Process Improvement Manager Jobs in Rochester, MN

Description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) is responsible for ensuring supplier performance meets Domaille Engineering's quality, cost, and delivery expectations in a high-precision manufacturing environment supporting aerospace and defense contract manufacturing. This role serves as the primary technical liaison between suppliers and internal teams, including Quality, Engineering, Purchasing, and Project Management. 

The SQE drives supplier development, resolves quality and delivery issues, and leads continuous improvement initiatives across the supply base. This position requires consistent travel to supplier sites to conduct audits, support corrective actions, and strengthen supplier process capabilities. 

ITAR REQUIREMENTS

This position is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), which restricts access to export-controlled information to U.S. persons. A U.S. person is generally defined as a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent resident, or others specifically authorized under U.S. export regulations. General work authorization (e.g., work permit or EAD) or visa sponsorship does not meet ITAR requirements.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Supplier Quality & Compliance

• Serve as the primary quality and technical interface between our company and assigned suppliers.
• Conduct supplier audits, assessments, and process reviews to evaluate manufacturing capabilities and quality systems.
• Evaluate supplier manufacturing processes, tooling, fixtures, and process controls to ensure compliance with requirements.
• Lead and support supplier corrective actions (SCARs), root cause analysis, and verification of effective implementation.
• Ensure compliance with applicable aerospace and defense quality requirements and customer specifications.
• Maintain accurate documentation of supplier performance, audits, and corrective actions.

Supplier Development & Continuous Improvement

• Drive supplier performance improvements using metrics, scorecards, site visits, and structured continuous improvement activities. 
• Support development and qualification of new and existing suppliers to meet cost, quality, and delivery expectations. 
• Collaborate with suppliers to improve manufacturing processes and resolve quality and delivery issues. 
• Apply lean manufacturing and quality tools (e.g., SPC, 5S, value stream mapping, Six Sigma concepts) to improve supplier performance. 
• Analyze supplier data and trends to identify risks, performance gaps, and improvement opportunities.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Collaborate with Purchasing, Engineering, Quality, and Project Management to support new product introductions and supplier readiness. 
• Communicate supplier status, risks, and escalation items to internal stakeholders in a timely manner.

Requirements

SKILL REQUIREMENTS

• Skilled with Microsoft Office Suite (including Excel) and ERP systems such as Global Shop.  
• Strong prioritization with the ability to multi-task in a fast-paced production environment.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple suppliers and priorities simultaneously.
• Strong problem-solving and root cause analysis skills with keen attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and supplier relationship management skills with the ability to influence and drive accountability with external suppliers.
• Collaborate well cross-functionally with project managers, materials procurement, design, process development, quality, and customers. 
• Demonstrate a hands-on, self-starting attitude with strong interpersonal and technical skills. 

QUALIFICATIONS

• At least two years of experience in quality engineering, process engineering, supplier engineering, or a closely related field, or an equivalent combination of education and hands-on manufacturing/engineering experience; a degree in Quality, Mechanical, Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain or a related field is preferred.
• Experience in supplier audits, corrective actions, and process improvement initiatives.
• Experience in inspection processes and metrology, calibration, and maintaining measurement systems.
• Familiarity with process control, statistical methods, advanced inspection techniques, GD&T, and blueprint reading.
• Knowledge of quality management systems and ISO 9001, AS9100, ISO 13485, FDA, ANSI, or MIL standards.
• Experience in the machining industry is preferred, particularly job shop machining with knowledge in the design and selection of fixturing and tooling for complex part setups and multiple prints.
• Willingness and ability to travel approximately 30% of the time, primarily to supplier locations.
• Possess a valid driver's license, meet company driving record requirements, and have a reliable personal vehicle for business-related travel, as needed.

BENEFITS START DAY 1

• Generous paid time off + 10 paid holidays (including your birthday) 
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• HSA, FSA, Dependent Care FSA options
• Life Insurance & long-term disability
• Minnesota Paid Family & Medical Leave benefits
• 401(k) with company match 
• Employee Assistance Program 
• Additional supplemental offerings

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• This is a hybrid role with approximately 8 in-office days per month and the balance of time remote and traveling in support of supplier and business needs.
• Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, and composite or steel-toe shoes, must be worn as required. 
• The work environment features standard plant lighting, operating machinery, and typical ambient conditions associated with a manufacturing facility.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Sit or stand as needed.
• Walking primarily on a level surface for periods throughout the day.
• Reaching above shoulder height, below the waist, or lifting as required to reach documents or store materials throughout the workday.
• Proper lifting techniques required.

SAFETY COMPLIANCE

All employees are expected to understand and follow the Company's safety policies and procedures while performing their job responsibilities. Employees must comply with hazardous waste handling and disposal procedures as required. Adherence to these practices helps protect employees, the workplace, and supports the Company's business objectives.  

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Domaille Engineering is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All terms and conditions of employment are administered without regard to an individual's race, color, religion/creed, national origin, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

NOTE: This job description outlines the general nature and level of work for this position and is not all-inclusive. Duties may change as business needs evolve, and employees may be asked to perform other related tasks. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Employment is at-will and nothing in this description creates or implies a contract.