Defect Manager Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Founded in 1976, Samtec is a privately held, $1 Billion global manufacturer of a broad line of electronic interconnect solutions, including High-Speed Board-to-Board, High-Speed Cables, Mid-Board and Panel Optics, Precision RF, Flexible Stacking, and Micro/Rugged components and cables. Samtec Technology Centers are dedicated to developing and advancing technologies, strategies and products to optimize both the performance and cost of a system from the bare die to an interface 100 meters away, and all interconnect points in between. With 40+ international locations and products sold in more than 125 different countries, Samtec's global presence enables its unmatched customer service.

Summary/Objective: The Global Supplier Quality Manager is responsible for leading and improving Supplier Quality across the organization. This role drives the strategy, prioritization, and execution of processes to minimize defects in components and brokered products.

This position partners with global Quality, Engineering, Operations, and Sourcing teams to resolve quality issues, improve supplier performance, and strengthen overall quality systems both internally and externally.

Essential Functions/ Responsibilities:

1. Lead and manage the Supplier Quality Engineering (SQE) and Incoming Inspection teams to meet company quality objectives.
2. Collaborate with global SQE teams, site Quality Managers, and Sourcing teams to ensure alignment and execution of supplier quality expectations.
3. Drive supplier performance improvement, including defect reduction, root cause resolution, and verification of corrective action effectiveness.
4. Report and monitor supplier performance metrics using internal and external data.
5. Develop, implement, and maintain supplier quality systems, processes, and procedures to support quality objectives.
6. Lead supplier audits and assessments, ensuring compliance with company and industry standards.
7. Partner with Engineering, Operations, Sourcing, and other Quality teams to resolve internal and external quality issues.
8. Provide leadership in escalated cases, including Line Down issues, Scarlet orders, and other high-priority cases.
9. Provide leadership in problem-solving methodologies (8D, root cause analysis, etc.) across supplier-related issues.
10. Drive initiatives focused on continuous improvement and risk mitigation.

 "The responsibilities as defined are intended to serve as a general guideline for this position. Associates may be asked to perform additional tasks depending on strengths and capabilities."

Required Experience:

1. Bachelor's degree in engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, Materials Science, or related technical discipline).
2. Minimum of 5 years of experience in Quality, Manufacturing, or Engineering roles.
3. Minimum of 3 years leadership experience, managing teams or functional areas.
4. Ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and leadership.
5. Proven ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
6. Must be able to sit/stand for at least 90 consecutive minutes.

Preferred Experience / Desired Skills:

1. Strong knowledge of ISO 9001 or equivalent Quality Management Systems.
2. Experience with structured problem-solving methodologies (e.g., 8D).  
3. Proficiency with quality tools and methodologies, including FMEA, SPC, CpK, Gage R&R, GD&T, MSA, Lean, and DOE.
4. Strong analytical, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
5. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
6. Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to influence internal and external stakeholders.
7. Ability to manage competing priorities and make sound decisions in a fast-paced environment.
8. Experience in Process Engineering or Quality Assurance Engineering preferred.
9. Certification or working knowledge of Six Sigma / Lean methodologies
10. Familiarity with manufacturing processes such as electroplating, injection molding, metal forming/stamping, cable manufacturing, tooling, and/or semiconductor wafer fabrication.

Training required: 

1. On the job training as appropriate.