Supplier Development Manager

Overview

We are seeking an experienced Supplier Development Engineer / Manufacturing Engineer who will divide their time between supplier development and manufacturing engineering for New Product Introduction (NPI).

This role will serve as the technical bridge between our company and our Mexico-based and global supply base. You will work directly with suppliers to strengthen manufacturing processes, improve quality and delivery performance, and ensure smooth, risk-managed product launches from prototype through production ramp.

This is a hands-on, technically focused role requiring strong manufacturing expertise, structured problem-solving skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with suppliers, internal teams, and customers across cultures and time zones.

About PacRim Manufacturing

PacRim Manufacturing is a value-added manufacturing services company that has been solving complex global supply chain challenges since 1994. With operations and supplier networks across the United States, China, Thailand, Malaysia, Costa Rica, and Mexico, we partner with customers and suppliers to deliver reliable, high-quality, and cost-effective manufacturing solutions across industries including consumer electronics, medical devices, robotics, off-road vehicles, and exercise equipment.

Responsibilities — Supplier Development (~50%)

• Develop and execute supplier improvement plans focused on quality, delivery, and cost performance
• Plan and conduct supplier assessments; document findings and verify effective corrective action closure
• Manage supplier performance through audits, technical reviews, and performance scorecards
• Lead structured root cause analysis for supplier quality issues
• Support cost reduction initiatives and elimination of non-quality cost
• Evaluate supplier technical capability, process maturity, and quality systems
• Collaborate with suppliers to implement Lean manufacturing and process optimization initiatives
• Support supplier compliance with relevant quality standards (ISO 9001; exposure to ISO 13485, AS9100, or IATF 16949 is a plus)

Responsibilities — Manufacturing Engineering / NPI (~50%)

• Lead or support manufacturing engineering activities for new product launches (NPI)
• Facilitate Design for Manufacturability (DFM) collaboration between suppliers, internal engineering, and customers
• Develop or review supplier process flows to ensure robust, repeatable manufacturing
• Support activities including:
• Process flow diagrams
• Control Plans
• First Article Inspection (FAI)
• PPAP documentation
• Review and approve supplier inspection plans and critical-to-quality controls
• Identify manufacturing risks and develop mitigation plans
• Coordinate technical issue resolution using data-driven problem-solving methods
• Provide clear, timely technical communication to suppliers, internal teams, and customers
• Ensure smooth transition from prototype to stable production

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent technical field)
• 5+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering and/or supplier development
• Demonstrated experience in at least two of the following:
• Injection molding
• Metal stamping
• CNC machining
• Extrusion
• Metal fabrication
• PCBA or electromechanical assembly
• Strong working knowledge of Control Plans, and FAI/PPAP
• Experience conducting supplier audits and technical assessments
• Proven ability to lead structured problem-solving and corrective action activities
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Teams, SharePoint)
• Ability to work cross-functionally and across cultures with global suppliers
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and comfortable in fast-moving environments

Preferred Skills (Nice to Have)

• Knowledge of GD&T
• Experience working with ERP systems (e.g., AS400 or similar)
• Background in regulated industries (medical, aerospace, or automotive)

Work Environment & Travel

• Home-based (remote), primarily based in Tijuana, Mexico
• Weekly site visits to Mexico-based suppliers required
• Occasional travel to the United States as program needs dictate
• Collaboration with global suppliers and internal teams across time zones

Job Type: Contract

Pay: $ $37.77 per hour

Work Location: On the road