Supplier Development Engineer (Automotive)

You will be the bridge between design and production. This high-impact role focuses on accelerating component development and ensuring rigorous supplier qualification. You’ll be expected to navigate complex cross-functional communications, travel extensively to manufacturing sites across the region, and exercise decisive on-site judgment.

Your primary mission is to guarantee that every part meets the companies uncompromising quality standards while keeping pace with our aggressive launch timelines.

Requirements

Execute comprehensive supplier audits to establish high-standard manufacturing and quality frameworks, spanning from initial prototype through full-scale mass production Spearhead New Product Introduction by driving Design for Manufacturing (DFM) initiatives, optimizing material selection to enhance yield and reduce costs Act as the primary technical bridge between global suppliers and Tesla’s internal teams (Engineering, Purchasing, Quality) to lock in precise specifications Boost scalability by mentoring suppliers in Lean, TPM, and OEE methodologies, ensuring sustaining products meet aggressive quality and cost targets.

Lead root-cause analysis and validate corrective actions (CAPA) to eliminate quality bottlenecks and safeguard production continuity Partner with Design and Manufacturing stakeholders to define and exceed rigorous performance and reliability benchmarks Benefits BS/MS in Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial, Materials, or Manufacturing Engineering (or equivalent experience).

10+ years of hands-on experience in Power electronics, Magnetics material and assemblies, Electro-mechanical parts, within Supplier Quality, Engineering, or Manufacturing roles. Expertise in Quality Systems (PPAP/APQP), GD&T, inspection, Six Sigma, and Lean manufacturing. Certified green or black belt preferred. Strong statistical knowledge and data-driven for problem-solving; Good at Excel/Powerpoint/Minitab, etc.

for data analysis and summary. Proven leadership to guide suppliers at the management level, with project management experience. Ability to excel in fast-paced settings: Build teams with suppliers, peers, and cross-functions; work independently under pressure. Fluency in English for complex technical communication with global stakeholders.

Comfortable with frequent travel (50–60%), including short notice.