Job Description:



To provide assistance & leadership to Caterpillar’s non-core supply base in the execution of Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP), the implementation of process control and the deployment of a continuous quality improvement process. Provides local support and assistance to Supplier Quality Engineers and Process Control Engineers from other sites. To ensure that suppliers are able to meet corporate and business unit supplier performance requirements. Deliver Global Leverage with Local Service Excellence.



JOB DUTIES: The primary responsibilities of this position are to work with suppliers to ensure that robust process controls are in place to prevent nonconformities, to continuously monitor supplier’s key manufacturing processes and quality management system for improvement opportunities and to assist suppliers with Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) activities to ensure production readiness for New Product Introduction (NPI).



The PCE is responsible for the supplier’s processes from design concept to the end of product life (cradle to grave). This position ensures the adequacy of the supplier’s quality management system and the capability of people, training, tooling, fixturing and equipment. Provides technical support during start-up activities. Ensures that APQP activities related to process control are being performed by the supplier. Monitors supplier adherence to Process Change Notification (PCN) (for changes driven by Supplier and Caterpillar) on a timely and cost effective basis. Helps suppliers extract value from the APQP process. Manages supplier’s project plans and activities to ensure product meets Caterpillar expectations. Ensures all relevant requirements and related changes are thoroughly documented. Reviews APQP documentation (e.g., Process FMEA {failure mode and effects analysis}, Process Control Plans, Gage R&R {repeatability & reproducibility}). Participates in process FMEA for suppliers’ manufacturing processes. Audits process control implementation and effectiveness. Validates process capability. Ensures PPAP completion and approval prior to delivery of new parts.



The PCE ensures resolution and implementation of robust solutions for quality problems associated with purchased materials and engineering issues. Responsible for the review, approval and validation of 8D permanent corrective action plans. Performs quality management system audits and Supplier Evaluation Surveys (SES), including assessments of potential new suppliers. Supports SPQ projects. Participates in the development of Supplier quality metrics. Participates in Supplier Performance Management Reviews (SPM).



Supports Caterpillar 6 Sigma initiatives with suppliers. Executes assigned activities from Concurrent Product and Process Development (CPPD), New Product Introduction (NPI) and Continuous Product Improvement (CPI) teams. Works with suppliers to reduce waste and improve supplier process capability and efficiency. Not responsible for supply chain expediting activities. Not responsible for reporting activities in Workflow.



Must have a thorough working knowledge of quality initiatives. The position manages the completion of their own work assignments and coordinates work with others. Maintains the highest ethical and professional standards within this diverse global organization.



Requirements:
A minimum of 5 year of job-related experience;
· A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent experience) preferably in engineering;
· Engineering or manufacturing background plus familiarity with manufacturing processes used to produce components and assemblies for Caterpillar-type Products;
· Knowledge of shop operations;
· Good interpersonal communication, analytical, leadership and project management skills to develop a cooperative working relationships with others both inside and outside of Caterpillar;
desired_skills_qualifications:
· Quality engineering certification;
· Capable of using and demonstrating statistical and problem solving tools;
· Understanding of supplier cost structure