Supplier Quality Engineer -Pursuit

Job DetailsJob Location: Pursuit FL - Fort Pierce, FL 34946Position Summary

The Plant Supplier Quality Engineer / Lead is responsible for ensuring incoming supplier materials and components meet Malibu Boats’ quality, performance, and reliability standards to support high-performance marine manufacturing operations. This role partners closely with purchasing, operations, engineering, and key suppliers to drive defect prevention, supplier development, and continuous improvement throughout the supply chain.

This leader will play a critical role in maintaining production flow, product integrity (cosmetic, functional, structural), and customer satisfaction by proactively managing supplier quality risks in a fast-paced, built-to-order boat manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

Supplier Quality Management

Serve as the primary quality interface between MBI plant location and production suppliers.
Maintain supplier quality performance metrics (PPM, on-time delivery, corrective actions, warranty impact) via scorecard.
Lead supplier selection support activities (engaged in product development prior to sourcing), including:

Supplier APQP participation
Risk assessments (PFMEA, control plans)
PPAP approvals for new parts and changes

Incoming Quality & Production Support

Establish and maintain incoming inspection standards.
Drive containment activities to minimize line disruptions due to supplier defects.
Collaborate with production teams to resolve quality issues.

Corrective Action & Continuous Improvement

Lead and manage supplier corrective actions using structured methods (8D, DMAIC, A3).
Perform root cause analysis on supplier-related defects affecting production or field performance.
Track and verify effectiveness of corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
Partner with suppliers to implement lean manufacturing and process capability improvements.

Supplier Development

Identify Top 5 suppliers (using scorecard data) needing process/product development to improve part quality – develop a plan and achieve results.
Conduct supplier audits (process, system, and layered process audits).
Drive supplier capability improvements aligned to Malibu’s expectations for:

High-end finish quality
Durability in marine environments
Consistency in custom configurations

Develop strategic supplier relationships focused on long-term quality performance and innovation.

New Product Introduction (NPI)

Collaborate with engineering and product development teams to ensure supplier quality readiness for new boat models.

Ensure early supplier involvement for

Design for manufacturability (DFM)
Material validation (UV resistance, corrosion resistance, etc.)
Prototype and pilot build support.

Data Analysis & Reporting

Analyze supplier-related quality trends impacting:

Production efficiency
Scrap/rework costs.
Warranty/field failures

QualificationsQualifications

Required

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, or related field
8+ years of experience in supplier quality or manufacturing quality

Experience with

APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans

Root cause analysis tools (8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone)
Supplier audits and development

Solid/strong understanding of a variety of manufacturing processes (i.e. - composites, assembly, electrical, or metal fabrication preferred)

Preferred

Experience in marine, automotive, RV, or durable goods manufacturing
Familiarity with cosmetic quality standards and customer-driven customization environments
Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or Black Belt)
ASQ Certified Supplier Quality Engineer (CSQE)

Key Competencies

Strong communicator – self-directed – results focused – lean mindset – team “first.”
Strong cross-functional leadership (quality, operations, supply chain)
Ability to balance production urgency with disciplined quality processes.
Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
Supplier relationship management and influence
High diligence, especially in fit, finishing, and aesthetic quality

Work Environment

Manufacturing plant environment with frequent supplier interaction
Occasional travel (10–25%) to supplier sites
Fast-paced, direct role supporting a premium product with high customer expectations.

Success Metrics

Must successfully be focused on relationship building and teamwork.
Reduction in supplier PPM and plant disruptions
Improved supplier responsiveness and corrective action effectiveness
Improved supplier scorecard metrics – Top 5 plus overall
Reduced cost of poor quality (COPQ)
Successful launch quality from suppliers for new/modified boat models and components
Warranty reduction tied to supplier defects

Why Malibu Boats Inc.

Join a team committed to craftsmanship, innovation, and delivering industry-leading performance on the water. This role directly impacts the quality and reputation of premium recreational boats by ensuring every component meets the highest standards.

#PursuitBoats