Job Description
We are seeking an experienced Supplier Development Engineer to drive the technical development and performance of suppliers within a specific commodity or technology area. This role involves close collaboration with both suppliers and internal teams to strengthen technical competencies, ensure scalability, and drive continuous improvement and value creation.
* Own the Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) to ensure quality compliance before production release.
* Lead New Product Development (NPD) execution with suppliers from concept through production, ensuring any changes meet technical and approval requirements.
* Build deep technical expertise in key commodities, such as Hydraulics, Cylinders, Steel Structures, Electrics, and Power Train.
* Conduct technical and performance audits, capacity evaluations, and sustainability assessments to monitor supplier performance and identify improvement areas.
* Oversee the development and execution of recovery plans for suppliers facing escalated technical or operational issues.
* Work closely with suppliers to define clear action plans, provide technical support, and ensure the successful resolution of any supplier-related challenges.
* Drive cost reduction, process optimization, and innovation initiatives with suppliers.
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Requirements
To succeed in this role, you will need:
* Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
* Strong technical expertise in one of the following commodities: Hydraulics, Cylinders, Steel Structures, Electrics, or Power Train.
* Proven experience in supplier development, quality management, or procurement, with a focus on technical supplier relationships.
* In-depth knowledge of the PPAP process, NPD cycles, and source change management.
* Familiarity with continuous improvement methodologies, such as Lean, Six Sigma, or Kaizen.
* Strong understanding of sustainability audits, capacity evaluations, and supplier performance assessment.
* Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment while managing multiple projects and priorities.
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Key Skills
The ideal candidate will possess strong skills in:
* Lean manufacturing
* NPD engineering
* Supply chain management
* PPAP
* Six Sigma