quality and high technological standards. The role contributes to global supplier strategy, supports supplier portfolio management and sourcing decisions, and works with purchasing to scout suppliers for future business needs. The position includes planning and conducting initial supplier assessments, monitoring supplier risks, performing onsite assessments, and ensuring follow-up actions are implemented and tracked. The engineer uses quality indicators and supplier evaluations to recommend development programs and corrective actions, and supports task forces addressing escalated supplier issues. The role also helps develop supplier technology and performance, supports quality-related supplier negotiations and documentation, and requires domestic and international travel to Schaeffler or supplier sites, up to 25%.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in an engineering-related field.
3–5 years of working experience.
Proven experience as a Supplier Quality Development Engineer or in a similar role.
Strong understanding of quality assurance processes and techniques, including APQP and PPAP.
Exceptional problem-solving and analytical skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and suppliers.
Experience in supplier evaluation and corrective action management.
Willingness to travel domestically and internationally up to 25%.

Responsibilities

Drive the 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 PUR counterpart.
Support supplier portfolio management, including recommendations for sourcing councils based on quality, technology performance, and supplier potential.
Assist purchasing in supplier scouting to meet future business needs.
Plan and conduct supplier initial assessments, including follow-up of development actions required for approval and onboarding.
Monitor supplier risks, conduct onsite assessments, and ensure follow-up actions are implemented and tracked.
Initiate and follow up on actions based on quality indicators, and decide on supplier development programs such as SIP where 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.
Travel to Schaeffler or supplier sites, including domestic and international travel up to 25%.