Supplier Quality Engineer

At ACE Thermal Systems, we design, engineer, manufacture, and support high-performance environmental control systems (ECS) and components for extreme temperature and operating conditions and reliable everyday use.

As your single source, dedicated supplier for bleed air systems, air conditioning systems, cabin pressure control systems, components, and more, the ACE team acts as a key extension of your team, providing intelligent innovation and proven design methodologies to deliver safe, reliable, air control technologies and systems for aircraft.

Our mission is to be the trusted source of mission critical products and services for Aerospace and Defense customers. We do this by exceeding customer expectations through innovative products and processes. We are committed to fostering a dynamic, collaborative environment that encourages professional growth and innovation.

Summary: 

The Supplier Quality Engineer is responsible for managing the quality of the global supply base. Corresponding with suppliers to ensure suppliers are meeting quality, compliance and performance requirements. As the Supplier Quality Engineer you’ll own supplier quality performance throughout the product lifecycle – from qualification and new product introduction through production and continuous improvement. You will play a key role in strengthening supplier performance by driving defect prevention, improving process capability, and ensuring alignment to engineering, regulatory, and customer requirements. This will require both technical depth and the ability to influence and elevate supplier performance in a demanding, mission-critical environment. You’ll also be responsible for…

Supplier Qualification and Development

• Lead supplier selection and qualification activities, including capability assessments, risk evaluations, and on-site audits.
• Ensure effective flow-down of engineering, quality, and customer-specific requirements.
• Drive supplier readiness for production, including First Article Inspection (FAI) and process validation.
• Assess and approve supplier manufacturing processes, controls, and quality systems in alignment with AS9100.

Supplier Performance, Data & Continuous Improvement

• Establish, monitor, and drive key performance indicators (KPIs) including PPM, on-time delivery (OTD), cost of poor quality (COPQ), and escapes.
• Lead structured supplier performance reviews with corresponding improvement plans.
• Partner with Supply Chain Management to align sourcing decisions with supplier performance and risk.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to reduce defects, variation, and cost.

Issue Resolution & Corrective Action

• Lead investigation and resolution of supplier-related nonconformances and escapes.
• Drive robust root cause analysis using structured problem-solving methodologies (8D, FEMA, 5 Whys, Fishbone diagrams, etc.).
• Ensure corrective actions are implemented, verified, and effective in preventing recurrence.
• Escalate critical issues and drive timely containment, resolution, and communication.

Process Control & Risk Mitigation

• Evaluate and improve supplier process controls using tools such as Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA), Statistical Process Control (SPC), and control plans.
• Identify and mitigate risks related to special processes, capacity constraints, and process variation.
• Drive implementation of error-proofing and prevention-based quality systems.

Supplier Audits & Compliance

• Conduct supplier audits to ensure compliance with AS9100 and regulatory and customer requirements.
• Support customer and regulatory audits involving the supply base.
• Ensure suppliers maintain robust and compliant quality management systems.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Operations, and Program Management to resolve supplier issues and improve overall supply chain performance.
• Provide technical input on supplier selection, development, and risk management.
• Act as a key interface between the company, its suppliers, and customers.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related technical discipline.
• 5+ years of experience in a supplier quality engineer role, preferably in the manufacturing aerospace or defense industry. Experience supporting original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) or Tier 1 suppliers within the aerospace and defense      industries is preferred.
• Certified Quality Engineer (CQE), Certified Supplier Quality Professional (CSQP), or Six Sigma Green / Black belt is a plus. AS9100 Lead Auditor certification desired.
• Strong experience in root cause analysis and corrective action processes.
• Proven track record of conducting supplier audits and driving supplier improvement initiatives.
• In-depth experience with AS9100, ISO 9001, NADCAP, FAA, and other relevant aerospace quality standards and regulations.
• Familiarity with APQP, FAI, FMEA, SPC, and control plans is a plus.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) and quality software tools.
• Ability to interpret and apply engineering drawings, specifications, and standards.
• Proficiency in English
• Willingness to travel (25-40%) to supplier sites
• Ability to be on-site at our Seminole, OK facility Monday thru Friday.

To perform this job successfully an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Application Deadline: The position will remain open until filled.

Benefits: We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage; a 401(k) plan with company match; paid time off (including vacation and company holidays); life and disability insurance; and an employee assistance program. Employees may also be eligible for professional development support, and wellness initiatives. Benefits eligibility and offerings may vary based on position, location, and length of employment.

EEO Summary: We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities throughout the application and employment process. If you require assistance or accommodation, please contact us.

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