Source Inspection Lead

SQA protects through quality. We have a global footprint that supports complex and highly regulated supply chains. The partnerships SQA has created over the past 29 years have benefitted our clients’ integrated strategies, which SQA can support on an annual basis. SQA works with its client partners and their supply chain in over 90 countries annually, deploying over 1000 associates. SQA understands the complexity and challenges of a global supply chain and our clients see that the results from SQA exceed their internal efficiencies. Annually, SQA performs over 3,000 audits, 3 million parts inspected at the source, and 70,000 hours of Engineering Supplier Development. This occurs in the form of managed programs at their suppliers that include, but may not be limited to, audits, assessments, supplier development, part approvals, inspection, remediation, self-release, and full-time surveillance. 

Overview: 

As a Source Inspection Technical Lead at SQA Services, you will play a pivotal role in supporting and managing the technical aptitude and performance of a remote team of quality source inspectors including their initial selection and qualification, remediation of gaps in their inspection methods and process and deliverable monitoring. The role is key to create a scorecard for the associate care team and create a development plan for the associates/inspectors.     

Primary Responsibilities: 

Assuring SI managed program conformity of customer purchased parts to purchase order requirements by verifying supplier-provided documentation, checking parts for damage, correct part numbers, revisions, quantities, trace information, accurate dimensions, special processes, etc. 

Assists in developing and maintaining procedures and work instructions, communicating changes to the source inspection team, and ensuring adherence to the updated procedures / work instructions 

Suggests and implements changes in working conditions and procedures to increase safety and efficiency 

Spend time shadowing inspectors working at suppliers to understand the work environment, and drive process improvements 

Analyzes and resolves work problems or assists workers in solving work problems; supports conflict resolution with suppliers assisting the operations team.  

Interfaces with Operations and Associate Development to understand key priorities, process and resource challenges and actively directs inspection support accordingly 

Interfaces with inspectors, suppliers and customer key contacts to resolve problems related to product and documentation conformance, corrective action compliance and procedures / work instructions. 

 Build and maintain strong relationships with customer technical teams. 

Leads cross functional discussions on inspection operations and methods, as well as supports inspection program process evolution 

Supports, maintains, and effectively communicates source inspectors’ daily performance to the SI Technical Manager. Lead efforts to manage escapes, deviations, and non-conformances. 

Confers with SI Technical lead, source inspectors, and operations SI vertical team to resolve issues 

 Provide technical leadership to the source inspection team, guiding inspectors in complex technical matters. 

Collaborate with inspectors to resolve technical challenges and ensure accurate and consistent inspections. 

Offer expert insights into inspection methodologies and techniques. 

Identify and escalate critical technical issues to SI Technical Manager.  

Ensure compliance with established quality standards, specifications, and industry best practices. 

Participate in the development and execution of training programs to enhance inspection skills. 

Engage with customers' technical representatives to address questions, concerns, and technical matters. 

Qualifications, Skills, and Experience: 

High school diploma or equivalency certificate and 7+ years of experience in supply chain, manufacturing or quality assurance field OR a bachelor’s degree in engineering or supply chain and 4+ years of experience in engineering, supply chain, manufacturing or quality assurance 

1+ years of experience leading people, teams, or technical projects 

Ability to understand basic purchase orders (PO) quality requirements, their intent, and how supplied documentation meets these requirements 

Leadership skills and experience in project management 

Technical problem-solving skills and strong communication skills 

Detail-oriented, organized, flexible, and demonstrate a high sense of urgency 

High computer literacy including ability to use Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook 

Knowledge of GD&T and dimensional inspection tools and methods 

ISO 9001/AS9100/9102 (first article inspection) experience 

Preferred Lean / 6-Sigma or other formal continuous improvement experience 

Lifting, standing, climbing, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing, stooping, stretching, and carrying may be required to perform the functions of this position 

Valid driver’s license is mandatory and ability to travel to supplier sites as needed 

Position may involve long hours and weekend work as needed 

Must be able to travel - up to 50%-60% work week travel may be required