Senior Supplier Quality

Persimmon Technologies is a global leader in robotics and electric motor technology, specializing in vacuum environment robots for advanced semiconductor chip production. Our solutions are used by industry giants like Intel, TSMC, Samsung, and AMD, and are integral to the production processes of companies such as Apple, NVIDIA, and Tesla. Persimmon is also a pioneer in next-generation electric motor technology for electric vehicles and high-performance applications, and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Heavy Industries, Ltd. (SHI).

About the role

The Senior Supplier Quality Engineer serves as the key liaison between management and suppliers, ensuring the highest quality standards are met. This role collaborates closely with procurement, engineering, operations, and manufacturing teams to oversee supplier qualification, audits, compliance, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to a comprehensive supplier quality strategy aligned with business objectives
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate supplier quality initiatives into activities such as NPI and alternate sourcing
• Support a culture of quality excellence throughout the organization
• Establish robust processes for supplier selection, qualification, and ongoing assessment, including KPIs, monitoring defect rates, nonconformance reports (NCRs), and customer complaints
• Collaborate with suppliers to optimize processes and resolve quality issues promptly
• Participate in the end-to-end supplier lifecycle, from initial assessment to ongoing monitoring
• Conduct regular supplier audits, assessments, and performance evaluations
• Participate in the qualification of suppliers
• Conduct supplier audits, document findings, and monitor improvement and mitigation plans
• Assess process capabilities at suppliers for Critical to Quality features in Persimmon’s drawings
• Train suppliers on Persimmon’s quality expectations and guide them on root cause analysis
• Follow FAI requirements and enforce AQL sampling plans with suppliers
• Communicate with suppliers on critical quality-related issues and corrective actions
• Establish a "zero defect" mindset with suppliers
• Participate in Material Review Board (MRB) as required

Requirements

• 8+ years of experience in Quality Control, Supplier Quality Engineering, or Manufacturing
• Semiconductor industry experience is a plus
• Experience working under ISO 9001, ISO13485, IATF14949, or similar Quality Management Systems
• Experience in internal audits and/or supplier audits
• BA/BS degree in Mechanical Engineering or related sciences
• Relevant certifications such as Certified Supplier Quality Professional (CSQP), Certified Quality Auditor (CQA), or Six Sigma are a plus
• Onsite position, 5 days per week
• Frequent travel up to 35%, including local, domestic, and international destinations
• Work is primarily sedentary but may require standing, walking, grasping, and lifting/moving up to 40 pounds occasionally

Skills

• Basic understanding of Mechanical (GD&T) and Electromechanical schematic drawings
• Competence in Quality Tools such as 8D, 5-why, fishbone, and Kepner-Tregoe
• Knowledge of statistical process control (SPC) and process capability measures like Cp & Cpk
• Familiarity with Design for Manufacturability, Serviceability, and Cost Reduction practices
• Experience in Work Cell Machining and Milling is a plus
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite, especially Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
• Ability to maintain effective relations between the company and suppliers
• Ability to work simultaneously on multiple projects and adjust to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Familiarity with basic mechanical inspection instruments like Vernier Calipers and micrometers
• Ability to understand and decode CMM inspection reports
• Experience with Minitab or other statistical software is an advantage
• Experience with CAD tools like SolidWorks is helpful
• Demonstrated knowledge of method transfers and qualifications/validations
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Independent organizational skills and proven ability to conduct investigations, audits, and develop presentations analyzing complex data
• Well-organized with a natural ability to structure thoughts, communication, and work
• Ability to navigate through rapid growth and adapt to rapid change

Pay

The compensation range for this position is $120,000 to $140,000 per year. The actual pay offered will be determined by factors including the candidate’s relevant experience, skills, job-related knowledge, internal equity, and geographical location.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health benefits (medical, dental, and vision)
• Generous paid time off
• 100% company-paid short-term and long-term disability insurance
• 100% company-paid Basic life and AD&D insurance
• 401(k) plan with 5% company matching
• Commitment to professional development and career advancement