Supplier Quality and Sourcing Engineer (NY, East Aurora)

Join the Astronics team as a Supplier Quality and Sourcing Engineer!

The Supplier Quality and Sourcing Engineer ensures that materials and components provided by external suppliers meet our stringent engineering, manufacturing, and quality specifications. This role also includes sourcing responsibilities, such as evaluating new suppliers, negotiating supply agreements, and driving supplier selection and sourcing strategies to meet company requirements. Through meaningful collaboration with cross-functional teams, this position will campion both quality assurance and strategic sourcing objectives across three subsidiary locations in Buffalo, New Hampshire and Montreal.

The ideal candidate for this role will be based in the Northeast US. Work primarily remote with the flexibility to travel to both our various external suppliers and three Astronics locations as needed. Astronics also offers a 9/80 schedule with every other Friday off!

What You'll Do:

Supplier Qualification and Monitoring:

• Qualify potential suppliers, ensuring they meet predefined engineering and quality standards.
• Conduct supplier audits to assess quality systems, technical capabilities, and compliance with company requirements.
• Support management of the Approved Supplier List through continual evaluation and qualification efforts.
• Visit supplier sites to oversee their processes and integrate key learnings into the company's supply chain strategy.

Sourcing and Supplier Selection:

• Identify and source qualified suppliers that meet the organization's cost, quality, and delivery expectations.
• Evaluate supplier capabilities and analyze cost structures to optimize sourcing decisions.
• Develop and negotiate supply agreements and contracts with key suppliers.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders, including procurement and engineering teams, to define and execute sourcing strategies.
• Stay informed on market trends, supplier innovations, and new technologies that align with sourcing objectives.

Material Inspection and Quality Assurance:

• Define and implement inspection procedures for incoming goods to ensure quality and compliance with specifications.
• Work with suppliers to obtain documentation such as Flow Diagrams, Process FMEAs, Control Plans, and Inspection Plans.
• Participate in Material Review Boards to address supplier nonconformances and initiate corrective actions.
• Ensure nonconforming material is appropriately managed and resolved in a timely manner.

Supplier Relationship Management:

• Conduct regular supplier performance reviews to assess adherence to cost, quality, and delivery goals.
• Foster strong collaborative relationships with suppliers to drive continuous improvement programs and resolve issues.
• Communicate supplier changes or updates to internal stakeholders effectively.

Regulatory Compliance and Auditing:

• Ensure supplier processes align with ISO9001, AS9100, and other applicable standards.
• Implement and maintain Dock-to-Stock and Supplier Improvement programs.
• Support internal and external compliance audits and assist in regulatory reporting.

Continuous Improvement and Risk Mitigation:

• Identify risks in the supply chain and develop mitigation strategies to ensure reliable material flow.
• Drive process improvements both internally and for external suppliers to enhance overall quality and efficiency.

Other Responsibilities:

• Travel to local and national supplier locations when required.
• Maintain compliance with all ethical, legal, and procedural requirements.
• Other duties as assigned to meet organizational goals and support business operations.

What You'll Bring:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Quality Management, Supply Chain, or a related field.
• 5+ years of professional engineering experience, with preference given to candidates with aerospace industry experience
• Familiarity with AS9100, ISO9001, and FAA requirements
• Experience with Dock-to-Stock programs, supplier corrective actions, and supplier improvement initiatives
• Experience in supplier sourcing, vendor evaluation, and cost negotiations
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to assess and improve supplier quality and sourcing strategies
• Exceptional communication and negotiation skills to build relationships and secure favorable agreements with suppliers
• Ability to conduct supplier audits and implement quality systems
• Proficiency with relevant tools such as ERP systems, SAP, or similar platforms
• Driven, adaptable, and collaborative team player with a customer-first mindset

Why You'll Love Working Here:

• Flexibility That Works: Enjoy a 9/80 schedule with every other Friday off, promoting the work-life harmony you deserve.
• Rewards That Matter: Competitive compensation, quarterly bonuses tied to company profitability, a 401(k) with a 3% company contribution, and an Employee Stock Purchase Plan to secure your financial future.
• Comprehensive Benefits Starting Day One: Health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance, as well as additional voluntary coverage options.
• Paid Holidays and Time to Recharge: Celebrate holidays and benefit from a week-long, full Christmas shutdown.

Compensation:

• Base salary: $100,000 - 125,000, influenced by several factors including experience, skill set, education, certifications, market conditions, and business needs.
• This position may involve access to items subject to U.S. export-control laws. Employment is contingent upon the employee's authorization to access such items under applicable law. The company does not guarantee and is under no obligation to seek such authorization if it would be necessary.