Manager, Supplier Development Engineer

Description

• Guide suppliers through prototype builds, engineering validation, pilot production, and scaling to high-volume output
• Partner with manufacturing engineering to introduce high-volume production methods and refine manufacturability
• Develop long-term supplier capability plans that reduce risk, accelerate production timelines, and incorporate emerging manufacturing technologies
• Ensure supplier documentation, inspection plans, and verification methods meet Helion’s engineering and regulatory standards
• Manage, coach, and grow a high-performing team of Supplier Development Engineers while setting priorities, resource plans, and execution frameworks to support major program milestones
• Drive systematic root cause investigations, corrective actions, and continuous improvement for supplier nonconformances
• Assess ability to assess supplier capability, identify manufacturing risks, and lead effective corrective action
• Develop and implement Helion’s supplier development strategy to strengthen supplier technical capability and readiness
• Use data, metrics, and supplier performance dashboards to guide improvements and long-term strategic decisions
• Lead supplier selection, capability assessments, and sourcing decisions in partnership with supply chain teams
• Collaborate with engineering teams to understand part and subsystem requirements and translate them into supplier manufacturing and quality expectations
• Evaluate supplier manufacturing processes, quality systems, capacity, and scalability against Helion’s requirements
• Oversee deployment of PPAP, APQP, FAI, control plans, and other qualification processes across critical suppliers

Requirements

• 7+ years of experience in supplier development, supplier quality, or manufacturing engineering, including direct experience working with and developing suppliers
• Strong background in mechanical and electrical manufacturing processes (such as machining, electromechanical assembly, PCBA fabrication, Silicon device manufacturing, and high-precision component manufacturing)
• Ability to travel up to 25% to support supplier audits, development, and ongoing supplier performance
• Deep knowledge of supplier quality methodologies (PPAP, APQP, FAI, control plans, SPC, DOE, Six Sigma)
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Material Science or a related field
• 3+ years of experience leading engineering teams or technical programs
• Experience working within quality systems such as ISO 9001, AS9100, or IATF 16949

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision plans for employees and their families
• Short term disability, long term disability, and life insurance
• Up to 5% employer 401(k) match
• 10 Paid holidays, plus company-wide winter break
• Annual wellness stipend
• 31 Days of PTO (21 vacation days and 10 sick days)
• Paid parental leave and support (up to 16 weeks)

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance