We are seeking a proactive and results-driven Supplier Development Engineer to lead supplier development initiatives across the North America region. Reporting to the Manager, Supplier Development, you will play a critical role in enhancing supplier capabilities, ensuring compliance with quality and sustainability standards, and driving continuous improvement across the supply base.
In this role, you will define and execute supplier development programs, conduct capability assessments, and lead performance improvement initiatives. You will collaborate cross-functionally with Quality, Engineering, and Procurement teams to ensure supplier readiness, support onboarding and training, and drive adherence to QCDTS (Quality, Cost, Delivery, Technology, Sustainability) metrics. Your expertise in VDA 6.3, IATF standards, and strategic sourcing will be key to strengthening TE’s supply chain resilience and operational excellence.
What your background should look like:
Key Responsibilities
- Define and Execute Supplier Development Program at selected Suppliers.
- Performs Potential Analysis at new suppliers (VDA6.3 Potential Analysis). Verify CQI certifications when applicable.
- Supports SQ in dealing with suppliers for System Development according to IATF when applicable (i.e., ISO 9000 to IATF).
- Leads supplier capability assessments, performance improvement initiatives, and strategic collaboration efforts to enhance TE’s supply chain resilience
- Monitors Supplier’s performance during the Supplier Development Program & defines action plans where needed.
- Owner of Supplier Academy and Supplier Onboarding Process. Provide training for new suppliers on TE systems and procedures.
- Leads and facilitates supplier adherence and access to the Supplier Portal (+SupplyON).
- Leads Scope 3 Sustainability initiatives.
- Supports Buyers in Contractual related issues.
- Supports Supplier Improvement Workshops (i.e., process efficiency, VA/VE, cost reduction) in collaboration with Supplier Quality, CoE, ME and other relevant functions.
- Ensure supplier compliance with QCDTS requirements through KPI tracking, scorecards, and corrective action programs
- Supports Supplier Selection and Approval Business Process.
- Supports Cost Recovery on Supplier´s related quality incident causing financial impact to TE.
Qualifications & Skills:
- At least 5 years of experience within Automotive Procurement/Quality Management portion.
- Expert Knowledge on VDA 6.3., IATF16949, ISO 14000, ISO 9001, LEAN Tools and other Automotive Standards
- Certified VDA 6.3 / IATF 16949 2nd party auditor.
- Problem Solving Tools
- Six Sigma Green Belt experience at minimum.
- Knowledge on specific product and process as required (e.g. Molding, Stamping, Mechanical Assembly, PAB/PCBA…)
- Expert level with the tools related to supplier APQP process, include but not limited to PPAP, FMEA, CP, MSA, SPC, R@R and 8D methodology.
- Ability to work across cultures and geographies effectively.
- Thorough knowledge of Problem-Solving tools (5-Why, Ishikawa/Fishbone diagrams, Fault Tree Analysis)
- SAP basic knowledge
- Advanced knowledge of GD&T
- Demonstrated skills in a matrix environment
- Strong presentation, communication and negotiation, coaching skills
- Business acumen regarding part cost structure / breakdown
- Languages: English fluent in written and speaking, Additional language proficiency, Spanish, Mandarin, is a plus.
- Willingness to travel (25-50%)