The Supplier Quality Engineer supports supplier quality initiatives that enable the business to achieve its operational and strategic supplier quality objectives. This role partners with suppliers and cross-functional stakeholders to improve supplier performance, manufacturing processes, and product quality by applying quality engineering principles, industry standards, and continuous improvement methodologies. The Supplier Quality Engineer helps ensure suppliers consistently deliver products that meet customer, regulatory, and business requirements while driving operational excellence across the supply base.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with external suppliers, customers, and internal stakeholders including Purchasing, Manufacturing, Engineering, and Supply Chain to improve supplier quality and business outcomes.
Support supplier quality planning activities by applying Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP), Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG) Core Tools, and Cummins quality methodologies.
Evaluate and improve supplier manufacturing processes to enhance process capability, product quality, manufacturability, and operational performance.
Participate in supplier quality audits and, when qualified, lead low-complexity supplier audits to assess compliance with quality management systems, manufacturing standards, and customer requirements.
Investigate supplier quality issues using structured problem-solving methodologies, support root cause analysis, implement corrective and preventive actions, and verify the effectiveness of solutions.
Monitor supplier quality performance and analyze quality metrics to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for continuous improvement.
Support supplier development initiatives focused on improving manufacturing capability, reducing defects, enhancing process stability, and achieving Zero Defect performance.
Don't want to miss the next one?
Subscribe to daily email alerts for roles matching your interests.
Apply AIAG Core Tools including PPAP, DFMEA, PFMEA, Control Plans, SPC, MSA, and Source Release to validate supplier manufacturing processes and production readiness.
Participate in quality planning and supplier performance improvement projects across assigned suppliers, commodities, or product segments.
Support new product introduction activities by ensuring supplier readiness, process validation, and compliance with engineering and customer requirements.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives utilizing Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, statistical analysis, and data-driven decision-making.
Ensure supplier compliance with quality standards, regulatory requirements, and Cummins quality expectations.
Competencies
Supplier Quality Management
Supplier Performance Improvement
Supplier Quality Planning and Execution (APQP)
Supplier Auditing and Quality Management Systems
AIAG Core Tools (PPAP, DFMEA, PFMEA, Control Plans, SPC, MSA)
Manufacturing Process Design and Validation
Product and Process Quality Assurance
Supplier Product Reliability
Root Cause Analysis and Corrective Action
Problem Solving and Continuous Improvement
Statistical Analysis and Process Capability
Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T)
Engineering Drawing and Technical Requirement Interpretation
Measurement System Design and Validation
Quality Standards (ISO 9001:2015, IATF 16949)
Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma Methodologies
Communication and Stakeholder Management
Customer Focus
Cross-functional Collaboration
Quality Influence and Decision Making
Valuing Differences and Inclusive Collaboration
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related technical or scientific discipline is required.
Professional certifications in Quality, Lean, Six Sigma, or Supplier Quality are preferred.
Certification as a Quality Auditor or Lead Auditor is advantageous.
This position may require licensing for compliance with export controls or sanctions regulations.
Skills & Experience
Relevant experience in Supplier Quality Engineering, Quality Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Supplier Development, or a related technical discipline.
Working knowledge of supplier quality management principles and manufacturing processes.
Experience applying APQP and AIAG Core Tools including PPAP, DFMEA, PFMEA, Control Plans, SPC, and MSA.
Knowledge of quality management systems and standards, including ISO 9001:2015 and IATF 16949.
Experience participating in or conducting supplier quality audits.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with experience using structured root cause analysis methodologies.
Ability to interpret engineering drawings, technical specifications, and GD&T requirements.
Knowledge of manufacturing technologies, process validation, and measurement systems.
Experience using statistical methods to evaluate process performance and support quality improvement initiatives.
Strong communication, collaboration, and stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence cross-functional teams and external suppliers.
Experience working in a manufacturing, automotive, industrial, or heavy equipment environment is preferred.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and contribute effectively in a fast-paced, global organization.
Preference will be given to candidates experienced in aftermarket services, remanufacturing, transformation projects, and managing supply chain quality across the value chain.
Similar roles you might like
More openings like this one — take a look before you go.
