Supplier Quality Specialist

About Heliene

Heliene is a fast-paced entrepreneurial company growing rapidly in the renewable energy industry, with a mission to be part of the solution to climate challenges. We manufacture high-efficiency, high-quality solar modules on state-of-the-art production lines in Ontario, Canada; Minnesota, USA; and through global manufacturing partners. Customer First is our guiding principle and core value.

Why Join Heliene

We seek talented, motivated individuals to help shape the solar industry. Under an experienced leadership team, we offer growth opportunities, intellectual challenges, and a flexible, collaborative culture. The role provides a chance to contribute to a sustainable future while working in a dynamic environment.

About the Role

The Supplier Quality Specialist ensures Heliene maintains a robust quality system for raw materials and finished products supplied by third parties. This role involves supplier qualification, development, audits, and cross-functional collaboration with Supply Chain, Quality, Warehouse Operations, Engineering, and Product Engineering. Significant travel (approximately 35%) is required.

Responsibilities

• Lead supplier qualification and selection, including quality assessments.
• Develop, analyze, and report Quality Performance Metrics (e.g., Defect ppm) for internal and external stakeholders.
• Establish relationships with key suppliers to drive continuous improvement using Six Sigma, Lean, and root cause analysis (e.g., 8D, 5 Why, SPC).
• Conduct supplier design and process FMEAs, print/process reviews, Advanced Quality Planning, Control Plan development, and process capability studies.
• Participate in initial and sustaining part qualification, including Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) activities.
• Collaborate with internal teams to minimize total cost of ownership and price of non-conformance.
• Provide technical support to receiving inspection and define data requirements for supplier shipments.
• Develop Incoming Quality Inspection Criteria, Work Instructions, and training initiatives for Heliene staff.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Quality Engineering Manager.

Requirements

• BS in Engineering or Quality, with five years of supplier quality experience in manufacturing (preferably regulated industries).
• Strong experience with APQP, PPAP, and ISO 9001 or automotive certification.
• Understanding of GD&T, drawing/design controls, and inspection/test method development.
• Project management skills and ability to develop KPIs for data collection and analysis.
• Experience with supplier evaluations, audits (including traceability), and root cause analysis.
• Working knowledge of Lean and Six Sigma tools (DMAIC problem-solving).
• Ability to facilitate change, manage complex communications, and work under minimal supervision.
• Valid passport and ability to travel internationally (35% travel expected).
• Eligibility to work in the US or Canada, with ability to pass a background check and drug screening.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certifications: ASQ (CQE, CQA), UPPAP, BB/GB (Six Sigma), ISO, or PPM.
• Experience in PV module or renewable energy equipment manufacturing.

Pay

Salary range: $65,000 to $95,000 annually.

Benefits

• Employer-paid medical and dental insurance for employees (co-pay for spouse/dependents).
• Performance-based incentives.
• Life insurance.
• 401K match.
• Paid time off (PTO), sick days, and personal days.

Location: Rogers, MN or Mountain Iron, MN (on-site).