Lead Supplier Quality Engineer

About the role

Based out of Rocket Lab's Auckland, New Zealand facility, the Lead Supplier Quality Engineer is responsible for ensuring that quality requirements for procured parts and processes are consistently met. The role leads a team of Supplier Quality Engineers and serves as the primary liaison between internal stakeholders and suppliers.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and develop a high‑performing Supplier Quality Engineering team.
• Act as the main point of contact between internal teams and external suppliers.
• Translate complex technical requirements into clear, achievable specifications.
• Drive continuous improvement, cost reduction and process efficiency with suppliers.
• Oversee creation and management of non‑conformance reports.
• Plan and conduct supplier audits and manage supplier concessions.
• Identify and implement improvement opportunities to reduce risk, cost and lead time.

Required profile

• Proven ability to lead high‑performing teams in dynamic environments.
• Strong collaboration, accountability and empowerment skills.
• Exceptional leadership, communication and negotiation capabilities.
• Ability to balance internal priorities with external partner expectations.

Required skills