Supplier Quality Specialist

Job Description : Supplier Quality Engineer – Machining & Secondary Processes Position Summary We are an aluminum investment casting foundry seeking a Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) with strong machining and secondary process expertise. This role will directly support our subcontract machining suppliers to ensure that machined castings and value-added processes (finishes, coatings, hardware assembly) meet customer and internal requirements. The SQE will serve as the company's machining subject matter expert (SME) while also ensuring supplier compliance to AS9100 and customer standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Supplier Scope Development

Interpret machined casting drawings and requirements.

Create clear, detailed scope of work packages for subcontract machining suppliers to quote.

Ensure bid packages reflect machining, finishing, coating, and hardware assembly requirements.

Review machining suppliers' process plans and methods for adequacy.

Verify supplier capability to machine castings to tolerance, including fixturing, tool selection, and process controls.

Evaluate finishing, coating, and hardware assembly steps for compliance with specifications.

Review AS9102 First Article Inspection (FAI) and PPAP submissions for accuracy, completeness, and compliance.

Confirm machining, coatings, and assembly processes meet customer and AS9100 requirements.

Partner with suppliers to resolve nonconformances and documentation gaps.

Lead and participate in SCAR investigations with subcontract machining suppliers.

Validate root cause, corrective, and preventive actions for machining, finishing, and assembly issues.

Drive supplier accountability and continuous improvement.

Act as the internal SME for machining, finishing, coatings, and hardware assembly.

Provide technical input during design reviews for manufacturability and downstream processes.

Mentor internal teams on machining / secondary process requirements and industry best practices.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering (or equivalent practical experience).

5+ years in machining, manufacturing engineering, or supplier quality (aerospace / defense preferred).

Strong knowledge of machining processes (milling, turning, drilling, fixturing, GD&T).

Familiarity with secondary processes including surface finishes, coatings, and hardware assembly.

Experience with AS9100, AS9102 FAI, and PPAP.

Proficiency in reading and interpreting complex aerospace casting drawings and specifications.

Skilled in root cause analysis, corrective action methods, and quality systems auditing.

Preferred Skills

Aerospace aluminum casting experience highly desired.

Working knowledge of special processes (NDT, heat treat, painting, anodizing, plating).

Experience managing subcontract machining / finishing suppliers.

ASQ CQE, Six Sigma, or Lean certification a plus.