Senior Automotive Quality Engineer - Supplier Development

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks a Senior Automotive Quality Engineer to lead supplier quality, drive QMS compliance (IATF 16949) and support new product introductions across the supply chain.

You will conduct supplier audits, lead CAPA programs, PPAP for new parts, and mentor internal teams while traveling to supplier sites as needed. A Mechanical/Electrical/Industrial engineering degree and 6+ years in automotive quality are required.

Qualifications

• Engineering degree (Mechanical, Electrical or Industrial) or related field.
• 6+ years in automotive quality engineering, with supplier quality focus.
• IATF 16949 knowledge and related automotive certifications.
• Experience with APQP, PPAP, FMEA, SPC and 8D problem solving.
• Auditing supplier facilities and internal quality audits.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement supplier quality assurance strategies and processes.
• Conduct regular audits of supplier facilities for compliance with standards and contracts.
• Monitor supplier performance metrics and drive corrective actions for deviations.
• Lead investigation and CAPA for quality issues on sourced materials and parts.
• Collaborate with R&D and engineering to ensure launches meet quality requirements.
• Provide technical guidance to suppliers to improve quality systems.
• Manage PPAP for new and modified supplier parts.
• Facilitate cross‑functional teams to address complex quality challenges.
• Stay updated on industry quality standards and best practices.

Tools

APQP

PPAP

FMEA

SPC

8D

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading Tier 1 automotive supplier, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Automotive Quality Engineer to join their team in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is critical in ensuring the quality and reliability of automotive components supplied to major OEMs. You will be responsible for managing supplier quality, conducting audits, driving continuous improvement initiatives, and resolving quality issues related to sourced parts. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of automotive quality management systems (QMS), such as IATF 16949, and possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills. You will work closely with both internal engineering teams and external suppliers to maintain high product quality standards and enhance overall supply chain performance. This is a key position within our client's operations in Richards Bay , contributing directly to their commitment to excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement supplier quality assurance strategies and processes.
• Conduct regular audits of supplier facilities to assess compliance with quality standards and contractual requirements.
• Monitor supplier performance metrics and take corrective actions to address any quality deviations or non-conformances.
• Lead the investigation and resolution of quality issues related to supplied materials and components, including the implementation of robust corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
• Collaborate with R&D and engineering teams to ensure new product introductions meet all quality requirements.
• Provide technical support and guidance to suppliers to improve their quality systems and processes.
• Manage the PPAP (Production Part Approval Process) for new and modified parts from suppliers.
• Facilitate cross-functional teams to address complex quality challenges.
• Stay current with industry quality standards, regulations, and best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial) or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in automotive quality engineering, with a strong focus on supplier quality development.
• In-depth knowledge of IATF 16949 standards and other relevant automotive quality certifications.
• Proven experience with quality tools and methodologies such as APQP, PPAP, FMEA, SPC, and 8D problem-solving.
• Strong auditing skills, with experience conducting supplier audits.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Effective communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and quality management software.
• Ability to travel to supplier sites as required.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive health benefits, retirement plan options, and opportunities for professional growth and development. This role provides the chance to make a significant impact on product quality and supply chain efficiency within a reputable automotive manufacturing company based in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . Join a dedicated team committed to delivering superior automotive components and enjoy a challenging and rewarding career.