Supplier Quality Engineer - Structural

Overview

This role is specifically responsible for ensuring that all sourced metal components — including stamped parts, welded assemblies, and structural body elements — meet Scout Motors' quality, timing, and delivery requirements. This role partners with suppliers from nomination through SOP (Start of Production) and beyond to proactively manage quality risks, develop robust manufacturing processes, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

What you'll do

Become part of an iconic brand that is set to revolutionize the electric pick-up truck & rugged SUV marketplace by achieving the following:

• Supplier Evaluation & Selection:
  • Conduct thorough evaluations of potential suppliers to assess capabilities, quality systems, and compliance with industry standards.
  • Collaborate with procurement, engineering, and design teams to select suppliers aligned with Scout's quality and performance objectives.
  • Participate in product development meetings to provide input on supplier capabilities and quality considerations.
• Quality Planning & Performance Monitoring:
  • Support supplier quality planning and execution from advanced development through mass production using QPNI and VDA methodologies.
  • Monitor supplier performance through audits, assessments, and quality control inspections.
  • Establish and maintain quality metrics and documentation for structural components, including inspection plans, control plans, and work instructions.
  • Ensure all quality records are current and compliant with regulatory requirements.
• Issue Resolution & Continuous Improvement:
  • Investigate supplier-related quality issues using root cause analysis and implement corrective actions.
  • Lead proactive and reactive containment efforts at supplier sites.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing principles.
  • Facilitate training and workshops to promote best practices in quality management.
• Production Readiness & Industrialization:
  • Ensure suppliers have robust processes to support seamless mass industrialization and high-quality production.
  • Support supplier manufacturing process development, launch readiness, and design change implementation.
  • Oversee Supplier PPAPs and manage quality activities from development through series production.
  • Lead improvements in cost, quality, and manufacturability, including best practices in testing, gauging, and assembly techniques.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration & Communication:
  • Work closely with engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and design teams to integrate quality standards across the product lifecycle.
  • Facilitate clear communication of technical requirements between suppliers and Scout's internal teams.
  • Ensure timely escalation and resolution of supplier-related issues.
  • Support change management processes for product architecture updates.

Location & Travel Expectations:

• This role will be based out of the Scout Motors location in Columbia, South Carolina.
• The responsibilities of this role require dailyattendance in office with in-person meetings and events regularly.
• Applicants should expect that the role will require the ability to convene with Scout colleagues in person and travel to participate in events on behalf of the company from time to time.
• Travel: Domestic and international travel required, approximately 40-70% of the time. Valid driver's license required. Passport required

What you'll bring

We expect all Scout employees to have integrity, curiosity, resourcefulness, and strive to exhibit a positive attitude, as well as a growth mindset. You'll be comfortable with change and flexible in a fast-paced, high-growth environment. You'll take a collaborative approach to achieve ambitious goals. Here's what else you'll bring:

• Education/Certifications: A bachelor's degree in engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, or related field); master's degree preferred.
• Years of Experience required in type of role: 5 – 10 years of experience in a supplier quality role preferably in an automotive environment.
• Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills
• VDA Auditing Experience preferred.
• Excellent operations experience and very good understanding of the vehicle assembly/ functionality as a whole.
• Proven results and ability to direct supplier activities at the management level to ensure suppliers can meet customer requirements and expectations.
• Proven ability to execute project management techniques.
• Certification in AIAG Core Tools- MSA, APQP, FMEA, Control Plans, PPAP
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills, a high level of assertiveness as well as entrepreneurial thinking and goal- and result-oriented decision-making skills.
• Leadership and team management abilities, with a track record of building and leading high-performing teams.
• Very good technical understanding and sound specialist knowledge of vehicle development, vehicle production, and supply chain management.
• Strong technical writing ability using SPC and data analysis as well as an ability to explain complex issues concisely and plainly.
• Knowledge of industry standards and regulations (e.g., ISO 9001, IATF 16949).
• Understanding of safety requirements.
• Strong understanding of Press Part /Structure manufacturing processes.
• Sound knowledge of quality management and methodologies.
• Ability and willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required, approximately 40-70% of the time.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Passport required

What you'll gain

The benefits of joining Scout include the chance to build products and a company from the ground up. This is a chance to create something new and lasting – with an iconic brand at its foundation. In addition, Scout provides competitive compensation and benefits to support your physical, mental, and financial wellbeing. Program specifics are detailed in company policies and employee benefit guides, select highlights:

• Competitive insurance including:
  • Medical, dental, vision and income protection plans
• 401(k) program with:
  • An employer match and immediate vesting
• Generous Paid Time Off including:
  • 20 days planned PTO, as accrued
  • 40 hours of unplanned PTO and 14 company or floating holidays, annually
  • Up to 16 weeks of paid parental leave for biological and adoptive parents of all genders
  • Paid leave for circumstances related to bereavement, jury duty, voting time, or military leave

Pay Transparency

This is a full-time, exempt position eligible to receive a base salary and to participate in an annual performance bonus program. Final salary offered will be determined based on factors including but not limited to the candidate's skills and experience. The annual performance bonus program is preset and not candidate dependent.

Initial base salary range = $95,000.00 - $120,000.00

Internal leveling code: IC9