Supplier Development Engineer

Saronic Technologies is a leader in revolutionizing defense autonomy at sea, dedicated to developing state-of-the-art solutions that enhance maritime operations for the Department of Defense (DoD) through autonomous and intelligent platforms.

Job Overview

A technical role within the supply chain, reporting to the Supplier Development Manager, focused on improving supplier performance. The Supplier Development Engineer will support continuous improvement initiatives, fostering strong supplier relationships, and ensuring that quality and output requirements are embedded throughout the supply chain.

Responsibilities

• Collaborating with suppliers on process improvements and technical assessments. Partner with suppliers to improve their quality systems, processes, and capabilities. Provide technical support and guidance to suppliers on quality-related issues, promoting continuous improvement and ensuring alignment with company standards.
• Developing and validating manufacturing blueprints and process flows for new products.
• Driving continuous improvement efforts within the supply chain to ensure product quality.
• Participate in and drive continuous improvement projects aimed at enhancing supplier quality, reducing defects, and improving overall supply chain performance. Utilize tools such as Six Sigma, Lean, and Kaizen to identify and eliminate inefficiencies.
• Using statistical tools and industry-standard methodologies like DOE (Design of Experiments) and FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis).

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, or a related field (or equivalent work experience).
• 3+ years of experience in quality engineering, supplier quality, or related roles, ideally in a manufacturing or production environment.
• Strong knowledge of quality standards and methodologies (ISO 9001, ISO/TS 16949, APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans, etc.).
• Experience conducting supplier audits, inspections, and quality assessments.
• Proficiency in root cause analysis and problem-solving techniques (e.g., 8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagram, etc.).
• Familiarity with quality management systems (QMS) and continuous improvement methodologies (Six Sigma, Lean).
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with suppliers and internal teams.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and familiarity with quality management software or ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, etc.).
• Ability to travel to supplier sites as needed.
• Certification in quality or supplier management (e.g., CQE, Six Sigma Green/Black Belt, or similar).
• Experience in a global supply chain or working with international suppliers.
• Knowledge of advanced product quality planning (APQP) and product lifecycle management (PLM).
• Experience in a regulated industry (automotive, defense, aerospace, medical devices, etc.).

Benefits

• Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of services
• Saronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents
• Dental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision care
• Saronic pays 99% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents
• Time Off: Generous PTO and Holidays
• Parental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parents
• Competitive Salary: Industry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonuses
• Retirement Plan: 401(k) plan
• Stock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the company’s success
• Life and Disability Insurance: Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage
• Additional Perks: Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office

Physical Demands

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Occasional standing and walking within the office.
• Manual dexterity to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and other office equipment.
• Visual acuity to read screens, documents, and reports.
• Occasional reaching, bending, or stooping to access file drawers, cabinets, or office supplies.
• Lifting and carrying items up to 20 pounds occasionally (e.g., office supplies, packages).

This role requires access to export-controlled information or items that require “U.S. Person” status. As defined by U.S. law, individuals who are any one of the following are considered to be a “U.S. Person”: (1) U.S. citizens, (2) legal permanent residents (a.k.a. green card holders), and (3) certain protected classes of asylees and refugees, as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)._