Supplier Quality Engineer

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on uncrewed systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology. We leverage proven, cutting-edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost-effective solutions to market.

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY

The Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) is responsible for ensuring that purchased materials, components, and services consistently meet established quality standards and regulatory requirements. This role serves as the primary technical interface between the company and its suppliers, driving continuous improvement in supplier performance. Key duties typically include evaluating and approving suppliers, conducting audits, resolving supplier-related quality issues, analyzing defect trends, implementing corrective and preventive actions (CAPA), and supporting new product introductions by validating supplier processes. The SQE works cross?functionally with engineering, manufacturing, procurement, and quality teams to maintain robust incoming quality and strengthen the overall supply chain.

ESSENTIAL JOB

FUNCTIONSMachining Process & Supplier Capability AssessmentEvaluate supplier capability in precision machining processes, including:

Multi-axis CNC machiningTurning, milling, grinding, and finishing operationsHigh-precision aerospace componentsAssess supplier ability to meet:

Dimensional tolerances (GD&T)Surface finish requirementsCritical feature controlRegulatory requirementsReview machining strategies, tooling approaches, and process controlsSupport supplier selection based on technical manufacturing capabilityMaterial Science & Special Process OversightEvaluate and ensure compliance with material requirements including:

Aerospace alloys (nickel-based, stainless, titanium, etc.)Heat treatment processesCoatings and surface treatmentsMaterial certifications and traceabilityVerify suppliers maintain proper control of:

Material lot traceabilityCertification documentation (MTRs, C of C)Special processes and approved vendorsSupport failure analysis related to:

Material defectsheat treatment issuesmetallurgical anomaliesEngineering Drawing & Specification InterpretationInterpret engineering drawings including:

GD&T and tolerance stack-upsCritical-to-quality featuresSurface finish and geometric requirementsEnsure suppliers fully understand technical requirements prior to productionSupport technical discussions between Engineering and suppliers regarding manufacturability and process capabilitySupplier Quality Management & PerformanceMonitor supplier performance for:

Product quality and defect ratesEvaluate supplier (SPC) data for process capability and repeatabilityResponsiveness to quality issuesMaintain supplier scorecardsNonconformance, Root Cause & Corrective ActionLead supplier-related NCRs and SCARs, with focus on:

Drive root cause analysis (RCCA) using structured methods:8D5 WhysFishboneValidate corrective actions at both process and system levelsEnsure permanent resolution of recurring issuesFirst Article Inspection (FAI) & Process ValidationReview FAI packages (AS9102)Support validation of new suppliers, processes, and design changesIncoming Inspection & Quality Verification SupportSupport development of inspection / control plans for critical machined componentsReview inspection results, CMM data, and dimensional reportsEnsure traceability between:

Materialmachining processesinspection dataPartner with internal Quality and Manufacturing teams on acceptance criteriaEngineering, Manufacturing & Supply Chain IntegrationCollaborate with Design and Product Engineering on:

Manufacturability of componentsTolerance feasibilityPartner with Supply Chain on:technical supplier selectionsupplier risk evaluationSupport Manufacturing with supplier-related production issuesConfiguration Control & Digital Thread AlignmentEnsure supplier-delivered components align with:

Correct drawing revisionsApproved configurationsControlled documentationSupport traceability across:

PLM/PDM (design definition)ERP/MRP (material and purchasing)QMS (quality records and

NCR/CAPA

)Ensure all internal supplier documentation is audit-ready and AS9100 compliantSupplier Development & Continual ImprovementDrive improvement initiatives focused on:machining capabilityprocess controldefect reductionlead time improvementDevelop suppliers toward higher capability levels for aerospace manufacturingSupport strategic supplier development and long-term partnerships

SUPERVISORY

RESPONSIBILITYNo direct supervisory responsibilityLeads supplier quality activities and cross-functional initiatives

Keyword:

Quality Engineering, supplier assessment, process oversight, root cause analysis, AS9100D, AS9102, AS9145, aerospace, defense

Required Experience:

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS

& ABILITIESRequiredStrong knowledge of precision machining processes and manufacturing methodsUnderstanding of material science and metallurgy relevant to aerospace componentsAbility to interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and specificationsWorking... For full info follow application link. Kratos is an Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer EOE/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disabled. All qualified job seekers are encouraged to apply. Kratos is committed to America's veterans by providing opportunities for them to continue contributing after service to our nation. We also work to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.