Supplier Quality Engineer
ITM Power PLC
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Benefits offered by this job
Job summary
ITM Power in Sheffield is seeking a Supplier Quality Engineer to lead supplier quality assurance and development, ensuring suppliers meet ITM's quality, reliability and sustainability standards.
You will drive supplier audits, PPAP, FAT/FAIR, and 8D investigations, plus continuous improvement across the supply chain, working with Engineering, Purchasing and Operations to prevent recurrence.
Regular travel to supplier sites is required as part of supplier development activities.
Qualifications
- Engineering or science-based education, HNC or degree.
- Lean Six Sigma Green/Black Belt certification.
- 5+ years supplier quality in manufacturing/engineering.
- Lead auditor experience; knowledge of ISO 9001/14001/45001.
- Ability to drive supplier improvement programs.
Responsibilities
- Develop and maintain supplier quality management programmes to meet standards.
- Lead supplier audits and PPAP activities for new/existing suppliers.
- Drive 8D problem-solving, containment and corrective actions.
- Monitor supplier performance via KPI tracking and vendor ratings.
- Collaborate with Engineering, Purchasing and Operations to resolve issues.
Skills
Education
Tools
Job description
Location: Sheffield
ITM is at the forefront of the green hydrogen industry, designing and manufacturing cutting-edge PEM electrolysers that are instrumental in global decarbonisation efforts. With over two decades of scientific expertise, we’ve established ourselves as industry leaders in clean energy technology.
As pioneers in green hydrogen technology, ITM is offering the most advanced PEM electrolyser technology in the world. Founded in 2000, ITM Power PLC was one of the first companies of its kind to be listed on the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange. Headquartered in the UK, our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility is the world’s first largest PEM Gigafactory in commercial operation, and home to our R&D and manufacturing. ITM Power Germany is our hub in the heart of the EU. This facility not only houses regional functions including business development and engineering, but also our Aftersales services with the ability to quickly deploy stacks.
Our PEM electrolysers are deployed in some of the world's largest green hydrogen projects. We continue to push the boundaries of technology, enhancing cost-effectiveness and sustainability.
ITM is in the midst of a transformative phase, focusing on streamlined delivery and operational excellence. We're seeking talented individuals who share our passion for clean energy and our drive to make a tangible impact on the world's transition to net-zero.
You will be working with an inspiring bunch of people, encouraging each other to be the best we can. We’ve come a long way, join us in the next step of our incredible journey!
We have an opportunity for a Supplier Quality Engineer where you will lead and manage all aspects of supplier quality assurance and supplier development, ensuring that suppliers consistently meet ITM Power's quality, reliability, and sustainability requirements. The role is responsible for driving continuous improvement across the supply chain through effective supplier qualification, auditing, performance management, problem solving, and quality improvement initiatives.
- Develop, implement, and maintain supplier quality management programmes to ensure compliance with ITM Power's quality, reliability, and sustainability standards.
- Manage all aspects of supplier quality assurance, including supplier approval, qualification, auditing, performance monitoring, and supplier quality concerns.
- Support supplier quality requirements throughout the New Product Introduction (NPI) process.
- Build strong supplier relationships and drive supplier development activities to improve performance, quality, and reliability.
- Conduct supplier audits to assess compliance with quality standards, processes, and contractual requirements.
- Lead Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) activities for new and existing suppliers.
- Conduct Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT), First Article Inspection Reports (FAIR), and supplier process capability studies.
- Verify supplier manufacturing readiness and ensure components and materials meet specification requirements before production release.
- Lead supplier quality investigations arising from internal non-conformities, customer complaints, and supplier performance concerns.
- Drive the Supplier 8D problem-solving process, including containment, root cause analysis, corrective actions, and effectiveness verification.
- Manage and maintain the Supplier 8D Investigation Tracking Log, ensuring actions are completed and closed in a timely manner.
- Initiate and coordinate investigations with relevant technical authorities where deviations from specifications are identified.
- Monitor supplier quality performance through KPI tracking, Vendor Rating Systems, and quality data analysis.
- Lead monthly supplier performance reviews and drive targeted improvement initiatives.
- Identify trends, risks, and recurring issues to prioritise supplier improvement activities.
- Implement continuous improvement programmes to enhance supplier capability, product quality, and process reliability.
- Work closely with Engineering, Purchasing, Operations, and other key stakeholders to resolve supplier quality issues and prevent recurrence.
- Facilitate cross-functional root cause investigations and corrective action implementation.
- Ensure effective communication of supplier quality performance, risks, and improvement plans across the business.
- Train, coach, and support suppliers in the use of quality tools, methodologies, and best practices.
- Improve supplier understanding of quality requirements, problem-solving techniques, and continuous improvement methods.
- Promote a proactive quality culture throughout the supply chain.
Travel regularly to supplier sites to conduct audits, investigations, performance reviews, and supplier development activities.
- HNC or degree qualified in an Engineering, Technology or Science based subject
- Certified Lean/ Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt
- Proven supplier quality experience of at least 5 years in a manufacturing and/ or technical environment (e.g. Automotive)
- Proven Lead Auditor/ Auditor experience and understanding of management systems standards (e.g. ISO9001/ 14001/ 45001).
- Ability to manage and lead Improvement Plans with suppliers to conclusion
- Strong knowledge of structured problem-solving techniques (e.g. Six Sigma/ Lean Toolbox) and experienced in improvement methodologies
- Experienced in working to technical drawings and specifications and using metrology (including 3D measurements)
- Solid experience in supplier development, with mechanical and/ or electrical systems ideally in a manufacturing/ engineering environment
- Excellent communication, analytical and IT skills (e.g. Microsoft 365 applications, Sharepoint)
- Positive attitude with a ‘can do’ mindset when faced with a challenge
- Able to challenge, motivate and enthuse fellow colleagues across other departments in the development of a proactive and preventive quality improvement culture
- Excellent analytical and diagnostic skills - to support problem solving and continuous improvement activities
- Accuracy and attention to detail
- Good organisational skills
- Challenges and promotes best practice and development
- Sound commercial awareness and ability to influence internal and external stakeholders.
The opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology in a rapidly growing industry, within a dynamic environment where you can shape the future of energy and work with a team that’s actively addressing global climate challenges. Our corporate culture values safety, integrity and continuous improvement.
A competitive salary and an excellent contributory pension, 25 days holiday and a wider range of benefits including:
- Buy as you earn (BAYE) share scheme
- Birthday holiday
- Holiday Purchase
- Lifestyle Discounts
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Health Cash Plan
- Eye Care
- Gym Scheme
- Life assurance
- EV Car Leasing
- Enhanced Parental Leave
- Our onsite parking includes free electric car charging points
Our success is driven by the exceptional diversity of our people. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to promoting and creating a diverse and inclusive environment where we encourage our employees to learn and grow, fuelled by mutual respect in a place where ideas flow and thrive.
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