Full job descriptionWe are seeking an experienced and proactive Supplier Development Engineer to join a manufacturing business in Bradford on a 6-month FTC. This role will play a key part in driving supplier quality performance, supporting continuous improvement initiatives, and ensuring customer requirements are consistently achieved throughout the supply chain.
The successful candidate will work closely with suppliers and internal stakeholders to develop robust quality systems, manage supplier performance, and support new product introduction activities through APQP and PPAP processes. You will be responsible for leading supplier audits, managing non-conformance and corrective action activities, supporting cost recovery processes, and driving effective problem-solving using structured methodologies such as 8D.
This is an excellent opportunity for a quality professional with strong technical knowledge, leadership capability, and a passion for continuous improvement to make a significant impact within a dynamic engineering and manufacturing business.
Key Responsibilities:*Develop and maintain strong supplier relationships to ensure quality, delivery, and performance expectations are achieved.
*Support supplier selection, APQP, PPAP, and product launch activities.
*Conduct supplier audits and drive improvement plans where required.
*Manage supplier non-conformance, corrective actions, and change management activities.
*Review technical documentation including drawings, PFMEA, control plans, process flow diagrams, and capability studies.
*Monitor supplier KPIs and ensure compliance with industry and internal quality standards.
*Escalate critical supplier quality concerns in a timely and structured manner.
*Promote continuous improvement and support best practice quality processes across the supply chain.
About You: *Degree qualified in Engineering, Science, Business, or a related discipline.
*Previous experience within supplier quality, supplier development, or manufacturing quality engineering.
*Strong understanding of APQP, PPAP, PFMEA, Control Plans, and problem-solving methodologies.
*Trained internal or lead auditor with knowledge of IATF 16949 / TS16949 standards.
*Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and problem-solving skills.
*Proficient in Microsoft Office applications including Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
*Previous leadership or mentoring experience would be advantageous.