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Job Description:

Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.

When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do – but also about each other.  We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here – we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.

Job Summary

The Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) is responsible for supplier quality management, issue resolution, and continuous improvement activities to ensure supplier products and manufacturing processes consistently meet Caterpillar quality standards and business requirements.

This role will primarily support hydraulic component suppliers, including hydraulic cylinders swivels and pumps. The successful candidate will work closely with suppliers, purchasing, engineering, manufacturing, and global quality teams to drive supplier performance and quality excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage supplier quality performance and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Lead supplier quality issue resolution activities and corrective/preventive action implementation.
• Conduct root cause analysis using 8D, 5Why, Fishbone Diagram, FMEA, and other quality tools.
• Plan and execute supplier audits, including process, product, and quality system audits.
• Support supplier qualification, certification, and quality assessment activities.
• Collaborate with Purchasing, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Suppliers to resolve quality concerns.
• Monitor supplier quality KPIs such as PPM, defect rate, customer complaints, and improvement metrics.
• Drive process controls and manufacturing quality improvements at supplier locations.
• Ensure compliance with company quality standards, industry regulations, and customer requirements.

Required Skills

Education

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, or related disciplines.

Experience

• Minimum 5+ years of experience in Supplier Quality Engineering, Quality Assurance, Manufacturing Quality, or related functions.
• Experience supporting mechanical, industrial, powertrain, hydraulic, or heavy equipment components.

Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of:
  • APQP
  • FMEA
  • SPC
  • MSA
  • 8D Problem Solving
  • Root Cause Analysis
• Experience conducting supplier audits.
• Knowledge of machining, casting, forging, heat treatment, and assembly processes.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.

Language

• Good communication in both Chinese and English.

Preferred Skills

• Direct experience with hydraulic Cylinders, swivels and pumps. 
• Understanding of hydraulic system operation and performance requirements.
• Experience in construction equipment, mining equipment, agricultural machinery, or heavy equipment industries.
• Knowledge of GD&T, precision machining, and dimensional control.
• Auditor certification in VDA 6.3, IATF 16949, or ISO 9001.
• Experience in supplier development and global supply chain quality management.

Posting Dates:

Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply

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