ABOUT THE COMPANY: JOST International began as a small business in the early 1980s, where we submitted the patent application for the very first steel cast fifth wheel coupling. Since our start in Grand Haven, Michigan, JOST International has grown to become a world market leader for fifth wheels and landing gear and an international supplier for the commercial trucking industry. Though we’ve grown through the years, JOST International is proud to retain the same values and principles that launched our business decades ago — a dedication to safety and continuous innovation, and above all, a close relationship with our customers and our employees.

JOST International is a leading Tier 1 supplier in the automotive industry, specializing in innovative solutions for the commercial truck, trailer, and agriculture markets. Our commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, and continuous improvement has established us as a trusted partner to OEMs and major industry players. 

Position overview: This position reports to the Quality Manager and requires frequent travel to supplier locations. The Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) is responsible for ensuring that suppliers meet Jost International’s quality standards and requirements. This role involves supplier development, process audits, performance monitoring, and continuous improvement initiatives. The SQE will work closely with suppliers to improve product quality, reduce defects, and drive cost savings while ensuring compliance with automotive industry standards and customer requirements. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Include, but are not limited to:

Supplier Development & Compliance

· Develop and implement supplier quality processes in alignment with the JOST Supplier Quality Manual.

· Support supplier development initiatives to enhance manufacturing capabilities and reduce quality risks.

· Perform supplier process audits (ISO 9001, AIAG CQI, and APQP) to ensure compliance with JOST and industry standards.

· Ensure JOST-owned tooling at suppliers is properly maintained and documented.

Supplier Quality Management

· Review and approve Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) submissions, ensuring compliance with AIAG core tools.

· Lead supplier corrective action processes, including 8D problem-solving and root cause analysis techniques (5-Why, Fishbone).

· Track and maintain the Supplier Performance Matrix and supplier scorecards, identifying trends and opportunities for improvement.

· Ensure adherence to ISO 9001 and AIAG core tools (MSA, APQP, PPAP, Control Plans, FMEA).

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Reporting

· Work with engineering, manufacturing, and purchasing teams to resolve supplier quality issues and implement preventive actions.

· Ensure timely communication of supplier quality concerns to internal stakeholders and leadership.

· Conduct regular supplier quality meetings to drive accountability and continuous improvement.

Continuous Improvement & Cost Reduction

· Work with suppliers to improve process efficiency, reduce defects, and implement cost-saving initiatives.

· Collaborate with purchasing and engineering to evaluate supplier capabilities and drive process improvements.

· Provide technical expertise on AAR and TTMA requirements, including industry-specific test practices.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Reporting

· Work with engineering, manufacturing, and purchasing teams to resolve supplier quality issues and implement preventive actions.

· Ensure timely communication of supplier quality concerns to internal stakeholders and leadership.

· Conduct regular supplier quality meetings to drive accountability and continuous improvement.

Key Competencies

· Supplier Quality Management – Experience in evaluating, auditing, and improving supplier performance in a manufacturing environment.

· Problem-Solving & Root Cause Analysis – Proficiency in 8D, 5-Why, Fishbone Diagrams, and other structured problem-solving methods.

· Technical Expertise – Strong knowledge of PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans, APQP, MSA, and SPC per AIAG standards.

· Process Auditing – Skilled in ISO 9001 compliance audits and AIAG CQI process assessments to ensure supplier adherence.

· Continuous Improvement & Cost Reduction – Ability to lead projects that drive supplier quality enhancements and cost-out initiatives.

· Communication & Collaboration – Strong ability to interact effectively with suppliers, internal teams, and senior leadership.

QUALIFICATIONS: 

· Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Quality, Mechanical, or Industrial) or equivalent experience.

· ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) preferred.

· ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certification and/or ASQ Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) preferred.

· Experience with measuring devices (CMM, FARO, calipers, micrometers, etc.).

· Knowledge of automotive industry quality standards, including AIAG and IATF 16949.

· Strong analytical, mathematical, and computer skills (Excel, Minitab, or other statistical tools).

· Ability to travel frequently to supplier locations.

· Experience in conducting AIAG CQI audits (welding, plating, heat treatment, etc.).

· Must comply with quality, environmental, and safety policies while ensuring adherence to Jost International’s business processes.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

· Work is generally performed in office setting.

· While performing duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, see, hear and frequently required to walk; use hands, reach, stoop, bend, twist, stand and occasionally will be required to lift or move objects up to 50 pounds.