Supplier Quality Engineer

NRL Ltd; Sunderland; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A global Battery Manufacturing organisation in Sunderland is searching for a Supplier Quality Engineer to ensure the quality of battery-related components and raw materials. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in engineering and 3–5 years of related experience. Key responsibilities include qualifying suppliers, ensuring compliance with industry standards, and leading investigations into quality issues. This position offers an exciting opportunity to be involved in innovative manufacturing processes in support of the growing electric vehicle market.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience in Supplier Quality, preferably in automotive battery manufacturing or high-voltage systems.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes for battery components including cell production and module assembly.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate and qualify new suppliers through audits and capability assessments.
• Ensure supplier compliance with automotive and battery industry standards.
• Lead investigations into supplier-related non-conformances.

Skills

Strong understanding of quality tools and standards

Knowledge of contamination control requirements

Excellent communication, negotiation, and supplier management skills

Ability to travel domestically and internationally

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Materials, or Industrial Engineering

Job description

Job description

NRL are proud to be recruiting on behalf of AESC for a Supplier Quality Engineer to join their world‑leading, global Battery Manufacturing organisation based in the North East of England. In this role you will support the development and operation of a world class, innovative, large‑scale mass manufacturing plant.

This is a unique and rare opportunity to join one of the most exciting, large scale, net zero industrial developments where new and emerging technologies will be adopted in support of the rapidly growing electric vehicle marketplace.

Mission and role details

The Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE/SQD) is responsible for ensuring that all battery‑related components, raw materials, and services sourced from suppliers meet stringent quality requirements for safety, performance, and reliability. This includes managing the quality of high‑voltage components, battery cells/modules, thermal management systems, electrical connectors, and structural parts. The SQE works closely with suppliers, Purchasing, Engineering, and Manufacturing to drive Zero Defect Culture and secure a robust, compliant, and sustainable supply chain.

Outline and Responsibilities

Supplier Development Qualification

• Evaluate and qualify new suppliers through audits, capability assessments, and technical reviews, focusing on materials and processes critical to battery safety and performance.
• Lead APQP and PPAP activities for new battery‑related components (cells, modules, BMS, cooling plates, enclosures, etc.).
• Verify supplier manufacturing process controls, for high‑voltage safety, traceability, and cleanliness requirements (VDA 19.1 / VDA 19.2).

Quality Assurance Compliance

• Ensure supplier compliance with automotive and battery industry standards (IATF 16949, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, VDA 6.3, UN 38.3, IEC 62660).
• Conduct process and system audits, including special process verification (e.g., welding, coating, adhesive application).
• Manage supplier documentation to ensure compliance with technical specifications, regulatory requirements, and customer expectations.

Problem Solving & Issue Resolution

• Lead investigations into supplier‑related non‑conformances, including safety‑critical failures, functional performance issues, and contamination problems.
• Apply structured problem‑solving (8D, 5‑Why, Ishikawa) to address root causes and prevent recurrence.
• Collaborate with suppliers to implement corrective and preventive actions, ensuring timely closure and verification of effectiveness.

Continuous Improvement & Risk Reduction

• Monitor supplier performance through KPIs (PPM, audit scores, OTD, incident recurrence rate) and conduct regular supplier performance reviews.
• Support supplier process optimization projects to improve consistency, reduce variability, and eliminate sources of contamination.
• Promote Zero Defect Culture and proactive quality management across the supplier base.

Experience & Qualifications Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Materials, or Industrial Engineering.
• 3–5 years of experience in Supplier Quality, preferably in automotive battery manufacturing or high‑voltage systems.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes for battery components, including cell production, module assembly, welding, sealing, and electronics manufacturing.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong understanding of quality tools and standards: PPAP, APQP, MSA, SPC, FMEA.
• Knowledge of contamination control requirements (VDA 19.1, VDA 19.2).
• Experience with high‑voltage safety and regulatory compliance (UN 38.3, IEC standards).
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and supplier management skills.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally (up to X%).

Preferred

• VDA 6.3 Process Auditor certification.
• Experience with lithium‑ion battery manufacturing and testing processes.
• Knowledge of advanced manufacturing quality control technologies (X‑ray, leak testing, EOL testing).

The NRL Group connects global companies with the right people to bring engineering projects to life. Supporting contracting companies with energy transition plans and working with our clients to create a cleaner, greener future.

We welcome applications from every walk of life and are committed to diversity within the industries we support, as a certified Inclusive Recruiter and Armed Forces friendly employer.

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