Supplier Quality Engineer

Nammo Defense Systems Inc., a defense contractor, manufactures and supports shoulder-fired systems; energetic material solutions such as aircraft emergency escape systems, actuation devices, rocket motors, warheads, medium & large caliber ammunitions, mortar ammunition; and composite solutions including carbon fiber tubes and composite aero-structures.

At Nammo Defense Systems, we take seriously our core values of Precision, Dedication and Care. We are seeking a Supplier Quality Engineer to join our Quality team. This will be an on-site position.

Position Summary:

The Supplier Quality Engineer, (SQE), ensures supplying companies’ systems, processes and manufacturing capabilities meet the NDS design and business contractual requirements. This includes participation in the selection of Suppliers and qualification of parts, periodic supplier performance evaluation, supplier process validations, in addition to supporting the resolution of supplier quality issues, and auditing suppliers to ensure process conformance.

The SQE, conducts remote and onsite source inspections, attends supplier production readiness activities, and /or monitors completion of critical supplier readiness manufacturing activities, and accompanies supplier execution on various phases of manufacturing, spanning from tool or equipment qualification to process qualification and release to manufacturing. Witnesses and/or monitors the manufacturing of the first article and respective inspection, Reviews FAI data, and monitors supplier manufacturing quality performance throughout the manufacturing build.

Partner with the Supplier quality engineering and NDS Factory Quality, Program Quality, Manufacturing and Project Engineers in the immediate implementation of rapid countermeasures to mitigate risks of production delays or escape of non-conforming parts/components.

Establishes Supplier performance KPIs, conducts periodic supplier performance evaluations, prepares and publishes supplier performance reports and conducts periodic supplier quality reviews.

The strategic mission of the SQE is to drive a culture of “First-Time-Right and Every Time On-Time” with NDS Suppliers partners.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Assess potential new suppliers for technical, quality and manufacturing capabilities.
• Provide technical support for the qualification of components from a new supplier.
• Work with engineering and supply chain on the selection and qualification of suppliers
• Monitor Supplier manufacturing execution of FAI and conducts onsite or remote Source Inspections
• Perform and Evaluate First Article Inspections per the requirements of AS9102
• Develop and implement Receiving Inspection Quality Plans, (L.I.R, Lot Inspection Reports), in collaboration with Engineering, (Manufacturing, Program and Project).
• Review Receiving Quality inspection metrology including first Article inspection and prepare plans to minimize inspections by augmenting supplier responsibilities and capabilities
• Establish and conduct supplier audits/assessments (on-site or remote)
• Conduct supplier process audits with focus on compliance to standard work, process controls and mitigation of risks to quality.
• Develop and deploy supplier management and continuous improvement programs
• Resolve production (line fallout) due to supplier parts/materials and work with supplier on 8D corrective actions
• Evaluate the impact of non-conforming product and assess suppliers' corrective action robustness in order to ensure strong and permanent countermeasures
• Champion problem solving and root cause analysis activities with suppliers to eliminate recurrence of non-conformances and drive "First-Time-Right" mentality within the supply base.
• Utilize supplier Scorecards/metrics and analytical tools to quantify performance levels of individual suppliers and work with those suppliers to develop improvement plans to achieve quality performance goals
• Summarize supplier improvement metrics and conduct supplier improvement presentations and meetings as required.
• Support new product launches, ensuring compliance with established standards
• Perform on site reviews of FAI (First Article Inspection), or Source Inspection when required
• Communicate with vendors regularly to address any concerns and foster an environment that facilitates continual improvement in working relationships
• Support the business plan and drive supplier quality performance metrics (i.e. PPM, escapes/rejects, O.T.D etc.).
• Develop and implement Receiving Inspection Quality Plans, (L.I.R, Lot Inspection Reports), in collaboration with Engineering, (Manufacturing, Program and Project).
• Support Engineering design changes by developing and driving implementation and approval plans with the affected supplier.

Required Experience & Skills:

• MS/BS in Mechanical, Materials, Industrial or Physics engineering
• 5 to 10 years relevant experience in quality, manufacturing or project engineering
• A Professional Certification (ASQ-CQE/CQA) or equivalent RAB qualification preferred.
• AS9100D internal Quality Auditor certification
• Nadcap auditing experience (preferred)
• Experience with Lean Six Sigma Tools, (Green belt or Black belt preferred).
• Proficient in Statistical Methods
• Familiarity/Experience with Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP), Production Parts Approval Process, (PPAP), and process tools such as PFMEA and Control Plans.
• Practical experience with Lean Manufacturing and Lean Six Sigma Green / Black Belt certification from a recognized organization
• Deep understanding and hands on experience of factory, manufacturing process control, and quality systems
• Proficient experience in Product Production Line Validation, test, equipment, instrumentation and qualification of Mechanical and Fabricated products
• Experience and knowledge in high mix low volume manufacturing processes in machining, precision metal stamping and fabrication, Casting, Extrusion, Mold/Tooling Making, Mold Injection, Finishes and Coatings, Composites, Energetic Materials and Assembly of Energetic components, and other common processes in the Aerospace and Defense Industries.
• Extensive success with 8D problem solving methodology
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify gaps, provide practical solutions and drive execution for resolution
• High level of analytical ability to evaluate and identify appropriate alternative courses of action for definition and resolution of problems that are highly unusual and/or complex
• Interpersonal skills required to handle difficult situations as well as to diffuse interpersonal conflict effectively.
• Ability to self-manage with a track record of coming through on commitments.
• Ability to prioritize and coordinate own tasks with focus on achieving objectives
• Self-motivated, good communicator and ability to lead
• Computer skills including Word, Excel, PP, etc.
• Ability to obtain ATF approval to work with NDS products
• Travel of minimum 10%
• Ability to obtain BATF approval to engage in certain explosive operations

**Note**: Due to US Export Control laws and regulations; applicants selected for employment must show proof of a U.S. Person status before employment may begin.