Supplier Technical Assistance (STA)
Location: Pune
Department: Supplier Quality / STA
Experience: 3-10 yrs
Job Summary
The STA role is responsible for ensuring supplier readiness and robust manufacturing processes for Metal, structural components and Polymers (Nonmetallic) across North America. This includes supplier assessments, tooling and equipment validation, process verification, and full support for APQP and PPAP deliverables. The candidate will provide on-site support at key locations including Dearborn, MI and supplier facilities across the US, Canada, and Mexico.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct supplier assessments to evaluate manufacturing capabilities, process controls, and quality systems.
- Lead tool and equipment trial runs at supplier sites to validate production readiness and capability.
- Perform process verification including PFMEA reviews, control plan audits, and line walk-throughs.
- Support suppliers in meeting all APQP milestones, including timely submission of PPAP documentation.
- Provide on-site support during critical build phases, including pre-production and launch readiness at Dearborn and supplier locations.
- Drive issue resolution for quality concerns, deviations, and non-conformances during development and production.
- Collaborate with Engineering, Purchasing, and Quality teams to ensure alignment on technical and commercial requirements.
- Monitor supplier performance metrics and initiate improvement plans where necessary.
- Ensure compliance with company and industry standards (e.g., IATF 16949, ISO 9001).
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in mechanical, Automotive, or Industrial Engineering (or equivalent).
- Experience in supplier quality, STA, or manufacturing engineering roles.
- Strong knowledge of APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans, MSA, SPC.
- Hands-on experience with tooling trials, process audits, and launch support.
- Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.
- Willingness to travel extensively across US, Canada, and Mexico.
