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Supplier Quality Engineer

Austin, TX

Apptronik is building robots for the real world to improve human quality of life and to help solve the ever-increasing labor shortage problem. Our team has been building some of the most advanced robots on the planet for years, dating back to the DARPA Robotics Challenge. We apply our expertise across the full robotics stack to some of the most important and impactful problems our society faces, and expect our products and technology to change the world for the better.  We value passion, creativity, and collaboration to help us overcome existing technological barriers in the industry to create truly innovative products. 

You will join a team developing state-of-the-art general-purpose robots designed to operate in human spaces and with human tools. It is designed to work alongside humans, mobilize to human spaces, and manipulate the world around it.

JOB SUMMARY

We are looking for a skilled and driven Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) to support the development and delivery of high-quality mechanical and electrical components from our global supply base. This role will be responsible for managing supplier qualification, driving issue resolution, and ensuring that all incoming parts meet engineering and quality requirements. You’ll work closely with internal teams including design, test, supply chain, and manufacturing as well as directly with suppliers and contract manufacturers to align on specifications, inspection standards, and process controls.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES or KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES:

  • Evaluate, qualify, and onboard new mechanical and electrical suppliers (PCBA, actuators, wire harnesses, castings, etc.)
  • Review engineering drawings and ensure supplier alignment on measurement SOPs (MSOPs), GD&T, and critical-to-function features
  • Lead process and part audits at supplier sites (e.g., capability studies, material review, cleanliness, traceability)
  • Drive APQP/PPAP activities with suppliers, including process validation, control plans, and first article inspection (FAI) reviews
  • Monitor supplier performance through metrics such as DPPM, OTD, NCR closure rate, and FPY; maintain dashboards and lead RCA sessions
  • Conduct regular reviews of supplier DFM, inspection plans, and material flow documentation
  • Work with suppliers to close out issues through RCCA, 8D, SCARs, and continuous improvement initiatives
  • Support manufacturing and incoming inspection teams by translating spec requirements into executable quality checks
  • Drive lessons learned into the supplier base and feed failure data into internal quality planning
  • Act as a liaison between engineering and suppliers for drawing changes and spec clarifications
  • Support CM build readiness with quality documentation, training, and first build oversight

SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS:

  • Deep understanding of mechanical and electrical manufacturing processes (CNC machining, injection molding, casting, PCBA, harnessing)
  • Proficient in reading and interpreting GD&T, engineering drawings, and quality specs
  • Experience with process audits, root cause analysis (5 Whys, 8D), and continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma)
  • Familiarity with quality tools such as FMEA, SPC, MSA, control plans, and capability studies
  • Experience with APQP, PPAP, and DFx during product development
  • Comfortable working with contract manufacturers and setting up inspection criteria for new parts
  • Strong documentation and communication skills; capable of creating clear inspection guidelines, visual aids, and MSOPs
  • Ability to travel domestically and internationally up to 40%

NICE TO HAVE:

  • CQE, Six Sigma Green Belt, or similar certifications
  • Experience working in robotics, aerospace, or automotive industries
  • Familiarity with APQP/PPAP processes and supplier qualification workflows
  • Hands-on experience with process audits and new part qualification
  • Working knowledge of quality systems such as ISO 9001 or IATF 16949

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering (or related)
  • 6+ years of experience in supplier quality or manufacturing quality in a high-complexity environment (robotics, aerospace, automotive, etc.)

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer 
  • Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times
  • Vision to read printed materials and a computer screen
  • Hearing and speech to communicate 

 

Perks:

  • Competitive salary w/ benefits
  • Highly motivating equity incentive package
  • Flexible work hours policy (WFH Mondays and Fridays, on-site Tues-Thurs)
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • 401k plan

 

 

 

 

*This is a direct hire.  Please, no outside Agency solicitations. 

Apptronik provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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