Supplier Quality Engineer

Role Purpose

The Supplier Quality Engineer will be a key contributor to ensuring the highest standards of material quality and supplier performance for our solar module manufacturing operations. This role goes beyond traditional quality oversight—it is about building strong partnerships with suppliers, sourcing new materials, and driving continuous improvement across the supply chain. The successful candidate will work closely with raw material vendors to qualify suppliers, develop quality standards, and resolve issues quickly and effectively. In addition, this position will play an active role in identifying and onboarding new suppliers, ensuring they meet stringent technical and compliance requirements. The role may involve travel to supplier sites to conduct audits, support development activities, and strengthen relationships that enable operational excellence in a fast-growing renewable energy environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage supplier quality processes including qualification, audits, and ongoing performance monitoring.
• Develop and implement supplier quality requirements, specifications, and standards.
• Review and approve supplier documentation such as PPAP, FMEA, control plans, and other quality deliverables.
• Drive supplier development initiatives, including corrective and preventive actions for nonconformances.
• Conduct root cause analysis and ensure timely resolution of supplier-related quality issues.
• Collaborate with suppliers and internal teams to implement continuous improvement initiatives.
• Track supplier KPIs, prepare performance reports, and communicate results to leadership.
• Partner with engineering and operations on material approvals, change management, and cost reduction initiatives.
• Support audits, certifications, and compliance requirements.
• Provide on-site supplier support as needed, including travel to supplier locations.
• Manage supplier claims, maintain the approved supplier list, and ensure proper documentation and archiving.

Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality, or related field required.
  
• 3–5 years of experience in supplier quality, manufacturing quality, or related field.
  
• Experience in solar, semiconductor, or electronics manufacturing preferred.
  
• Familiarity with ISO 9001, IATF 16949, and related quality management systems.
  
• Working knowledge of APQP, PPAP, SPC, FMEA, and root cause analysis tools.

Required Skills

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
  
• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting (Excel, Minitab or similar tools).
  
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications.
  

Soft Skills

• Strong communication and negotiation skills.
  
• Team-oriented and collaborative approach.
  
• Ability to work with international suppliers and cross-functional teams.
  
• Flexible, proactive, and detail-oriented in a fast-paced environment.