Supplier Quality Engineer

About Our Company 

Diode Dynamics is a manufacturer of automotive LED lighting and accessories. Located in St. Charles, Missouri, our innovative products and superior service are rapidly making us one of the leading companies in the industry. To learn more, please visit our website at http://www.diodedynamics.com.

Job Description 

As a Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) at Diode Dynamics, you will proactively manage and elevate supplier quality across our supply chain for automotive LED lighting components and assemblies. You will lead supplier development, qualification, and audits while collaborating with Engineering, Purchasing, and Production teams to ensure high standards from sourcing through production. You will drive continuous improvement in supplier processes and performance, helping us maintain exceptional product quality in a fast-paced, growing environment. You will become a key member of our quickly-expanding team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead supplier selection, qualification, and development activities, including on-site audits, capability assessments, and approval for the Approved Vendor List (AVL).
• Conduct regular supplier audits and process reviews to ensure compliance with Diode Dynamics quality standards, APQP, and industry requirements.
• Collaborate with the Engineering team during new product development (NPI) to define supplier quality requirements, support PPAP submissions, and ensure robust supplier processes from the start.
• Monitor and analyze supplier performance metrics, identify improvement opportunities, and work directly with suppliers on process enhancements, risk mitigation, and preventive actions.
• Develop and maintain supplier quality standards, documentation, and improvement plans, including training or guidance for suppliers on quality tools and best practices.
• Support initial sourcing by working with the Purchasing team on RFQs, technical reviews, and quality evaluations for new components.
• Provide proactive guidance to Production and Receiving Inspection on supplier-related quality topics and help resolve any emerging issues with a focus on root cause prevention.
• Track and report on supplier quality performance to management, driving data-based decisions for continuous improvement across the supply chain.

Qualifications:

• BS in Engineering.
• Chinese language fluency is preferred, but not required.
• Ability to travel internationally 4-6 times per year for supplier visits and audits.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in supplier quality, quality engineering, or manufacturing engineering in an automotive production environment. Experience in LED lighting or electronics manufacturing is a strong plus.
• Thorough knowledge of APQP, PPAP, PFMEA, DFMEA, and supplier auditing processes.
• Proven ability to conduct effective supplier audits and drive proactive quality improvements.
• Self-starter with strong analytical and critical thinking skills; able to work independently to achieve goals.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across teams and with external suppliers.
• Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail and strong project management abilities.
• Hands-on mindset and willingness to travel for supplier visits as needed.
• Automotive enthusiast or industry experience is a plus.
• On-site attendance required. Working hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 am – 4 pm.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• 80% company-paid health, dental, and vision plans effective the 1st of the month after your start date.
• 100% company-paid life insurance and short-term disability plans.
• 401(k): Full match up to 4% salary, eligible after 90 days of employment.
• Student loan repayment program.
• Annual product allowance.
• Onsite fitness center, open 24/7.
• All major holidays off and paid (9 days per year).
• Paid time off and parental leave.
• Employee profit-sharing plan: Up to 5% of salary as bonus possible, based on financial performance.
• Relocation package available for qualified candidates.