Step-by-Step Workflow for SQE (Supplier Quality Engineer)
1. Supplier Assessment & Onboarding
What: Evaluate potential suppliers based on capability, quality systems, past performance,
infrastructure, and certifications.
Your Role:
• Conduct audits (onsite or remote) using tools like checklists (ISO 9001/IATF standards).
• Rate suppliers (A/B/C classification).
• Finalize NDA, T&C, and supply agreements.
How to Proceed:
• Use Supplier Assessment Templates (ISO 9001, VDA 6.3).
• Coordinate with Purchase and Legal teams for documentation.
2. SOR, DFM & DVP Review
What: Ensure the supplier understands the SOR (Statement of Requirements), validates DFM
(Design for Manufacturing), and completes DVP (Design Validation Plan).
Your Role:
• Translate customer drawings/specs to supplier expectations.
• Collaborate with R&D for DFM feasibility.
• Track validation activities as per DVP matrix.
How to Proceed:
• Conduct design reviews with supplier via shared CAD.
• Ensure feasibility sign-off before tooling starts.
3. New Part Development
What: Manage the lifecycle of a new component—from design freeze to prototype and mass
production.
Your Role:
• Approve sample submission timelines.
• Track die/mold/tool development.
• Validate First Article Inspection (FAI) reports.
How to Proceed:
• Use APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) steps.
• Schedule key milestone reviews: T0, T1, PPAP.
4. Delivery Tracking & Quality Inspection
What: Ensure supplier delivers parts on time and meets specs during incoming inspection.
Your Role:
• Track delivery using ERP.
• Perform Incoming Quality Inspection (IQA).
• Create GRN (Goods Receipt Note) and check dimensions.
How to Proceed:
• Use control plans, sampling inspection (AQL).
• Ensure IQA is aligned with drawing tolerances.
5. FTR (First Time Right) Sign-Off
What: Confirm that the initial batch is correct without rework/rejection.
Your Role:
• Verify dimensionally and visually.
• Conduct capability studies (Cp/Cpk).
• Approve for trial builds or pilot production.
How to Proceed:
• Use First Article Inspection Report (FAIR).
• Involve cross-functional teams (design, assembly).
6. FMEA ➝ PPAP ➝ PSW Closure
What: Execute risk analysis and document production readiness.
Your Role:
• Facilitate FMEA with supplier.
• Collect and verify PPAP documents (all 18 elements).
• Review and sign the PSW (Part Submission Warrant).
How to Proceed:
• Use AIAG FMEA and PPAP templates.
• Ensure ballooned drawings, control plans, and MSA are included.
7. Application Engineering & IQA Sign-Off
What: Ensure the part fits the real-world application and passes incoming quality checks.
Your Role:
• Test the part under application conditions (heat, load, etc.).
• Get IQA confirmation based on specs.
How to Proceed:
• Coordinate with testing labs and IQC teams.
• Record deviation and communicate ECN if needed.
8. Warranty/Field Failure Feedback
What: Track and analyze parts that fail in the field or under warranty.
Your Role:
• Collect failure data (service, customer complaints).
• Tag and return faulty parts to supplier.
How to Proceed:
• Use tools like 5 Whys, Pareto charts, and Ishikawa diagrams.
• Keep Failure Modes Database updated.
9. Failure Analysis & CAPA
What: Identify root cause of failure and implement permanent solutions.
Your Role:
• Perform 8D or 5D root cause analysis.
• Review containment, corrective, and preventive actions.
How to Proceed:
• Use CAPA Tracker with timelines.
• Monitor effectiveness of actions post-implementation.
10. QMS Audit & Compliance
What: Ensure supplier meets Quality Management System standards (ISO/IATF).
Your Role:
• Perform internal audits.
• Support external audits with documentation.
How to Proceed:
• Use ISO 9001/IATF 16949 audit checklists.
• Train suppliers on compliance gaps.
11. Continuous Improvement & Supplier Development
What: Build long-term partnerships by improving supplier performance.
Your Role:
• Track KPIs: PPM, OTD, NCRs.
• Initiate Lean Six Sigma projects with suppliers.
How to Proceed:
• Regular reviews (Monthly QBRs – Quality Business Reviews).
• Benchmark best practices and implement Kaizens.
Tips for Interview (Real-world Application)
• Use STAR Method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe your involvement.
• Be ready with 1 or 2 examples like:
o "Handled a PPAP for a critical plastic molded part within 10 days, with zero non-
conformance in pilot batch."
o "Identified root cause of field failure in under 48 hours and implemented a new
control plan reducing defect rate by 40%."
