Supplier Development Engineer (with Purchasing Responsibilities)

Location: Dover, NH

Reports to: Director of Supply Chain

About Q, LLC

Q, LLC is a privately owned, New Hampshire-based leader in modern firearms innovation and manufacturing. With rapid growth and a commitment to excellence, we are seeking a driven and detail-oriented Supplier Development Engineer (with Purchasing Responsibilities) to support supplier growth, strengthen our supply chain, and manage sourcing for both prototype and production needs.

Position Summary

The Supplier Development Engineer (SDE) with Purchasing Responsibilities is a hybrid role that combines supplier quality, sourcing execution, and supply chain development. This position plays a critical role in identifying, qualifying, and improving suppliers while also handling day-to-day purchasing tasks such as issuing purchase orders, tracking delivery performance, and coordinating supplier communications. This individual will work cross-functionally with Engineering, Quality, and Production to ensure supplier performance aligns with Q's high standards of cost, quality, delivery, and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

Supplier Development

Qualify and onboard new suppliers based on quality, capacity, and capability Conduct supplier audits and performance evaluations Drive continuous improvement at supplier facilities using Lean, Six Sigma, or APQP tools Collaborate on tooling, process improvements, and capacity planning Lead corrective action and recovery plans as needed

Purchasing / Procurement

Create and manage purchase orders for production and prototype materials Track open orders, manage supplier communications, and ensure on-time delivery Negotiate pricing, payment terms, and lead times in line with company policy Support cost-saving initiatives via sourcing, resourcing, and value engineering Maintain accurate supplier data in ERP/MRP systems

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Coordinate with Engineering, Quality, and Production teams to meet sourcing and production goals Support New Product Introduction (NPI) with supplier readiness plans Participate in design reviews and provide sourcing insights Resolve supplier issues related to delivery, quality, or capacity constraints

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, or Technical field 3-7 years of experience in supplier development, procurement, or quality engineering Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes (machining, casting, plastics, electronics, etc.) Familiarity with ISO 9001, AS9100, IATF 16949, or similar quality systems Experience with ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office Ability to read technical drawings and understand specs Strong negotiation and project management skills Willingness to travel to supplier sites (up to 25%)

Qualifications

APICS CPIM/CSCP, Six Sigma Green Belt, or PMP certification Familiarity with PPAP, FMEA, SPC, and control plans Experience in regulated industries (aerospace, automotive, medical device, etc.)

The Company reserves the right to conduct background investigations and/or reference checks on all of its potential employees as well as a drug screening.