Lead Supplier Development Engineer

1 Resource Group is seeking an experienced Lead Supplier Development Engineer to drive supplier performance quality and process compliance across the supply chain in Columbus Mississippi. This role plays a critical part in strengthening supplier capabilities supporting industrialization efforts and ensuring alignment with company standards and operational goals.

This position reports directly to the EVP Americas with a functional reporting line to the Supply Chain Manager.

Key Responsibilities

Strategy & Planning

• Co-develop and execute strategic supplier development plans in collaboration with Procurement and SDE teams
• Define objectives and drive continuous improvement initiatives across the supplier base

Supplier Audits

• Conduct supplier audits to evaluate performance delivery and reliability
• Ensure compliance with company quality standards and processes

Supplier Onboarding & Industrialization

• Lead supplier onboarding activities including readiness and industrialization of components and services
• Ensure suppliers meet program timelines quality expectations and production requirements

Quality Management

• Promote and support APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) processes
• Ensure compliance with PPAP (Production Part Approval Process) requirements

Performance Monitoring

• Develop and track KPIs related to supplier performance and industrialization (e.g. process capability defect rates)
• Identify risks and implement corrective actions

Problem Solving

• Lead structured problem-solving efforts using methodologies such as 8D and 5-Why
• Drive resolution of supplier-related quality and process issues

Collaboration

• Work cross-functionally with internal teams and external suppliers to improve performance and processes
• Advise Category Managers on supplier development strategies and initiatives

Additional Responsibilities

• Manage and monitor tooling at supplier locations
• Support continuous improvement and cost optimization initiatives

Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Engineering Supply Chain or related field (preferred)
• 5 years of experience in supplier development quality engineering or manufacturing
• Strong understanding of production processes quality systems and supply chain operations
• Experience with ISO 9001 or similar quality standards

Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and data-driven decision-making skills
• Strategic thinking with the ability to develop and execute long-term plans
• Solid commercial awareness and understanding of cost drivers
• Excellent communication presentation and stakeholder management skills
• Proven ability to lead projects and manage multiple priorities
• Strong organizational and time management skills

Work Environment & Travel

This role is primarily office-based but includes regular exposure to manufacturing and supplier environments.

• Frequent domestic and international travel required for supplier visits audits and project support
• May involve extended periods of sitting computer work and occasional physical activity during site visits

Benefits

• 10 Paid Holidays
• 3 Weeks of Vacation
• Paid Medical Time
• Bereavement Leave
• Health Insurance
• 401(k) / Roth Options with Employer Match
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Employer-Paid Life Insurance
• Voluntary Insurance Options

Additional Information

This job description is intended to outline the primary responsibilities of the role and is not exhaustive. Additional duties may be assigned as needed to support business objectives.

Apply Today

If youre ready to take ownership of supplier performance and drive real impact across the supply chain apply now to join 1 Resource Group.