Supplier Quality Engineer

Company Overview

ExoTerra is a world leader in solar electric propulsion systems and space exploration satellites. The company develops Hall Thrusters, propulsion modules, microsatellites and launch vehicle upper stages.  We have been awarded multiple propulsion module and satellite contracts. 

Essential Functions:

• Partner with supplier performance manager to develop, evaluate, revise and apply technical quality assurance protocol and methods to support Supplier Quality Assurance activities.
• Assess supplier process controls and capabilities to confirm products are manufactured to meet quality requirements
• Develop a PFMEA and a Quality Plans with ExoTerra Engineering team to prevent or eliminate the risk of non-conforming product being produced by the supplier.
• Manage and own supplier-caused non-conformances
  • Coordinate, issue and evaluate supplier corrective action requests (SCARs)
  • Ensure SCAR closure and effectiveness
  • Create vendor nonconformances (NCs) and partner with the MRB team to disposition and ensure closure.
• Maintain the supplier quality agreements, define and verify the key product characteristics during first article inspection (FAI) and plan/execute supplier trial runs, as required.
• Monitor, analyze, and maintain supplier quality objectives/metrics with the supplier performance manager.
• Support supplier approval, process qualification, and ongoing performance management with the Supplier Performance Manager (SPM).
• Provide final quality approval of supplier qualifications and ensure requirements are updated and completely entered into the system.
• Partner with the Supplier Performance Manager and Purchasing to select, qualifying and manage assigned suppliers
• Ensure supplier compliance with ExoTerra quality requirements. Communicate and verify configuration requirements and technical data package with supplier performance manager and purchasing team.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to drive supplier performance to goals.
• Performs other duties as assigned or required.

Basic Qualifications

• Experience with AS 9100, ISO 9001, or the quality assurance program requirements in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience with assessing and qualifying spaceflight suppliers and sub-tiers and developing plans to reduce any risks found during the assessment.
• Experience using process improvement techniques and methodologies
• Experience in full product life cycle from Research & Development to New Product Introduction to Production, and Post-Production.
• Strong working knowledge of and experience with Microsoft Office® suite or similar software programs.
• Education: Bachelor’s

Preferred Qualifications

• 7+ years of Supplier Quality Engineering experience in aerospace or defense manufacturing.
• Experience with AS9100, AS9102, supplier audits, supplier qualification, and risk assessments.
• Knowledge of APQP, PPAP, PFMEA, Control Plans, and process capability analysis.
• Demonstrated success managing SCARs, root cause investigations, and supplier performance improvement initiatives.
• Experience with machining, special processes, electronics, or flight hardware suppliers.
• ASQ CQE, CSQP, or equivalent professional certification preferred.
• Experience with customer flow-down requirements and aerospace contractual compliance.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Up to 50% travel to supplier locations, customer sites, and other company facilities as required.
• Primarily works in an office and manufacturing environment with regular interaction with production personnel, engineering teams, and suppliers.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally, as required, to perform supplier audits, source inspections, qualification assessments, and supplier performance reviews.
• Exposure to manufacturing equipment, machining operations, fabrication processes, testing activities, and industrial environments requiring appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Must be able to communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders in person, by telephone, and through electronic communication methods.
• Ability to review technical drawings, specifications, quality records, inspection data, and supplier documentation.
• Must be able to sit, stand, walk, and move throughout office and manufacturing facilities for extended periods.
• Occasionally required to lift and carry items up to 25 pounds.

Export Control / Compliance Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. 

Compensation & Benefits

The good faith base salary rangefor this role is $100,000–$130,000 at the time of this posting. Where you fall within the range depends on your experience, skills, and location. This range reflects base salary only and does not include benefits or bonus/incentive. This range may be adjusted in the future.

ExoTerra offers a comprehensive, total compensation package, which includes competitive salary, a discretionary annual bonus plan, paid time off (PTO), a comprehensive health benefit package and various other benefits. When you join our team, you’re not just an employee; you become part of a dynamic community dedicated to innovation and excellence.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

ExoTerra is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.