Supplier Quality Engineering Manager

Det-Tronics (Detector Electronics, LLC); Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) retirement plan with company match

Generous paid time off

Career development programs

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Job summary

Det-Tronics (Detector Electronics, LLC) in Minneapolis is looking for an experienced Supplier Quality Engineering (SQE) Manager to lead and improve the supplier quality management system. You'll partner with Supply Chain, Engineering, and Operations to develop and enhance supplier performance across our safety-critical supply base.

This role requires a strong background in quality management, with a focus on proactive approaches to quality and performance improvement. You will also participate in strategic decisions influencing supplier quality.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in Supplier Quality Engineering, preferably managing a team.
• Strong knowledge of quality standards and statistical tools.
• Experience with nonconforming material control and process improvements.

Responsibilities

• Lead the supplier quality management system and SQE team.
• Collaborate with Supply Chain to manage supplier relationships.
• Audit and assess suppliers on a regular basis.

Skills

Leadership and people management

Statistical analysis

Project leadership

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering or related field

Tools

Excel

Power BI

Minitab

Job description

About Us

Det-Tronics is a $200M global technology leader in industrial life safety solutions, specializing in high-end flame and gas detection and automation control systems. As part of Spectrum Safety Solutions with 1,700 employees across 20+ countries we serve mission-critical environments in oil & gas, clean energy, marine, and infrastructure. Backed by Sentinel Capital Partners, we’re driving innovation and growth across our portfolio.

The Opportunity

Det-Tronics is seeking an experienced, process-driven Supplier Quality Engineering (SQE) Manager to own and lead the supplier quality management system and SQE team, ensuring robust supplier performance across a global, safety-critical supply base. This role partners closely with Supply Chain, Engineering, and Operations to qualify, develop, and continuously improve suppliers, support new product introductions, and drive measurable reductions in supplier-related risk and Cost of Poor Quality. The SQE Leader acts as a visible quality champion, shifting the organization from reactive issue management to a proactive, prevention-focused quality culture.

Key Responsibilities

• Primary responsibility is to lead supplier quality management system and Supplier Quality Engineering team, along with supplier issue monitoring, triaging and resolution process.
• Closely collaborate with the Supply Chain team to develop and manage robust supply base.
• Lead regularly scheduled Supplier Quality meetings, supplier issue resolution, and drive continuous improvement.
• Partner with Supply Chain for Supplier sourcing, qualification, selection, and development.
• Work closely with Design Engineering, Supply Chain, and Operations on all stages of New Product Development, ensuring materials readiness at product launch.
• Lead and oversee new supplier and new part qualification process, including PPAP, FAI, setting up incoming inspection requirements, and verification of Cpk data.
• Develop and maintain Supplier Scorecard, track KPIs, and work with suppliers on action plans to improve performance.
• Lead technical reviews of new components and existing components with Supplier and Engineering.
• Audit and assess suppliers’ processes on regular basis, which may include (~20-25%) travel.
• Act as a quality leader in organization.
• Participate as a member of the Material Review Board (MRB).
• Support outside certification audits (e.g., ISO 9001:2015).
• Advocate and promote process focused approach for all functions.
• Enable culture change from a reactive approach to Quality to a proactive approach to Quality.
• Help drive reduction in Det-Tronics Cost of Poor Quality.
• Hold self-accountable to achieving goals and standards.

What You Bring

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing/ Industrial Engineering, or related Technical Field.
• 5+ years or more experience in Manufacturing Industries as senior level Supplier Quality Engineering (SQE) responsibility, with preferably managing/ leading a team.

Preferred Qualifications

• Leadership and people management experience in a manufacturing or quality environment.
• Strong knowledge of statistical analysis (capability analysis, MSA) and GD&T.
• Experience with nonconforming material control (MRB), SCAR, and CAPA.
• Working knowledge of APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans, and DFM reviews.
• Experience managing supplier quality KPIs, including DPPM and Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ).
• Familiarity with AIAG standards and process audits.
• Proficiency in Excel, Power BI, and Minitab.
• Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt preferred.
• Experience partnering with Purchasing/Sourcing and working within MRP systems (JD Edwards preferred).
• Strong project leadership, communication, organization, and time-management skills.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams, meet deadlines under pressure, and drive continuous improvement.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety, quality, and compliance.

Why Join Us?

• Work with a globally respected brand in life safety.
• Influence strategic decisions at the executive level.
• Drive innovation and transformation in a high-growth environment.
• Enjoy development opportunities within a dynamic, private equity-backed company.

Benefits

• Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans with company contributions.
• Financial Security: 401(k) retirement plan with company match, life and disability insurance.
• Time Off: Generous paid time off (PTO), holidays, and flexible scheduling options.
• Professional Growth: Career development programs, training opportunities, and tuition reimbursement.
• Employee Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness resources, and global mobility support.
• Ownership Culture: Participation in our Ownership Program, empowering employees to share in our success.

Ready to shape the future of industrial safety? Apply now and join us in making every life safe and sound.