Supplier Quality Engineer

Job Description

Supplier Quality Engineer

Location: Irvine, CA (Onsite – 4 days/week, 1 day remote)

Travel: Up to 50% (domestic & occasional international)

Overview

We are seeking a Supplier Quality Engineer who will take a lead role in driving supplier performance, with a strong focus on root cause investigation, corrective action execution, and sustained defect reduction. This position is highly hands-on and requires someone who can step in, assess supplier issues, and drive measurable improvements.

The ideal candidate has proven experience managing underperforming suppliers, leading Root Cause & Corrective Action (RCCA) efforts, and ensuring corrective actions are effective, implemented, and sustained over time.

Key Responsibilities

Lead Root Cause & Corrective Action (RCCA) activities with suppliers to resolve quality issues and prevent recurrence

Review and disposition supplier-related part rejections, ensuring timely and effective resolution

Work directly with underperforming suppliers to identify gaps, enforce accountability, and drive improvement plans

Communicate clearly with suppliers to ensure corrective actions are properly defined, implemented, and validated

Track and analyze supplier defects, identifying trends and implementing strategies to reduce defect rates

Conduct supplier audits and follow-ups with a focus on corrective action effectiveness and long-term sustainability

Partner with engineering, operations, and supply chain to escalate and resolve critical supplier issues

Support continuous improvement initiatives aimed at strengthening supplier quality systems and performance

Work with suppliers producing machined and mechanical components (e.g., metal parts, fasteners, gears, motors, control systems)

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field

OR

Minimum 15 years of relevant experience with a reputable company in lieu of a degree

3–5 years of experience in Supplier Quality, Manufacturing Quality, or similar role

Strong, hands-on experience with Root Cause & Corrective Action (RCCA) (required)

Proven experience managing underperforming suppliers and driving corrective actions to closure

Demonstrated success in reducing supplier defects and improving supplier performance metrics

Experience working with suppliers of machined or mechanical componentsTechnical Skills

Proficiency in SAP for tracking defects, nonconformances, and corrective actions

Strong Excel skills for data analysis, reporting, and trend tracking

Experience with structured problem-solving methodologies (e.g., 8D, A3, 5 Whys, DMAIC)

Ability to interpret engineering drawings and specifications

Core Competencies

Strong leadership skills with the ability to influence suppliers and drive accountability

Excellent communication skills, particularly in high-pressure or high-visibility situations

Detail-oriented with a focus on root cause accuracy and corrective action effectiveness

Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities

Ability to manage multiple priorities and drive issues to closure

Nice to Have

Aerospace, defense, or automotive industry experience

Experience working in regulated or safety-critical manufacturing environments

Familiarity with supplier quality standards and audit processes

Work Environment & Additional Details

Onsite role in Irvine, CA with 1 day/week remote flexibility

Up to 50% travel required to supplier locations

Must be authorized to work in the United States

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive salary

Bonus opportunities

Comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, vision, 401k, PTO, etc.)

Benefits:

401(k)

Health insurance

Paid time off

Company Description

Dragonfly Recruiting was founded with a vision to revolutionize the staffing industry. From our humble beginnings, we have grown into a trusted partner for businesses and job seekers alike. Our journey began with a small team of passionate recruiters who believed in the power of personalized service and the importance of building strong relationships.

Recently, we have expanded our services and our team, always staying true to our core values of integrity, excellence, and commitment to quality. Our growth has been driven by our dedication to understanding the unique needs of our clients and candidates, and our ability to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of the job market.

Dragonfly Recruiting is proud to be a leader in the staffing industry, known for our innovative solutions and our unwavering commitment to helping businesses and individuals achieve their goals.

Full-time

Hybrid remote