Supplier Development Engineer

Saronic Technologies is a leader in revolutionizing autonomy at sea, dedicated to developing state-of-the-art solutions that enhance maritime operations through autonomous and intelligent platforms. JOB OVERVIEW A technical supply chain role focused on improving supplier performance in support of Saronic's autonomous surface vessel programs for the Department of Defense. The SDE drives continuous improvement, fosters supplier relationships, and ensures quality and output requirements are embedded throughout the supply base — from new product launches to ongoing performance management. RESPONSIBILITIES - Partner with suppliers to improve their quality systems, processes, and capabilities. - Provide technical support and guidance to suppliers on quality-related issues, promoting continuous improvement and ensuring alignment with Saronic's standards. - Conduct supplier audits, inspections, and quality assessments. - Participate in and drive continuous improvement projects aimed at enhancing supplier quality, reducing defects, and improving overall supply chain performance. - Utilize Six Sigma, Lean, and Kaizen tools to identify and eliminate inefficiencies across the supply base. - Apply statistical tools and industry-standard methodologies including DOE (Design of Experiments) and FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis). - Lead root cause analysis and corrective action processes using 8D, 5 Whys, and Fishbone Diagram methodologies. - Resolve supplier non-conformances and drive timely closure of corrective action plans. - Collaborate with suppliers on process improvements and technical assessments. - Work cross-functionally with procurement, quality, manufacturing, and design engineering teams to align supplier capabilities with program requirements - Support the evaluation and qualification of new suppliers, ensuring that their quality management systems and processes meet the company’s standards. Participate in supplier selection, quality assessments, and qualification audits to ensure fit with organizational requirements. - Identify potential risks in the supply chain related to product quality or supplier performance. Work with suppliers and internal teams to develop and implement risk mitigation strategies. Ensure compliance with industry regulations, certifications, and company quality standards (ISO, TS16949, etc.). - Skillsets in SQBR, Supplier vetting, Capability and Capacity assessments, financial health and credit report assessments, supplier maturity assessments, supplier scorecards/dashboards, task tracking, supplier development action inputs to the supplier, proactive follow-through - Strength in working alone and leading supplier visits/assessments QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor’s degree in engineering, manufacturing, quality or a related field (or equivalent work experience). - 3+ years of experience in quality engineering, supplier quality, or related roles, ideally in a manufacturing or production environment. - Strong knowledge of quality standards and methodologies (ISO 9001, ISO/TS 16949, APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans, etc.). - Experience conducting supplier audits, inspections, and quality assessments. - Proficiency in root cause analysis and problem-solving techniques (e.g., 8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagram, etc.). - Familiarity with quality management systems (QMS) and continuous improvement methodologies (Six Sigma, Lean). - Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively 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, etc.). - Ability to travel to supplier sites as needed. - Certification in quality or supplier management (e.g., CQE, Six Sigma Green/Black Belt, or similar). - Experience in a global supply chain or working with international suppliers. - Knowledge of advan