Supplier Quality Lead

(Aerospace/Defense) CapstoneONE Search | Hartford, Connecticut (On-site)

We are representing a globally recognized Fortune 500 aerospace/defense manufacturing organization actively seeking a Supplier Quality Lead due to continued company growth. This role will serve as the critical link between the organization and its external supplier base, driving quality performance across a defined supplier portfolio.

Position Overview

• Reports to the Supplier Quality Manager; partners closely with Purchasing, Engineering, and Quality Assurance


• Leads supplier development activities to improve process capability, quality systems, and on-time delivery performance


• Drives root cause analysis and corrective action (RCCA) using structured problem-solving methods (8D, 5-Why, Fishbone) for nonconformances and escapes


• Owns and maintains supplier scorecards, tracking quality, delivery, and responsiveness metrics


• Supports new supplier qualification, PPAP/FAI activities, and supplier process/quality system audits


• Reviews and dispositions supplier-related nonconforming material; manages containment through corrective action closure


• Supports continuous improvement initiatives to reduce supplier-related defects, delivery disruptions, and cost of poor quality


• Requires limited travel (approximately 10-15%) for supplier visits, audits, and on-site problem-solving support

Position Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, Materials, or related field) preferred


• 3+ years of Supplier Quality, Quality Engineering, or Manufacturing Quality experience within aerospace, defense, or another highly regulated industry


• Working knowledge of AS9100, ISO 9001, and root cause/corrective action methodologies


• Strong communication skills with experience leading discussions across supplier and internal cross-functional teams