South Africa: Supplier Quality Engineer posted by Fempower Personnel

Our client, a global leader in the engineering and manufacturing sector, is seeking a highly experienced and proactive Supplier Quality Engineer. This pivotal role focuses on ensuring that the supply chain delivers superior quality products through robust processes, rigorous audits, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelors Degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in a quality discipline, with a strong focus on supplier quality
• Expert knowledge and practical experience in leading RCA using 8D, Ishikawa, and other quality tools
• Proven experience with PPAP, APQP, and conducting supplier audits
• Fully conversant with ISO quality systems and understanding of VDA6.3
• Experience with electronic component and assembly suppliers is highly advantageous
• Certified Quality Engineer (ASQ CQE) or similar certification is a strong plus
• A pragmatic, results-driven, and initiative-taking working style with strong influencing skills

Key Responsibilities:

• Supplier Development & Management: Lead quality activities at supplier facilities, including the development and management of supplier improvement plans to achieve quality performance targets
• Problem Solving & Root Cause Analysis: Perform in-depth Root Cause Analysis (RCA) for supplier-related defects using 8D, Ishikawa, and other quality tools. Ensure timely implementation of effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPA)
• Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP/PPAP): Manage all supplier PPAP activities, ensuring timely delivery and approval. Authorize the release of parts and production processes
• Supplier Audits & Qualification: Conduct regular supplier audits (including VDA6.3 principles) to assess and verify their capability to meet quality, cost, and delivery requirements. Lead the evaluation and qualification of new suppliers
• New Product Introduction (NPI): Actively participate in NPI projects, ensuring quality requirements are integrated from design through to manufacturing.
• Performance Monitoring: Create visit reports and KPIs, and input performance data into monitoring systems to track supplier achievement against commitments.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Work closely with Procurement, Logistics, and Incoming Goods Inspection to manage daily quality issues and conduct regular supplier evaluations and risk assessments