engineering
Posted Apr 10Supplier Quality Engineer - Composites
at Saronic
Austin, United StatesOn-site
Responsibilities
- Lead structured problem-solving using methods such as 8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagrams, and FMEA to identify root causes and drive effective corrective and preventive actions.
- Technical Quality Control - Validate and monitor supplier processes for composite part fabrication, including: - Mold preparation, release application, and surface integrity - Gelcoat and laminate layup consistency (resin-to-fiber ratios, air entrapment control) - Curing, demolding, trimming, and finishing - Bonding and secondary assembly operations - Dimensional and visual inspections (surface finish, thickness, weight verification) Implement and monitor key process metrics using statistical process
- Ensure supplier adherence to Saronic workmanship and composite quality standards.
- Supplier Quality Assurance (Audits & Assessments) - Plan and conduct supplier quality audits and process assessments for composite manufacturing operations.
- Evaluate compliance with relevant quality management standards (e.g., ISO 9001, AS9100) and marine composite best practices.
- Track supplier performance via scorecards (defect rates, on-time delivery, rework trends) and partner with suppliers to close quality gaps.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives and verify corrective action completion.
- Develop and deliver regular reports on supplier quality metrics and improvement status to management and cross-functional teams.
- Support design for manufacturability (DFM) and quality (DFQ) reviews.
- Train internal and supplier personnel on composite quality standards, inspection techniques, and defect prevention.
- Collaborate with suppliers to implement standard work, visual controls, and other improved processes.
- Ensure supplier adherence to Saronic’s material qualification, traceability, and documentation standards.
- Support compliance with applicable defense and marine quality requirements.
- Review manufacturing readiness, process control, material handling, and quality management systems.
- Conduct audits and first article inspections to ensure new suppliers meet Saronic’s standards for consistency, repeatability, and documentation.
Requirements
- QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Materials Science, Manufacturing, or related field (or equivalent experience). - 3+ years of
- experience in supplier quality, composites manufacturing, or marine production. - Strong understanding of open-mold composite manufacturing methods (hand layup, spray-up, vacuum infusion). - Familiarity with marine composite materials such as fiberglass, carbon fiber, core materials, resins, and gelcoats. - Knowledge of quality management systems and methodologies (ISO 9001, AS9100, APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans). - Demonstrated
- experience with supplier audits, process validation, and root cause analysis (8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone). - Proficiency in SPC, inspection techniques, and data-driven quality metrics. - Excellent communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills for supplier and cross-functional engagement. - Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with ERP or QMS software (SAP, Oracle, etc.). - Ability to travel to supplier sites as needed. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS -
- Experience with advanced composite manufacturing methods (e.g., prepreg layup, autoclave, oven-cure, resin transfer molding). - Certification in Quality or Supplier Management (CQE, Six Sigma Green/Black Belt, or similar). -
- Experience in a regulated or defense-related industry (aerospace, marine, defense). - Working knowledge of NADCAP, ASTM standards, or MIL-STD composite quality requirements.
Benefits
- BENEFITS - Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of services - Saronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents - Dental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision care - Saronic pays 99% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents - Time Off: Generous PTO and Holidays - Parental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parents - Competitive Salary: Industry-standard salaries with
Contact
- Person”: (1) U.S. citizens, (2) legal permanent residents (a.k.a. green card holders), and (3) certain protected classes of asylees and refugees, as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) https://www.govinfo.gov/link/uscode/8/1324b.
Additional details
- Saronic Technologies is a leader in revolutionizing autonomy at sea, dedicated to developing state-of-the-art solutions that enhance maritime operations through autonomous and intelligent platforms.
- JOB OVERVIEW The Supplier Quality Engineer (Composites) is responsible for ensuring that composite hulls, structures, and components produced by suppliers meet Saronic’s quality, performance, and durability requirements.
- This role focuses on open-mold and closed-mold (e.g., hand layup, spray-up, vacuum infusion) composite manufacturing processes used in marine environments.
- Collaboration with internal teams, including design, engineering, quality, manufacturing, and supply chain, is essential to maintain high standards of workmanship and material integrity for mission-critical maritime systems.
- RESPONSIBILITIES Problem Solving & Root Cause Analysis and Corrective Actions - Investigate supplier nonconformance's such as voids, delamination, resin-rich/lean areas, cosmetic defects, or dimensional deviations.
- Verify corrective action effectiveness through follow-up inspections and process audits.
- Quality Documentation and Reporting - Maintain detailed records of supplier audits, inspection results, corrective actions, and quality trends.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration - Work closely with engineering, procurement, and production teams to ensure material specifications, design requirements, and supplier capabilities are aligned.
- Provide technical guidance on composite layup strategies, bonding processes, and finishing methods.
- Continuous Improvement Initiatives - Lead or support Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen projects targeting improved composite process repeatability, reduced scrap, and enhanced material utilization.