Supplier Quality Engineer
Summary
Oversees and improves quality standards for semiconductor backend suppliers, ensuring compliance with automotive and manufacturing processes like IATF 16949 and APQP/PPAP.
Backend Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) is responsible for managing and improving quality performance of backend manufacturing suppliers and subcontractors including both internal manufacturing lines (captive lines) and external OSAT suppliers, material suppliers, and service providers supporting semiconductor backend operations. This role will be responsible for supplier quality management, product and process control, APQP/ PPAP readiness, audit execution, change management, and driving continuous improvement. The SQE will serve as the key quality interface between internal stakeholders, manufacturing partners, and suppliers to drive robust process control, risk reduction, zero-defect execution, and customer satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities:
Serve as the primary quality interface for assigned internal manufacturing line (captive line) and OSAT suppliers.
Drive supplier quality performance through KPI monitoring, scorecards, corrective action follow-up, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Lead supplier qualification, process audits, and compliance reviews to ensure alignment with company standards and customer requirements.
Review and approve Process Flow, PFMEA, Control Plan, Work Instructions, and inspections for manufacturing readiness.
Support APQP/ PPAP/ Safe Launch/ Change Management activities for new products, new technologies and process/ product changes.
Lead supplier issue resolution using structures problem-solving methodologies (8D, 5-why, Fishbone, DOE, statistical analysis).
Ensure robust implementation of MSA, SPC, process capability monitoring, reaction plans, and control effectiveness verification.
Coordinate containment, root cause investigation, and corrective/ preventive actions for quality excursions.
Support internal, supplier and customer audits, including closure of findings.
Partner cross-functionally with Engineering, Operations, Reliability, Purchasing, and Program teams to drive quality excellence.
Monitor supplier risk and provide regular quality performance updates to management.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering (Electrical Engineering/ Electronics Engineering/ Mechanical Engineering/ Material Engineering/ Manufacturing Engineering/ Quality Engineering) or related field.
Minimum 5 years of experience in Supplier Quality/ Manufacturing Quality/ Process Quality.
Experience working with OSAT partners and/ or semiconductor backend manufacturing processes.
Strong understanding of IATF 16949/ ISO 9001 quality system.
Understanding of VDA requirements.
Working knowledge of AIAG Core Tools (APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plan, SPC, MSA).
Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
Ability to manage multiple suppliers, projects, and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Preferred:
Automotive semiconductor quality experience.
Auditor certification (Lead Auditor/ Internal Auditor).
Six Sigma Green Belt/ Black Belt/ CQE certification.
Experience in Wafer Probe, Burn-In, Assembly/ Test, or OSAT manufacturing environment.
Familiarity with customer audits and supplier development programs.