Supplier Technical Engineer

Career Area:
Manufacturing & Supply Chain

**Job Description**:

- Principal Accountabilities:

- This position provides leadership in resolution of quality problems associated with the purchased materials and engineering issues. Responsible for concept drawing, communication of concept with supplier, design/drawing review and acceptance, Windchill activities (drawing finalized), perform BAAN functions, tooling management, Q Notes, etc. Acts as a technical liaison between external suppliers and internal customers through various methods, including supplier site visits.
- The Supplier Technical Engineer will participate in and may lead projects on cross-functional teams utilizing 6 Sigma tools. At the senior level, projects will increase in complexity and value to Solar's strategic objectives.
- Participates in the development of Supplier quality metrics and the monthly gathering and distribution of measurements. Reviews, analyzes and reports supplier quality performance data and trends. Is the focal point for SARN (Supplier Advanced Reject Notices) and RN (Reject Notices) resolution. Initiates root cause analysis and implements supplier corrective and preventative action plans.
- Participates in continuous process improvement and warranty cost recovery related to supplier quality, including recovery of line stop and rework charge analysis.
- Collaborate with Sourcing Specialist, Buyer, Supplier Development Engineer and Material Scheduler to improve supplier cost, quality and throughput.
- Develop and maintain thorough knowledge of technological developments and trends for guidance of commodity teams in advancement of design, quality and manufacturing.
- Coordinates with engineering personnel on matters regarding Concurrent Product and Process Development (CPPD), New Product Introduction (NPI), Continuous Process Improvement (CPI) teams; prove design to production, configuration management, deviations, supplier designs,

specification approvals and meeting cost reduction goals. Participate in design and process Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA).

Leads the PPAP (Production Part Approval Process) and develops the FAPITP (First Article Production Inspection Test Plan) with initial input from Design Engineering. Identifies and provides input to the Buyer for the purchase of supplier tooling.

Skills Required:
This position requires an engineering or manufacturing background plus familiarity with manufacturing processes used to produce components and assemblies and knowledge of shop operations and maintenance procedures.

Familiarity with engineering practices & process planning (interpretation of drawings, tooling concepts, Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), Functional Test, etc) and technical product knowledge (including metallurgy).

Strong analytical problem solving skills, ability to use and communicate statistical and problem solving tools. Strong written and verbal communication skills.

This position requires an undergraduate degree from a college or university, preferably in engineering, or equivalent directly related experience and a minimum of five years job-related experience.

Well - developed interpersonal skills are required in dealing with sensitive issues, developing others and reaching consensus on specific actions, inside and outside of Solar.

Tools and Techniques of 6 Sigma methodology are requirements and will be attained through completion of 6 Sigma training following entry into this position. Familiarity with project management and Design of Experiment (DOE).

Understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles as applied by Solar and our suppliers.

Knowledge of supplier selection process and Solar and supplier's quality management systems required. Familiarity with quality management principles required.

Maintain and promote the highest level of professionalism and business ethics. Some travel may be required.

**Experience**:
5-7 years in related field e.g. Mfg Engineer

3-5 years with B.S

1-3 years with M.S.

Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO).

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