Job Description

Senior Supplier Welding Engineer

As a Senior Welding Process Engineer , you will play a critical role in ensuring the quality, efficiency, and reliability of our suppliers while supporting the production of vehicles. This role focuses heavily on welding and related fabrication processes to ensure the delivery of high-quality components for our manufacturing operations.

Key Responsibilities:

Supplier Collaboration:

• Act as the primary technical liaison with suppliers of custom metal components, including welding , machining, and fabrication processes.
• Lead recurring meetings with suppliers to manage engineering projects, including process validations, failure analysis, capacity increases, and defect resolution.
• Partner with suppliers to analyze manufacturing processes, develop yield improvement plans, and execute process optimization projects.

Manufacturing Process Development:

• Evaluate supplier processes and provide recommendations for improvements, focusing on welding and other metal fabrication techniques.
• Develop and validate inspection methods, including Gauge R&R studies, and ensure compliance with quality standards.
• Collaborate with suppliers to perform process constraints analyses and implement capacity expansion plans.
• Manage supplier readiness for production ramps, including capacity assessments and process capability evaluations.

Quality Assurance and Problem Solving:

• Conduct risk assessments using tools such as PFMEA and develop validation plans (IQ/OQ/PQ) to ensure robust manufacturing processes.
• Investigate and resolve supplier-related quality issues, driving root cause analysis and corrective action implementation.
• Support incoming inspection teams by addressing defects and managing non-conformance investigations.

Technical Documentation and Reporting:

• Maintain detailed records of supplier performance, validation activities, and improvement initiatives.
• Generate key performance metrics for suppliers and report progress to stakeholders.
• Prepare and deliver supplier communications, including scorecards and performance evaluations.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Partner with internal teams, including design, production, and quality engineering, to resolve manufacturing challenges and implement process improvements.
• Influence design changes by providing feedback based on supplier capabilities and production requirements.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across the supply chain using Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, and statistical process control techniques.

Qualifications:

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering (or related field).
• 6+ years of experience in manufacturing, supplier quality, or process engineering.
• Strong knowledge of welding processes , fabrication techniques, and metal machining.
• Experience with process validation, including IQ/OQ/PQ protocols.
• Proficiency in root cause analysis, corrective action implementation, and risk management tools such as PFMEA.
• Demonstrated experience with statistical process control (SPC) and process optimization methodologies.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., Creo, SolidWorks) and ERP systems (SAP preferred).

Preferred:

• Experience in automotive industry or other similar industries
• Familiarity with commercial design standards.
• Lean Six Sigma certification (Black Belt preferred).
• Hands-on experience in a heavy-manufacturing environment, including welding and assembly.

This role is based in Auburn Hills, MI, travel to supplier sites throughout Southern Michigan is required.

Base salary is DOE 85k-145k

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