L3Harris

Job Description

Supplier Development Engineer (Category Manager)

USA-Massachusetts-Northampton

JOB SUMMARY:

Using a developed knowledge of a supplier's implemented process control and inspection planning effectiveness, this associate will aggressively work to reduce the non-value added expense associated within supply chain functions and processes . This associate will be expected to work with our suppliers to improve performance (Quality and Delivery) and facilitate production cost and lead time reduction.

This position is for a professional with a background in operations, manufacturing and/or industrial engineering. This individual will work independently at the supplier site in several key target areas.

The individual will collaborate with supplier management to coordinate and/or lead activities such as process flow, value stream mapping, 3P, Gemba walks, controlled build reviews, defining metrics, change communication technology or system improvements, operational logistics thru flow and linkage, continuous improvement activities, sub-tier management evaluations, capacity evaluations, etc. This will include resolution of risks/obstacles, regardless of origin to ensure manufacturing, supply chain, and delivery processes have the capability to meet customer needs and schedule. Communication may involve senior management in multiple organizations.

Location: Limited hybrid work opportunity, position requires on-site work with hardware and team leading activities.
Travel Requirement: Up to 40% of the time, primarily domestic travel. This is a supplier facing role, that requires an on-site presence to engage directly with suppliers.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS & DUTIES:

• Establish partnerships at all levels within the supplier, emphasizing collaboration, clear expectations, common goals, trust and transparency
• Identify risks and gaps in supplier manufacturing processes and develop gap closure plans
• Ensure suppliers are managing capacity, demand and resource plans that demonstrate rate readiness
• Assist the supplier in line of balance / metrics to evaluate the health and stability of the manufacturing process
• Monitor supplier performance and facilitate improvement projects using L3Harris KPI’s as a basis for prioritization and maintain total internal and external customer awareness.
• Jointly develop Get-To-Green plans with supplier, then implement targeted actions to hold supplier and stakeholders accountable for performance to plan
• Drive engagement and cross-functional collaboration between Supply Chain, Engineering and Quality for both L3Harris and the supplier
• Support corporate improvement initiatives by ensuring the supply base is trained on the common processes, lean manufacturing, quality systems, and other improvement tools
• Ensure technical reviews are supported with the appropriate knowledge and experience to provide a thorough evaluation of the supplier’s manufacturing capabilities
• Work with L3Harris Supply Chain Organization to identify capable and interested second sources, ready to provide a competitive option.
• Serve as an advocate to suppliers when at L3Harris and represent L3Harris business interests when working with these suppliers.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES:

• 5+ years supplier quality engineering knowledge or experience required
• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Management or other related field preferred, equivalent experience considered
• Continuous improvement focus. Ability to investigate issues, problem solve, and prevent future problems from occurring
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proven capability to solve technical problems while meeting the need of the customer
• Able to work independently, prioritizing work to meet objectives and expectations accurately and efficiently
• Works well with all levels inside and outside of the organization: management, peers, and suppliers. Able to work collaboratively
• Ability to represent the organization as a prime contact on contracts or projects
• Interacts with senior internal and external personnel on significant matters often requiring coordination between organizations
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel & PowerPoint)
• Material Requirement Planning (MRP) experience desired, preferably with Deltek Costpoint
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail
• Sense of urgency
• Must meet eligibility requirements to access US classified information