Supplier Development Engineer (Aerospace / Defense Industry)

About the role

• Position Title: Supplier Development Engineer
• Location: Dayton OH
• Industry: Aerospace / Defense
• Experience Level: 1-5+ Years
• Education: Bachelor’s Degree Required

Position Overview

We are seeking a driven and analytical Supplier Development Engineer (SDE) to support supplier performance and risk mitigation initiatives within our Aerospace / Defense programs. This role will focus on strengthening supplier quality systems, improving manufacturing processes, and proactively mitigating risk through structured methodologies such as DFMEA and PFMEA.

This is an excellent opportunity for early-to-mid, or senior career engineers (1-5+ years of experience) who have a strong foundation in quality engineering and supplier collaboration in a regulated manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

Partner with suppliers to improve quality, delivery, and manufacturing performance

Support supplier qualification, development, and ongoing performance management

• Conduct on-site supplier assessments and audits as required
• Lead and support risk analysis activities using DFMEA (Design Failure Mode & Effects Analysis) and PFMEA (Process Failure Mode & Effects Analysis) methodologies
• Drive corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) stemming from supplier quality issues
• Perform root cause analysis using structured problem-solving tools (8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone, etc.)
• Review technical drawings, specifications, and process documentation to ensure compliance
• Support First Article Inspections (FAI) and production readiness reviews
• Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and Manufacturing teams to mitigate supply chain risk

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Aerospace, Industrial, Manufacturing, or related discipline)
• 1-5+ years of experience in Supplier Quality, Supplier Development, Quality Engineering, or Manufacturing Engineering
• Familiarity with DFMEA and PFMEA methodologies
• Experience working in a regulated manufacturing environment (Aerospace, Defense, Automotive, or similar)
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications (GD&T knowledge preferred)
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and supplier-facing skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in Aerospace or Defense manufacturing
• Familiarity with AS9100 or ISO 9001 standards
• Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma experience

• Experience working with machining, electronics, composites, or precision manufacturing suppliers
• Willingness to travel to supplier sites as needed

What We Offer

• Opportunity to support mission-critical Aerospace / Defense programs
• Exposure to complex supply chain and engineering challenges
• Career growth within supplier quality and operations leadership

Competitive compensation and benefits