Supplier Quality Engineer - Composites

Responsibilities

• Investigate supplier nonconformance's such as voids, delamination, resin-rich/lean areas, cosmetic defects, or dimensional deviations.
• Lead structured problem-solving using methods such as 8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagrams, and FMEA to identify root causes and drive effective corrective and preventive actions.
• Verify corrective action effectiveness through follow-up inspections and process audits.
• Validate and monitor supplier processes for composite part fabrication, including mold preparation, release application, and surface integrity.
• Ensure supplier adherence to Saronic workmanship and composite quality standards.
• Plan and conduct supplier quality audits and process assessments for composite manufacturing operations.
• Evaluate compliance with relevant quality management standards (e.g., ISO 9001, AS9100) and marine composite best practices.
• Track supplier performance via scorecards (defect rates, on-time delivery, rework trends) and partner with suppliers to close quality gaps.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives and verify corrective action completion.
• Maintain detailed records of supplier audits, inspection results, corrective actions, and quality trends.
• Develop and deliver regular reports on supplier quality metrics and improvement status to management and cross-functional teams.
• Work closely with engineering, procurement, and production teams to ensure material specifications, design requirements, and supplier capabilities are aligned.
• Provide technical guidance on composite layup strategies, bonding processes, and finishing methods.
• Support design for manufacturability (DFM) and quality (DFQ) reviews.
• Train internal and supplier personnel on composite quality standards, inspection techniques, and defect prevention.
• Lead or support Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen projects targeting improved composite process repeatability, reduced scrap, and enhanced material utilization.
• Collaborate with suppliers to implement standard work, visual controls, and other improved processes.
• Identify potential risks in supplier quality or process capability and develop mitigation strategies.
• Ensure supplier adherence to Saronic’s material qualification, traceability, and documentation standards.
• Support compliance with applicable defense and marine quality requirements.
• Participate in the evaluation and qualification of new composite suppliers.
• Conduct audits and first article inspections to ensure new suppliers meet Saronic’s standards for consistency, repeatability, and documentation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Materials Science, Manufacturing, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 3+ years of experience in supplier quality, composites manufacturing, or marine production.
• Strong understanding of open-mold composite manufacturing methods (hand layup, spray-up, vacuum infusion).
• Familiarity with marine composite materials such as fiberglass, carbon fiber, core materials, resins, and gelcoats.
• Knowledge of quality management systems and methodologies (ISO 9001, AS9100, APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans).
• Demonstrated experience with supplier audits, process validation, and root cause analysis (8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone).
• Proficiency in SPC, inspection techniques, and data-driven quality metrics.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills for supplier and cross-functional engagement.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with ERP or QMS software (SAP, Oracle, etc.).
• Ability to travel to supplier sites as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with advanced composite manufacturing methods (e.g., prepreg layup, autoclave, oven-cure, resin transfer molding).
• Certification in Quality or Supplier Management (CQE, Six Sigma Green/Black Belt, or similar).
• Experience in a regulated or defense-related industry (aerospace, marine, defense).
• Working knowledge of NADCAP, ASTM standards, or MIL-STD composite quality requirements.