Employment Opportunity

Job Description:

We are looking for a Supplier Technical Engineer (STE) to join the Investment Castings 
Supply Chain. This position provides leadership in resolution of quality problems 
associated with purchased materials and engineering issues. As the STE at this facility, 
you would:

Have technical accountability for the assigned purchased parts from NPI (initial concept) 
through the product life cycle, including all aspects of quality management.
Have technical knowledge in Sand Castings, Forging and/or Investment Castings plus 
relevant Machining processes. 
Be able to understand top supplier technical issues and provide ideas and solutions to 
resolve the most complex and challenging problems. 
Be the “charter part” technical engineer for make complete purchased parts. 
Be responsible for communication of technical requirements with Supplier, design/drawing 
review, Configuration Management input, perform Baan functions, tooling management, Q-
Notes, etc.
Monitor supplier quality performance data and trends and collaborate with the Sourcing 
Specialist and Buyer to develop and implement strategies for supplier performance 
improvements, leveraging root cause analysis and corrective and preventative action 
methodologies.
Provide input into casting, brazing and machining supplier selection process as a 
technical subject matter expert including participation on survey teams, collaboration 
with Sourcing Specialists and Buyers in supplier selection, qualification, and ongoing 
evaluation. 
Coordinate with engineering personnel on matters regarding Concurrent Product and Process 
Development (CPPD), New Product Introduction (NPI), and Continuous Process Improvement 
(CPI).
Participate in design and process Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA)
Lead the PPAP (Production Part Approval Process) and develops the FAPITP (First Article 
Production Inspection Test Plan) with initial input from Design Engineering
Work with Design Engineering to disposition Reject Notices (RNs) and Request for Technical 
Authorization (RTAs).
Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s Degree in a technical subject with 5 to 7 years of experience OR a Master's 
Degree in a technical subject with 3 to 5 years of experience
Engineering practices & process planning (interpretation of drawings, tooling concepts, 
NDT, Functional Test, etc.)
Preferred Qualifications:

Highest level of ethics and professionalism
Strong analytical problem-solving skills, ability to use and communicate statistical and 
problem-solving tools including root cause analysis and corrective action skills.
Well-developed interpersonal skills strongly preferred in dealing with sensitive issues, 
developing others, and reaching consensus on specific actions, inside and outside of 
Solar.
Tools and techniques of 6 Sigma methodology are requirements and may be attained through 
completion of 6 Sigma training following entry into this position.  Familiarity with 
project management and Design of Experiment (DOE)
Understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles as applied by Solar and our Suppliers.
Familiarity with quality management principles
Project Management skills
Familiarity with Sand Castings and applicable Machining Processes
Understanding of Solar manufacturing processes used to produce components and assemblies 
(turning, milling, etc.) and knowledge of shop operations and maintenance procedures.