Supplier Development Engineer II - Composites with Security Clearance

Duties/Responsibilities

• Lead development and performance improvement of key composite suppliers supporting UAV/aerospace production.
• Assess supplier capability in composite manufacturing processes (layup, curing, bonding, machining, finishing) and capacity to meet production demand.
• Drive resolution of high-impact quality and delivery issues, including execution of recovery plans.
• Lead root cause analysis for composite defects (e.g., porosity, delamination, cure variation) and ensure effective corrective actions.
• Conduct supplier audits and process reviews, including special processes and quality system compliance (e.g., NADCAP where applicable).
• Participates in negotiating terms and pricing with suppliers for purchase orders to ensure cost-effective and timely procurement.
• Provide hands-on technical guidance to improve yield, throughput, and process control.
• Support supplier readiness for new product introduction (NPI), including qualification, FAI, and ramp to rate.
• Partner with engineering, quality, and supply chain to manage risk, qualify new sources, and support make/buy decisions.
• Monitor supplier performance (quality, delivery, cost) and implement focused improvement actions.
• Serve as escalation point for critical supplier issues impacting production or program milestones.
• Mentor junior team members and support cross-functional execution.
• Prepare concise updates on supplier risk, performance, and recovery status for leadership.

Basic Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, supply chain, manufacturing, industrial technology, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience may be considered.
• 2+ years of progressive experience in supplier development, supplier quality, manufacturing engineering, operations, or supply chain in aerospace, defense, or other highly regulated manufacturing environments.
• Ability to obtain and maintain security clearance (U.S. citizenship required).
• Demonstrated experience leading supplier recovery, supplier improvement, and cross-functional resolution of complex supply chain issues.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, quality systems, process validation, and supplier risk management.
• Experience using data and KPIs to drive supplier accountability and performance improvement.
• Strong project leadership, influencing, and stakeholder management skills.
• Working knowledge of continuous improvement and root cause methodologies.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and ERP/MRP systems.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds at times, more with assistance.
• Work environment consists of various office and manufacturing settings with exposure to noise, varying temperatures, smells, and chemicals.
• Ability to traverse manufacturing facility.

Preferred Qualifications

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; ERP/MRP experience preferred.