Supplier Quality Engineering Manager

About Us

Det-Tronics is a $200M global technology leader in industrial life safety solutions, specializing in high-end flame and gas detection and automation control systems. As part of Spectrum Safety Solutions with 1,700 employees across 20+ countries, we serve mission-critical environments in oil & gas, clean energy, marine, and infrastructure. Backed by Sentinel Capital Partners, we're driving innovation and growth across our portfolio.

The Opportunity

Det-Tronics is seeking an experienced, process-driven Supplier Quality Engineering (SQE) Manager to own and lead the supplier quality management system and SQE team, ensuring robust supplier performance across a global, safety-critical supply base. This role partners closely with Supply Chain, Engineering, and Operations to qualify, develop, and continuously improve suppliers, support new product introductions, and drive measurable reductions in supplier-related risk and Cost of Poor Quality. The SQE Leader acts as a visible quality champion, shifting the organization from reactive issue management to a proactive, prevention-focused quality culture.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead supplier quality management system and Supplier Quality Engineering team, along with supplier issue monitoring, triaging and resolution process.
• Closely collaborate with the Supply Chain team to develop and manage robust supply base.
• Lead regularly scheduled Supplier Quality meetings, supplier issue resolution, and drive continuous improvement.
• Partner with Supply Chain for Supplier sourcing, qualification, selection, and development.
• Work closely with Design Engineering, Supply Chain, and Operations on all stages of New Product Development, ensuring materials readiness at product launch.
• Develop and maintain Supplier Scorecard, track KPIs, and work with suppliers on action plans to improve performance.
• Lead technical reviews of new components and existing components with Supplier and Engineering Audit and assess suppliers’ processes on regular basis, which may include (~20-25%) travel.
• Act as a quality leader in organization.
• Participate as a member of the Material Review Board (MRB).
• Support outside certification audits (e.g., ISO 9001:2015).
• Advocate and promote process focused approach for all functions.
• Enable culture change from a reactive approach to Quality to a proactive approach to Quality.
• Help drive reduction in Det-Tronics Cost of Poor Quality.
• Hold self-accountable to achieving goals and standards.

What You Bring

• Required Qualifications:
• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing/ Industrial Engineering, or related Technical Field
• 5+ years or more experience in Manufacturing Industries as senior level Supplier Quality Engineering (SQE) responsibility, with preferably managing/ leading a team
• Preferred Qualifications:
• Leadership and people management experience in a manufacturing or quality environment
• Strong knowledge of statistical analysis (capability analysis, MSA) and GD&T
• Experience with nonconforming material control (MRB), SCAR, and CAPA
• Working knowledge of APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans, and DFM reviews
• Experience managing supplier quality KPIs, including DPPM and Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ)
• Familiarity with AIAG standards and process audits
• Proficiency in Excel, Power BI, and Minitab
• Leverage Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt preferred
• Experience partnering with Purchasing/Sourcing and working within MRP systems (JD Edwards preferred)
• Strong project leadership, communication, organization, and time-management skills
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams, meet deadlines under pressure, and drive continuous improvement
• Demonstrated commitment to safety, quality, and compliance

Why Join Us?

Work with a globally respected brand in life safety
Influence strategic decisions at the executive level
Drive innovation and transformation in a high-growth environment
Enjoy development opportunities within a dynamic, private equity-backed company
Benefits at Det-Tronics include:
Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans with company contributions
Financial Security: 401(k) retirement plan with company match, life and disability insurance
Time Off: Generous paid time off (PTO), holidays, and flexible scheduling options
Professional Growth: Career development programs, training opportunities, and tuition reimbursement
Employee Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness resources, and global mobility support
Ownership Culture: Participation in our Ownership Program, empowering employees to share in our success