Key Responsibilities:
• Lead supplier qualification, audits, and risk assessments (VDA 6.3 / ISO 9001 / IATF 16949 frameworks).
• Review and approve PPAP documentation for BESS components (DFMEA, PFMEA, Control Plan, Dimensional Results, Process Studies, Lab Certifications, PSW).
• Support NPI activities:
o Collaborate with Engineering on DFMEA/design reviews for inverter, transformer, and battery systems.
o Ensure supplier readiness for pilot builds, ramp-up, and site deployments.
o Validate first article inspections (FAI) and track closure of open issues prior to SOP.
• Drive corrective actions (8D, RCCA) for supplier NCRs, particularly for safety-critical failures (Monitor supplier KPIs (DPPM, NCR aging, CAPA effectiveness, On-Time Delivery) with Salesforce dashboards.
• Ensure suppliers meet grid compliance and regulatory requirements (UL, IEC, CE, IEEE, NFPA, REACH, RoHS).
• Verify reliability and environmental testing (vibration, thermal cycling, humidity, salt spray) aligned with BESS operating conditions.
• Support suppliers in continuous improvement programs (Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen) to improve yield and reduce field issues.
• Partner with Service teams to close the loop from field failures to supplier process improvements.
• Manage documentation and change control in Windchill, ensuring timely submission of PPAP, PCNs, and audit evidence
• Willingness to travel domestically/Internationally up to 40%
Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Industrial Engineering, or related field.
• 5+ years of Supplier Quality or Quality Engineering experience in electrical equipment, power electronics, or energy storage.
• Experience with BESS components (inverters, transformers, HVAC, battery modules, fire suppression).
• Strong knowledge of APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans, MSA, SPC, 8D, CAPA.
• Demonstrated experience in NPI supplier engagement (prototype to ramp-up).
• Familiarity with Salesforce (NCR/CAPA tracking) and Windchill (document/change management).
• Knowledge of grid compliance standards (UL 9540A, IEEE 1547).
• Strong background in reliability and environmental validation testing.
• Experience with VDA 6.3 auditing and/or IATF 16949 preferred.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or equivalent is a plus.
• Excellent communication and ability to influence global suppliers across Americas, EMEA, APAC.
Preferred Qualifications
• Certified Supplier Quality Professional (CSQP) or a similar certification.
• Expertise in supplier risk management and capability assessments within the energy storage or electrical industry.
• Familiarity with ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and IATF 16949 quality management systems, especially within battery or energy storage manufacturing.
• Experience with welding processes and welding quality control in energy storage or related industries.