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Saronic Technologies, founded in 2022 and headquartered in Austin, TX, is developing autonomous surface vessels for maritime defense applications. This Supplier Development Engineer role is a technical supply chain position focused on improving supplier performance and quality across Saronic's defense programs.
You will partner directly with suppliers to enhance their quality systems, processes, and capabilities. Key responsibilities include conducting supplier audits, inspections, and quality assessments; providing technical guidance on quality-related issues; and driving continuous improvement initiatives across the supply base. You'll utilize industry-standard methodologies including Six Sigma, Lean, Kaizen, Design of Experiments (DOE), and Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA). You'll lead root cause analysis using 8D, 5 Whys, and Fishbone Diagram techniques, and resolve supplier non-conformances with timely corrective action closure.
You'll work cross-functionally with procurement, quality, manufacturing, and design engineering teams to align supplier capabilities with program requirements. You'll support new supplier evaluation and qualification, ensuring their quality management systems meet company standards. You'll also identify supply chain risks related to product quality or supplier performance and develop mitigation strategies in collaboration with suppliers and internal teams.
Additional responsibilities include supplier vetting, capability and capacity assessments, financial health evaluations, supplier maturity assessments, scorecard development, and proactive follow-through on supplier development actions. You'll conduct supplier visits and assessments independently and lead improvement projects.
The role requires occasional travel to supplier sites. Physical demands are typical office-based work with occasional standing, walking, reaching, and lifting up to 20 pounds.
REQUIREMENTS:
- Bachelor's degree in engineering, manufacturing, quality, or related field (or equivalent work experience)
- 3+ years of experience in quality engineering, supplier quality, or related roles, ideally in manufacturing or production environments
- Strong knowledge of quality standards and methodologies: ISO 9001, ISO/TS 16949, APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans
- Experience conducting supplier audits, inspections, and quality assessments
- Proficiency in root cause analysis and problem-solving techniques (8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagram)
- Familiarity with quality management systems (QMS) and continuous improvement methodologies (Six Sigma, Lean)
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills with ability to collaborate with suppliers and internal teams
- Strong analytical skills and attention to detail
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and familiarity with quality management software or ERP systems (SAP, Oracle)
- Ability to travel to supplier sites as needed
Preferred qualifications:
- Certification in quality or supplier management (CQE, Six Sigma Green/Black Belt, or similar)
- Experience in global supply chain or with international suppliers
- Knowledge of advanced product quality planning (APQP) and product lifecycle management (PLM)
- Experience in regulated industries (automotive, defense, aerospace, medical devices)
