Supplier Quality Development Engineer (Defence)

TL;DR

Supplier Quality Development Engineer (Defence): Elevating external manufacturing partners to meet rigorous technical specifications for autonomous systems with an accent on closing capability gaps and ensuring zero-defect serial production. Focus on leading deep-dive root cause investigations, implementing sustainable corrective actions, and bridging engineering intent with supply chain execution.

Location: Munich, Germany. Willingness to travel regularly (domestically and internationally) to supplier sites is required.

Company

hirify.global is a defence technology company developing high-performance, software-defined unmanned systems to bolster the technological edge of NATO Allies and Partners.

What you will do

• Execute targeted action plans to close supplier capability gaps and coach partners on defense-compliant Control Plans.
• Define and document measurable defect criteria in collaboration with internal Design teams.
• Drive First Article Inspection (FAI) and Production Part Approval Processes (PPAP) to validate mass production execution of complex drawings and GD&T requirements.
• Coordinate containment of defective components and guide suppliers through structured 8D root-cause analysis and SCARs.
• Manage supplier non-conformances through strategic escalation and diplomatic relationship management.
• Translate manufacturability constraints into feedback for Design teams and monitor PPM metrics for continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Technical degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Industrial Engineering.
• 3–5 years of experience in Supplier Quality Development or manufacturing engineering.
• Expertise in structured root cause analysis and quality tools (8D, SCARs, 5-Why, Fishbone).
• Hands-on experience with ERP/QMS systems for performance tracking and SCAR workflows.
• Proficient written and spoken English and German.
• Willingness to travel regularly (domestically and internationally).

Nice to have

• Experience in the Defense, Aerospace, or Automotive sectors.
• Working knowledge of part qualification processes (FAI, PPAP/APQP) and GD&T.
• Experience with NATO AQAP or Aerospace (EN 9100/AS9100) traceability and quality standards.
• Proven ability to align internal Engineering expectations with external supplier capabilities.

Culture & Benefits

• Opportunity to work at the forefront of autonomous defence technology.
• Mission-driven environment focused on deterring aggression and defending Europe.
• Collaborative team environment dedicated to the prevention side of defect management.
• Engagement with a high-stakes, high-performance manufacturing ecosystem.