Sr. Supplier Quality Engineer

We are a world-class team of professionals who deliver next generation technology and products in robotic and autonomous platforms, ground, soldier, and maritime systems in 50+ locations world-wide. Much of our work contributes to innovative research in the fields of sensor science, signal processing, data fusion, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and augmented reality (AR).

QinetiQ US’s dedicated experts in defense, aerospace, security, and related fields all work together to explore new ways of protecting the American Warfighter, Security Forces, and Allies. Being a part of QinetiQ US means being central to the safety and security of the world around us. Partnering with our customers, we help save lives; reduce risks to society; and maintain the global infrastructure on which we all depend.

Why Join QinetiQ US?

If you have the courage to take on a wide variety of complex challenges, then you will experience a unique working environment where innovative teams blend different perspectives, disciplines, and technologies to discover new ways of solving complex problems.  In our diverse and inclusive environment, you can be authentic, feel valued, be respected, and realize your full potential. QinetiQ US will support you with workplace flexibility, a commitment to the health and well-being of you and your family and provide opportunities to work with a purpose. We are committed to supporting your success in both your professional and personal lives.

We are seeking a highly skilled Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) to join our team. As a key contributor to our defense systems supply chain, you will be responsible for ensuring the quality and compliance of components and sub-assemblies provided by external suppliers. This role involves working across a broad range of technologies—including formed and machined components, rugged electromechanical assemblies, robotics, and high-precision optical systems—used in critical defense and military applications.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in quality systems, supplier development, and regulatory compliance in a defense or aerospace environment. You will drive supplier performance, support new product introduction, and ensure that purchased parts meet all technical and contractual requirements.

• Audit and assess suppliers for compliance with AS9100, ISO 9001, DFARS, ITAR, and flowed-down PO quality clauses.
• Evaluate supplier capabilities—including CNC machining, forming, welding, electro-mechanical integration—and alignment with technical and programmatic requirements.
• Assess how suppliers manage special process controls, whether performed in-house or sub-contracted.
• Lead efforts in supplier returns, corrective actions, root cause analysis (RCA), and preventive actions for recurring or systemic quality issues.
• Partner closely with Engineering, Supply Chain, and Purchasing to resolve technical, quality, and delivery issues from NPI through full-rate production.
• Monitor supplier performance metrics (e.g., PPM, OTIF, audit findings) and drive continuous improvement initiatives where risk or gaps are identified.
• Ensure traceability, documentation accuracy, and compliance with all contractual and regulatory requirements.
• Foster strong, trust-based relationships with suppliers—balancing formal audit responsibilities with collaborative, low-volume, high-complexity program support.

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, quality, or a related technical field.
• 3–5+ years of supplier quality or manufacturing quality experience in a defense, aerospace, or similarly regulated industry.
• Deep knowledge of mechanical assemblies
• Proficient in interpreting technical drawings and GD&T.
• Thrives in low-volume, high-complexity environments where relationship-building and influence are more critical than leverage-based oversight.
• Familiarity with AS9100, ISO 9001, and defense contract flow-downs.
• ERP and QMS systems experience.
• Willingness to travel for supplier audits and evaluations.

• ASQ CQE or CSQP certification preferred.
• Experience with quality tools: FMEA, 8D, PPAP, SPC, MSA, and Six Sigma.

Accessibility/Accommodation:

If because of a medical condition or disability you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to staffing@us.QinetiQ.com or call (540) 658-2720 Opt. 4 and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.

QinetiQ US is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All Qualified Applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.