Supplier Quality Engineer

Job Description

Position Purpose

The Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) ensures that all sourced materials, components, and fabricated assemblies supplied to NextPower projects in the KSA region meet company quality standards, specifications, and compliance requirements. This role drives supplier performance, audits, and continuous improvement to achieve zero-defect supply and on-time delivery for solar tracker systems.

⸻

Key Responsibilities

Supplier Qualification & Development

• Evaluate and qualify new suppliers in line with NextPower’s global supplier approval process.
• Conduct supplier quality audits focusing on process capability, QMS implementation, and production readiness.
• Review and approve supplier PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans, and inspection documentation.
• Support localization of supply base in Saudi Arabia under Vision 2030 and local content initiatives.
  
  

Incoming Quality & Material Control

• Establish inspection criteria and quality plans for incoming materials.
• Coordinate with warehouse and project teams to ensure material conformity and release.
• Manage NCRs (non-conformance reports) for supplier issues, perform 8D/5Why root cause analysis, and validate corrective actions.
• Track and trend supplier performance data (PPM, defect rate, rework %, OTD).
  
  

Continuous Improvement & Compliance

• Work with suppliers to implement Lean, 6S, and mistake-proofing (Poka-Yoke) initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 systems as applicable.
• Verify material compliance with KSA and international standards (SASO, IEC, ASTM, REACH, RoHS).
• Participate in NPI projects to validate first-article samples and prototypes.
  
  

Auditing & Reporting

• Plan and execute supplier audits (process, product, and system audits).
• Prepare monthly supplier scorecards and review performance with Procurement and Engineering.
• Maintain supplier quality database and documentation for traceability.
• Coordinate with global quality teams to standardize supplier evaluation processes.
  
  

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Liaise with Engineering, Procurement, and Project Execution teams to address design changes, deviations, or material substitutions.
• Support site teams during installation phases by resolving supplier-related issues promptly.
• Interface with suppliers, third-party inspectors, and labs for testing and certification needs.
  
  

⸻

Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Supplier defect rate (PPM)
• Corrective action closure time
• Supplier audit completion rate vs. plan
• Supplier on-time delivery performance (OTD)
• Number of supplier improvement projects completed
• First-pass yield rate on critical components
  
  

⸻

Essential

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering.
• 5–8 years of experience in Supplier Quality Engineering or Vendor Development (preferably in solar, fabrication, or heavy industrial sectors).
• Strong background in quality tools and techniques: APQP, PPAP, FMEA, MSA, SPC, 8D, and Control Plans.
• Experience with ISO 9001 QMS audits and supplier assessment.
• Knowledge of steel fabrication, galvanizing, fasteners, or tracker component manufacturing.
• Good analytical and data interpretation skills; proficiency in Excel, Power BI, or similar.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills in English (Arabic is an advantage).
  
  

Preferred

• Certified Lead Auditor (ISO 9001 or IATF 16949).
• Six Sigma Green Belt or Lean Manufacturing certification.
• Experience with local suppliers in Saudi Arabia or GCC region.
• Familiarity with SASO/IEC material certification procedures.
• Working knowledge of ERP (SAP, Oracle) systems.
  
  

⸻

Competencies

• Analytical problem-solving and structured thinking.
• Supplier relationship management and negotiation.
• Attention to detail and ownership mindset.
• Continuous improvement and teamwork orientation.
• Ability to travel (approx. 30 – 40 %) within KSA and occasionally across GCC.
  
  

⸻

Work Conditions

• Base Location: Saudi Arabia
• Travel: Required to supplier facilities, fabrication yards, and project sites.
  
  

⸻

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary and annual performance bonus.
• Health insurance (employee and dependents).
• Annual leave, travel, and training benefits as per company policy.
• Global development and learning opportunities within Nextracker.
  
  

At Nextpower, we are driving the global energy transition with an integrated clean energy technology platform that combines intelligent structural, electrical, and digital solutions for utility-scale power plants. Our comprehensive portfolio enables faster project delivery, higher performance, and greater reliability, helping our customers capture the full value of solar power. Our talented worldwide teams are redefining how solar power plants are designed, built, and operated every day with smart technology, data-driven insights, and advanced automation. Together, we’re building the foundation for the world’s next generation of clean energy infrastructure.

We are Nextpower