1

Supplier Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Role Overview The Supplier Development specialist's primary responsibility is to support the supplier development department in developing and implementing new parts for the assigned PE system (Motor ...

Role Overview The Supplier Development specialist's primary responsibility is to support the supplier development department in developing and implementing new parts for the assigned PE system (Motor ...

Job's mission As Director, Supplier Development at ASM, you will lead a strategic function focused on building and scaling supplier capabilities across critical commodities. This role will oversee ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Supplier Development information

See salary details

$22

$52

$83

How much do supplier development jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for supplier development in the United States is $52.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.35 and $64.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Supplier Development vs Quality Engineer?

AspectSupplier DevelopmentQuality Engineer
Primary FocusImproving supplier capabilities and performanceEnsuring product quality and compliance
Required SkillsSupplier management, process improvement, negotiationQuality control, testing, root cause analysis
Work EnvironmentSupplier sites, manufacturing plantsManufacturing facilities, labs, quality departments
CertificationsISO 9001, Six Sigma, supplier management certificationsASQ certifications, Six Sigma, quality assurance credentials

Supplier Development and Quality Engineer roles often overlap in industry but differ in focus. Supplier Development concentrates on enhancing supplier performance and capabilities, while Quality Engineers focus on maintaining and improving product quality. Both roles require similar certifications and work in manufacturing environments, but their core responsibilities target different aspects of the supply chain and product lifecycle.

What is supplier development?

Supplier development is a process where a company works closely with its suppliers to improve their performance, quality, efficiency, and capabilities. The goal is to ensure that suppliers meet the company’s requirements for quality, cost, delivery, and innovation. Activities may include training, joint improvement projects, sharing best practices, and regular performance evaluations. Effective supplier development can lead to stronger partnerships, reduced risks, and a more reliable supply chain.

How much do supplier development engineers make?

Supplier development engineers typically earn a median annual salary between $70,000 and $100,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often require skills in supply chain management, quality assurance, and engineering tools, with higher salaries available for those with advanced certifications or managerial responsibilities.

What are some typical challenges faced in a Supplier Development role, and how are they addressed?

Professionals in Supplier Development often encounter challenges such as aligning supplier capabilities with company quality standards, managing communication across different cultures or time zones, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. These challenges are typically addressed through regular supplier audits, clear performance metrics, and collaborative problem-solving sessions. Building strong relationships with suppliers and establishing open lines of communication are also key to successfully overcoming obstacles and achieving long-term supply chain goals.

What is the highest paid job in supply chain?

In supply chain management, executive roles such as Supply Chain Director or Vice President of Supply Chain tend to be the highest paid, often earning six-figure salaries. These positions require extensive experience, strategic skills, and often involve overseeing global operations and implementing advanced supply chain technologies.

What does supplier development do?

Supplier development is a role focused on improving the performance and capabilities of suppliers to ensure quality, cost efficiency, and timely delivery. It involves activities such as assessing supplier processes, providing training, and implementing continuous improvement initiatives to strengthen supply chain relationships.

Is procurement a high stress job?

Procurement roles, including supplier development, can be high stress due to tight deadlines, negotiation demands, and the need for accuracy in managing supplier relationships. Success often depends on strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to handle pressure in a fast-paced environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Supplier Development professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Supplier Development professional, you need strong analytical skills, supply chain knowledge, and experience in quality management, often supported by a degree in engineering, supply chain, or a related field. Familiarity with ERP systems, supplier relationship management tools, and certifications like Six Sigma or APICS are typically valuable. Excellent negotiation, communication, and problem-solving skills help build productive supplier partnerships and drive continuous improvement. These skills are crucial for ensuring supplier performance, cost-effectiveness, and the overall competitiveness of the business.
More about Supplier Development jobs
What cities are hiring for Supplier Development jobs? Cities with the most Supplier Development job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Supplier Development jobs? The most popular types of Supplier Development jobs are:
What states have the most Supplier Development jobs? States with the most job openings for Supplier Development jobs include:
Infographic showing various Supplier Development job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,213 per year, or $53 per hour.
Supplier Development Engineer

Supplier Development Engineer

Third Party International Inc.

Seattle, WA • On-site

$45 - $55/hr

Part-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Supplier Development Engineer, Aerospace Manufacturing
Location: Seattle, WA metro area
Rate: $45-55/hr
Company: Third Party International
Engagement: Part time Consultant
Travel: Up to 25 percent
Third Party International is seeking a Supplier Development Engineer to support aerospace manufacturing clients with supplier performance, qualification, and continuous improvement. This role is ideal for a hands on engineer with experience in high precision machined parts who can work directly with suppliers to improve quality, delivery, and process capability.
About the Role
You will serve as the technical interface between the client and key suppliers. You will assess supplier capabilities, lead improvement plans, support qualification of new sources, and drive corrective actions tied to quality and delivery issues. Work includes on site supplier engagement, data driven problem solving, and coordination with internal engineering, quality, and supply chain teams.
Key Responsibilities
  •  Qualify new suppliers including capability assessments, process reviews, and readiness planning 
  •  Lead supplier development activities to improve on time delivery, reduce escapes, and strengthen process control 
  •  Drive corrective actions using structured methods such as 8D, 5 Why, and root cause analysis 
  •  Support APQP, PPAP, FAI, control plans, and inspection planning as applicable to the commodity 
  •  Review drawings and specifications and ensure technical and quality requirements are correctly flowed down and understood 
  •  Monitor supplier performance metrics and lead recurring performance reviews and recovery plans 
  •  Partner with internal teams across supply chain, engineering, and quality to align supplier actions to program needs 
  •  Support audits and supplier surveillance activities as required 
Required Qualifications
  •  Five or more years of supplier development, supplier quality, manufacturing engineering, or related experience 
  •  Direct experience with either high precision machined parts or printed circuit board manufacturing 
  •  Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, inspection methods, and process controls 
  •  Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and apply GD and T where applicable 
  •  Experience with first article packages, inspection plans, and supplier documentation control 
  •  Strong communication skills and comfort working directly with suppliers on site 
  •  Ability to travel up to 25 percent 
Preferred Qualifications
  •  Experience in aerospace manufacturing environments and familiarity with AS9100 expectations 
  •  Experience with special processes, critical characteristics, and traceability requirements 
  •  Six Sigma or lean tools experience 
  •  Background supporting supplier transfers, resourcing, or capacity expansion 
About Third Party International
Third Party International thirdparty.biz provides engineering, quality, and supply chain professionals to aerospace and defense manufacturers across the United States. We deploy experienced consultants to stabilize supplier performance, support new source qualification, and improve execution across the supply base.
If you have strong supplier development experience with precision machining and you are interested in a consulting opportunity through Third Party International, we invite you to apply.