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Saronic Technologies · 6 hours ago

Supplier Quality Engineer - Composites

Austin, TX

Full-time

Onsite

Mid Level

3+ years exp

Saronic Technologies is a leader in revolutionizing autonomy at sea, dedicated to developing state-of-the-art solutions that enhance maritime operations through autonomous and intelligent platforms. The Supplier Quality Engineer (Composites) is responsible for ensuring that composite hulls, structures, and components produced by suppliers meet Saronic’s quality, performance, and durability requirements, focusing on driving supplier quality performance and collaboration with internal teams.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)ManufacturingMarine TechnologyMilitarySecurity

No H1B

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Problem Solving & Root Cause Analysis and Corrective Actions

Investigate supplier nonconformance's such as voids, delamination, resin-rich/lean areas, cosmetic defects, or dimensional deviations. Lead structured problem-solving using methods such as 8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagrams, and FMEA to identify root causes and drive effective corrective and preventive actions. Verify corrective action effectiveness through follow-up inspections and process audits

Technical Quality Control

Validate and monitor supplier processes for composite part fabrication, including:

Mold preparation, release application, and surface integrity

Gelcoat and laminate layup consistency (resin-to-fiber ratios, air entrapment control)

Curing, demolding, trimming, and finishing

Bonding and secondary assembly operations

Dimensional and visual inspections (surface finish, thickness, weight verification) Implement and monitor key process metrics using statistical process control (SPC)

Or capability studies. Ensure supplier adherence to Saronic workmanship and composite quality standards

Supplier Quality Assurance (Audits & Assessments)

Plan and conduct supplier quality audits and process assessments for composite manufacturing operations. Evaluate compliance with relevant quality management standards (e.g., ISO 9001, AS9100) and marine composite best practices. Track supplier performance via scorecards (defect rates, on-time delivery, rework trends) and partner with suppliers to close quality gaps. Drive continuous improvement initiatives and verify corrective action completion

Quality Documentation and Reporting

Maintain detailed records of supplier audits, inspection results, corrective actions, and quality trends. Develop and deliver regular reports on supplier quality metrics and improvement status to management and cross-functional teams

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Work closely with engineering, procurement, and production teams to ensure material specifications, design requirements, and supplier capabilities are aligned. Provide technical guidance on composite layup strategies, bonding processes, and finishing methods. Support design for manufacturability (DFM) and quality (DFQ) reviews. Train internal and supplier personnel on composite quality standards, inspection techniques, and defect prevention

Continuous Improvement Initiatives

Lead or support Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen projects targeting improved composite process repeatability, reduced scrap, and enhanced material utilization. Collaborate with suppliers to implement standard work, visual controls, and other improved processes

Risk Management and Compliance

Identify potential risks in supplier quality or process capability and develop mitigation strategies. Ensure supplier adherence to Saronic’s material qualification, traceability, and documentation standards. Support compliance with applicable defense and marine quality requirements

New Supplier Qualification

Participate in the evaluation and qualification of new composite suppliers. Review manufacturing readiness, process control, material handling, and quality management systems. Conduct audits and first article inspections to ensure new suppliers meet Saronic’s standards for consistency, repeatability, and documentation

Qualification

Supplier Quality AssuranceComposite Manufacturing MethodsQuality Management SystemsRoot Cause AnalysisStatistical Process ControlAdvanced Composite ManufacturingQuality CertificationsInspection TechniquesMicrosoft Office SuiteERP Software FamiliarityCommunication SkillsProblem-Solving SkillsInterpersonal Skills

Required

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Materials Science, Manufacturing, or related field (or equivalent experience)

3+ years of experience in supplier quality, composites manufacturing, or marine production

Strong understanding of open-mold composite manufacturing methods (hand layup, spray-up, vacuum infusion)

Familiarity with marine composite materials such as fiberglass, carbon fiber, core materials, resins, and gelcoats

Knowledge of quality management systems and methodologies (ISO 9001, AS9100, APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans)

Demonstrated experience with supplier audits, process validation, and root cause analysis (8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone)

Proficiency in SPC, inspection techniques, and data-driven quality metrics

Excellent communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills for supplier and cross-functional engagement

Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with ERP or QMS software (SAP, Oracle, etc.)

Ability to travel to supplier sites as needed

Preferred

Experience with advanced composite manufacturing methods (e.g., prepreg layup, autoclave, oven-cure, resin transfer molding)

Certification in Quality or Supplier Management (CQE, Six Sigma Green/Black Belt, or similar)

Experience in a regulated or defense-related industry (aerospace, marine, defense)

Working knowledge of NADCAP, ASTM standards, or MIL-STD composite quality requirements

Benefits

Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of services

Saronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents

Dental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision care

Saronic pays 99% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents

Time Off: Generous PTO and Holidays

Parental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parents

Competitive Salary: Industry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonuses

Retirement Plan: 401(k) plan

Stock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the company’s success

Life and Disability Insurance: Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage

Additional Perks: Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office

Company

Saronic Technologies

Saronic is building cutting-edge unmanned surface vehicles that enable maritime security and domain awareness by combining best-in-class hardware, software and artificial intelligence into one scalable, fully integrated platform.

Founded in 2022

Austin, Texas, USA

1001-5000 employees