Supplier Quality Engineer (Levels 1–4)

KT2i; Newport News (VA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology firm is seeking a Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) in Newport News, VA. This role focuses on ensuring high-quality standards for purchased materials and driving improvements across supplier capabilities. Responsibilities include conducting audits, resolving quality issues, and collaborating with internal teams. Candidates must possess a relevant engineering degree and strong analytical skills. This position offers various levels from entry to senior depending on experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related discipline preferred; or Associate degree with two years of related experience.
• Knowledge of root cause analysis, problem-solving processes, and 8D methodology.
• Experience with ISO 9001:2015 and applicable regulatory standards.

Responsibilities

• Support the evaluation and continuous improvement of supplier manufacturing.
• Ensure the quality and reliability of purchased materials.
• Conduct audits, generate reports, and follow up on corrective actions.

Skills

Strong mathematical and analytical skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related discipline

Tools

Statistical analysis software

ERP systems

Job description

Role Overview

KT2i is seeking a Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) to support the evaluation, development, and continuous improvement of supplier manufacturing and quality capabilities. This role is responsible for ensuring the quality and reliability of purchased materials, driving process improvements, conducting audits, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. Multiple levels are available, ranging from entry-level to senior-level, depending on experience and expertise.

Key Responsibilities

Level 1

• Learn and apply company policies, procedures, and quality standards to complete routine tasks.
• Act as liaison between suppliers and internal teams regarding quality, production, and process capability concerns.
• Identify, investigate, and resolve quality issues related to purchased products.
• Apply quality tools and techniques to support continuous improvement.
• Conduct audits, generate reports, and follow up on corrective actions.
• Facilitate root cause analysis and corrective/preventive action processes.
• Develop quality and technical documentation.
• Support production operations with quality-related issues.
• Work under supervision with detailed instructions.

Level 2 (Includes all Level 1 responsibilities plus)

• Drive quality and process improvements across the organization.
• Monitor supplier performance and maintain supplier scorecards.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to resolve quality challenges.
• Collect and analyze data using basic statistical methods to develop metrics and reports.
• Apply quality tools to evaluate problems and implement effective solutions.

Level 3 (Includes all Level 1 and 2 responsibilities plus)

• Manage moderately complex assignments with minimal supervision.
• Plan and manage projects, including directing resources.
• Exercise judgment in resolving issues and making recommendations.
• Communicate effectively with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Respond to inquiries from customers, regulatory agencies, and business partners.

Level 4 – Senior (Includes all Level 1–3 responsibilities plus)

• Lead complex technical assignments involving engineering, quality, and project management principles in supply chain management.
• Provide leadership and oversight to junior SQEs.
• Assist in personnel evaluation and performance feedback.
• Plan and assign resources for projects and tasks.
• Apply comprehensive knowledge of statistical analysis and APQP methodology.
• Lead supplier, purchasing, and engineering communications for critical initiatives.

Required Skills & Qualifications

Level 1

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related discipline preferred; or Associate degree with two years of related experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience in manufacturing, engineering, or quality.
• Knowledge of fundamental engineering and project management concepts.
• Understanding of root cause analysis, problem-solving processes, and 8D methodology.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical documentation.
• Strong mathematical and analytical skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Level 2

• Bachelor’s degree with 1–2 years of related experience; or Associate degree with 3 years of related experience; or equivalent experience.
• Experience with ERP systems and supplier corrective action management processes.
• Experience with ISO 9001:2008 and auditing using VDA 6.3 guidelines.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting technical documentation.

Level 3

• Bachelor’s degree with 2–4 years of related experience; or equivalent experience.
• Experience with statistical analysis software.
• Knowledge of ISO 9001:2015, TS/AS16496, and applicable regulatory standards.
• Knowledge of statistical methods (MSA, Capability Studies, SPC).
• Experience with APQP methodologies (Process Flow, FMEA, Control Plan, PPAP).
• Experience with structured problem-solving methods (8D, Six Sigma tools).
• Demonstrated project management capability.

Level 4 – Senior

• Bachelor’s degree with 4–6 years of applicable experience; or equivalent experience.
• Subject matter expertise in auditing processes; active certification (e.g., ASQ VDA, CQA) preferred.
• Comprehensive knowledge of ISO 9001:2015, TS/AS16496, and regulatory standards.
• Advanced expertise in statistical analysis and APQP methodology.
• Proven ability to lead complex projects and supplier initiatives.
• Experience supporting process or product launches.

Additional Notes

• This position is not eligible for employment sponsorship. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship requirements.