Lead, Supplier Quality Engineer

Design and launch Northwood’s first supplier quality management system, from process design to documentation and continuous improvement

Shape the supply base: Identify, qualify, and develop world-class suppliers for RF, PCBA, mechanical, and electromechanical components

Lead audits, performance reviews, and corrective actions that elevate quality and delivery across our network

Partner closely with design, manufacturing, and operations on DFM, NPI, and pilot builds - ensuring every part is production-ready

Define supplier KPIs (quality, cost, responsiveness) and implement real-time visibility tools that drive accountability and progress

Act as the technical and quality liaison between internal engineering and external suppliers - turning insights into scalable, repeatable success

Drive supplier readiness for production ramp-ups and capacity expansions as Northwood grows around the world

Lead root cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions (NCR/CAPA) to eliminate defects and strengthen design for manufacturability

Partner with suppliers on process improvements that cut costs, reduce cycle times, and maximize yields

Establish quality requirements and flow downs that ensure every product built by our partners reflects Northwood’s commitment to excellence

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial Engineering, or related field

7+ years in Supplier Quality, Supplier Development, or Manufacturing Quality roles

Experience with quality standards and tools (e.g., ISO 9001, AS9100, PPAP)

A track record of building or scaling quality systems in low-to-medium volume, high-complexity environments

Proven success qualifying and managing suppliers and driving measurable performance improvement

Willingness to travel up to 25% domestically and internationally to engage with our global supply network

Experience in an AS9100 environment

Background in aerospace, satellite, telecommunications, or defense industries

Hands-on experience with RF, PCBA, custom enclosures, or electromechanical assemblies

Familiarity with ERP, PLM, or digital quality management systems

Experience supporting early-stage product development through production ramp

Lean Six Sigma or similar certifications

Strong data fluency - proficiency with SQL or analytics tools for supplier and quality insights