Strategic Supplier Quality Engineer (SSQE)

The SSQE position will be instrumental in supporting VENTANA MEDICAL SYSTEMS INC. strategy of achieving superior financial results through strategic supplier quality improvement initiatives. The SSQE will be responsible for execution of key initiatives such as Ventana Material Quality System (VMQS), Ventana Part Approval Process (VPAP), Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP), and, Modular supply base. He/She will manage supplier interactions, work with New Product Development core teams, and ensure appropriate supplier compliance to Ventana quality requirements.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

40 % - Interact with Engineering and R&D in the new product development process. Deploys APQP and modularity strategy to product development teams.

30% - Develops and communicates Ventana’s expectations for quality performance, continuous improvement, quality systems, process controls and capabilities to suppliers (VMQS, VPAP, Modularity Strategy etc.)

10% - Measures and communicates supplier performance on key metrics and the corresponding continuous improvement plans and reports results to management on a monthly basis.

10% - Collaborates, trains and mentors supplier representatives in best practices in quality systems, process controls methods, problem solving and statistical tools. Monitors and drives corrective action and continuous improvement activities that directly impact performance for assigned suppliers.

10% - Provides daily support to the manufacturing floor by acting as a liaison between internal customers and outside suppliers assuring prompt and accurate communication exchanges.


Willingness and flexibility for business travel both domestically and abroad, when required.
Monitors work to ensure quality, and continuously promote Quality First Time.
May perform other duties as required or assigned.
REQUIREMENTS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to carry out each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

•Experience in working with product development teams
•PPAP and or APQP deployment experience
•Demonstrated strong analytical, problem solving, teaming and communication/interpersonal skills (Six Sigma Black Belt, or Certified Quality engineer Preferred).
•Understanding of Quality Systems and process controls and continuous improvement methods (QSR’s, ISO9000 or QS9000).
•Works independently
•Ability to multi-task and methodically manage projects
•Computer competency in Word, Excel, Power Point and databases
•Ability to travel 50% of time

Formal Training, Education or Experience:

•Bachelors of Science in Engineering or other related technical field. Minimum of 3-5 years in supplier quality engineering.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

•Knowledge of Modular design
•Statistical Process Control techniques
•Lean background
•Ability to read Engineering drawings
•Strong written and verbal communication skills
•Root cause analysis
•Self-Motivated
•Willing to travel as necessary
•Primary/Secondary party compliance auditing experience preferred
•In depth understanding of metrology equipment preferred
•Bachelors of Science in Engineering or other related technical field. Minimum of 3-5 years in supplier quality engineering. •Demonstrated strong analytical, problem solving, teaming and communication/interpersonal skills (Six Sigma Black Belt, or Certified Quality engineer Preferred). •Computer competency in Word, Excel, Power Point and databases •Practical experience in metrology, test, inspection and analysis techniques •Understanding of Quality Systems and process controls and continuous improvement methods (QSR’s, ISO9000 or QS9000). •Primary/Secondary party compliance auditing experience •Works independently •Ability to multi-task and methodically manage projects •Ability to travel 50% of time.

Ventana offers a complete benefits package. Employees can select options that meet their individual needs incl medical, dental, vision; company paid life insurance, 401(k) and Employee Stock Purchase Plan.

Ventana Medical Systems, Inc.
1910 Innovation Park Drive
Oro Valley, AZ 85755

For more information please visit www.ventanamed.com and apply on line.

Ventana is an equal opportunity employer. M/F/D/V