Supplier Quality Engineer - Equipment & Machines

About the role

The Supplier Quality Engineer supports Nextpower's Heavy Machinery (Truss Drivers, TMMs) and electrical balance of systems (eBOS) product lines. Key responsibilities include auditing and qualifying suppliers, implementing robust quality systems, driving PPAP and inspection requirements, validating gages and inspection tools, and leading data-driven process improvements using SPC methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Document audit results via a professional report that can be shared with financing partners
• Supporting supplier quality for electrical balance of systems (eBOS) for solar photovoltaic products
• Complete Quality requirements input into PPAPs, Critical Dimensions or aspects on prints, Inspection check sheet preparation, Measuring system plans, FAI process instructions and completion, MSA, Pre-production plan, production ramp up plan and sample inspections, Inline critical dimension/aspect checks, self-certification of suppliers
• Take ownership of and develop technical process improvement strategies at supplier facilities backed up by SPC data (Cp, CpK, P Chart, Xbar, etc.) to ensure compliance
• Maintain key performance indicators for supplier quality, such as early life failures, DPPMs, and RMA rate
• Own supplier performance results by monitoring, driving, and optimizing Inspection frequency based on DPPM outcome to ensure supplier quality compliance
• Lead solving critical supplier quality issues, including managing root cause/corrective action activities and resolving supplier failure, corrective actions, and preventive actions through regular meetings with suppliers
• Guide and mentor suppliers on improving their quality over time
• Implement the supplier scorecard to measure ongoing supplier performance
• Manage and drive relationships between Nextpower and suppliers regarding quality performance, trends, and all corrective actions

Requirements

• Experience working with Heavy Machinery and Equipment
• Bachelor’s degree in quality/manufacturing engineering in a related industry
• 5+ years of experience in quality engineering in a related industry
• Strong hands-on experience with welded structural assemblies (frames, structural steel, load-bearing weldments)
• A self-starter and a passion for making a real difference in a fast-growing company and industry
• Able to multi-task and support requests from multiple internal and external requestors
• An intimate understanding of Supplier Quality best practices
• Analytical skills using Excel and SPC tools (Minitab, etc)
• Versed in problem solving techniques
• Experience in auditing manufacturing facilities, or processes in accordance with ISO 9001 QMS
• Knowledge about GD&T tolerancing, AQL inspection, Zero defects philosophy
• Excellent judgment and creative problem-solving skills
• Strong project management, organizational skills, and keen attention to detail
• The ability to generate new ideas and follow through to completion
• Exceptional written, oral, interpersonal and presentations skills
• Excellent people skills, an upbeat and enthusiastic attitude
• Self-Driven, self-motivated and making responsible decisions
• Superior professionalism, judgment, and strong work ethic
• Great team players and able to adapt to work in multi-cultural environment with different departments

Benefits

Nextpower is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.