Senior Supplier Quality Engineer – Structural

Here at Scout Motors, we're carrying forward the heritage of one of the most iconic American vehicles in history. A vehicle dating back to 1960. One that forged the path for future generations of rugged SUVs and trucks and will do so once again.

But Scout is more than just a brand, it’s a legacy steeped in a culture of exploration, caretaking, and hard work.

The Scout brand is all about respect. Respect for the past and the future by taking an iconic American brand that hasn’t been around for a while, electrifying it, digitizing it, and loading it with American innovation. Respect for communities by creating a company that stands for its people and its customers. Respect for both work and play, with vehicles that are equally at home at a camp site, a job site, or on a Tuesday commute. And respect for our customers by developing two powertrains that meet their requirements — an all-electric powertrain as well as the Harvester™ range extender powertrain which includes a built-in gas-powered generator with an estimated 500 miles of combined range.

At Scout Motors, we empower our talented, inclusive, and entrepreneurial teams to innovate. What makes a Scout employee? Someone who is a visionary and a leader, who seeks new paths and shares lessons learned. A knowledgeable doer who collaborates across the company to build better. A go-getter with unrivaled passion.

Join us at Scout Motors and be part of shaping the future of transportation. If you're ready to drive change and make history, apply now!

Overview 

The Senior Supplier Quality Engineer – Structural is 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 position serves as a technical leader within the Supplier Quality organization, partnering with suppliers and cross-functional teams from nomination through SOP (Start of Production) and beyond. The role focuses on developing supplier capabilities, reducing launch risk, and driving long-term quality and manufacturing excellence within the structural commodities portfolio. 

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 Development & Evaluation 

• Lead supplier capability assessments and technical reviews to ensure alignment with Scout Motors’ structural performance standards. 
• Partner with Procurement and Engineering in supplier selection decisions, providing expert input on manufacturability, tooling feasibility, and process robustness. 
• Mentor and support junior SQEs in evaluating supplier process readiness and audit execution. 

Advanced Quality Planning & Performance Management 

• Oversee supplier quality planning using QPNI and VDA methodologies throughout development, launch, and series production phases. 
• Validate supplier control plans, process flow diagrams, PFMEAs, and inspection methods to ensure effective risk mitigation. 
• Track supplier quality metrics (PPM, delivery, NCRs, etc.) and lead cross-functional reviews to identify trends and improvement opportunities. 
• Ensure compliance with IATF 16949, ISO 9001, and Scout’s internal quality system requirements. 

Problem Solving & Continuous Improvement 

• Lead structured problem-solving efforts using 8D and root cause methodologies for critical supplier issues. 
• Drive containment and recovery actions to protect program timing and product integrity. 
• Facilitate supplier workshops to enhance understanding of quality tools, defect prevention, and process control. 
• Champion continuous improvement initiatives leveraging Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles. 

Industrialization & Launch Readiness 

• Ensure suppliers have capable processes, equipment, and measurement systems to achieve flawless launch execution. 
• Manage Supplier PPAPs, process capability studies, and line trials to confirm readiness for mass production. 
• Partner with Engineering and Manufacturing teams to assess design for manufacturability and process integration feasibility. 
• Act as the escalation point for structural commodity issues during launch and production phases. 

Cross-Functional Leadership & Communication 

• Collaborate closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Design to align supplier deliverables with program milestones. 
• Serve as a key technical interface between suppliers and internal teams, ensuring clear communication of requirements and expectations. 
• Lead technical discussions with supplier management to drive resolution and performance improvement. 
• Support and guide change management processes related to structural component updates and tooling changes. 

Location & Travel Expectations:

• This role will be based out of the Scout Motors location in Columbia, South Carolina, United States. 
• This role requires 4 -5 days per week in the office, with regular in-person meetings and events. 
• 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 & Experience 

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, Industrial, or related Engineering discipline preferred; candidates with 11 or more years of directly related professional experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• 7+ years of experience in Supplier Quality Engineering, ideally within automotive or high-volume metal manufacturing environments. 
• Proven experience leading supplier quality development for structural or body-in-white components. 
  
• Minimum of High School Diploma, GED or equivalent required for all roles at Scout Motors, Inc.
• Ability and willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required, approximately 40 - 70% of the time. 
• Valid driver's license required.
• Passport required
  

Technical Expertise 

• Strong understanding of press part, weld assembly, and structural body manufacturing processes. 
• Advanced knowledge of AIAG Core Tools (APQP, PPAP, MSA, FMEA, Control Plans). 
• Experience conducting or leading VDA 6.3 audits preferred. 
• Proficient in SPC, data analytics, and process capability analysis. 
• Knowledge of quality management systems and regulatory standards (IATF 16949, ISO 9001). 
• Skilled in problem-solving methodologies, root cause analysis, and risk-based decision making. 

Leadership & Interpersonal Skills 

• Demonstrated ability to lead suppliers and cross-functional teams through complex technical challenges. 
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to influence at multiple organizational levels. 
• High accountability, proactive mindset, and results-oriented leadership. 
• Ability to coach and mentor others in supplier quality tools and practices. 
• Adaptable, collaborative, and committed to Scout’s vision of redefining the future of the electric vehicle industry. 

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 = $120,000.00 - $145,000.00

Internal leveling code: IC8

Notice to applicants:

• Residing in San Francisco: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Scout Motors will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. 
• Residing in Los Angeles: Scout Motors will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. 
• Residing in New York City: This role is not eligible for remote work in New York City.

Equal Opportunity

Scout Motors is committed to employing a diverse workforce and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, disability, pregnancy, or any other characteristics protected by law. Scout Motors is committed to compliance with all applicable fair employment practice laws. If you require reasonable accommodation to complete a job application, pre-employment testing, or a job interview or to otherwise participate in the hiring process, please contact ScoutAccommodations@scoutmotors.com.