Lead Supplier Development Engineer

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Alabama, +3 more states.

📋 Description

• Effectively communicate, interpret, and translate intricate technical data packages and drawing requirements for suppliers.

• Lead supplier interactions to evaluate manufacturing capabilities, capacity, opportunities, and technical risks.

• Oversee the resolution of nonconforming product issues, including guiding Material Review Board activities to determine the disposition of hardware.

• Implement root cause analysis, corrective actions, and preventive measures to address quality issues and enhance supplier processes.

• Manage requests for changes in supplier products and processes, especially during production ramp-up.

• Conduct technical evaluations of supplier proposals to support cost and price assessments.

• Collaborate with Design, Project, Manufacturing Engineering, Supplier Quality, and Subcontracts teams on technical matters impacting yield, quality, and timelines.

• Report on supplier technical health, risks, and performance metrics to internal stakeholders.

• Assist in the development of new products and processes while executing operational plans that yield measurable business outcomes.

• Act as the primary technical liaison between internal engineering teams and key suppliers involved in major defense programs.

• Mentor and guide suppliers along with cross-functional teams.

⛳️ Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 9 years of relevant experience.

• Graduate degree with at least 7 years of pertinent experience.

• In the absence of a degree, a minimum of 13 years of related experience is required.

• Advanced problem-solving capabilities utilizing DMAIC, 8D, Ishikawa, 5 Whys, and Root Cause and Corrective Action (RCCA) methodologies.

• Proficient in engineering software and possess advanced skills in Microsoft Office 365.

• Familiarity with composites, high-temperature/refractory materials, elastomers, and Thermal Protection Systems (TPS).

• Strong understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).

• Capability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, as necessary.

• Preferred: Lean Green Belt or Six Sigma Black Belt certification.

• Preferred: Direct experience with Solid Rocket Motor (SRM) components, Divert and Attitude Control Systems (DACS), or missile defense systems.

• Preferred: Master’s degree in Engineering Management or a related field.

• Willingness to travel 25%–75% for fieldwork.

• Exceptional communication skills with the ability to prepare comprehensive supplier health reports and present technical findings.

• Competence in organizing and leading technical discussions, working sessions, and continuous improvement initiatives.

🏝️ Benefits

• Health and disability insurance.

• 401(k) match.

• Flexible spending accounts.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

• Education assistance.

• Parental leave.

• Paid time off.

• Company-paid holidays.

• 9/80 schedule with every other Friday off.