Supplier Quality Engineer

Job Description

At BAE Systems Australia

• Do interesting work that MATTERS
• ENJOY what you do
• GROW your career
• Be YOU

We work in a thriving sector – one that puts us at the forefront of exciting and meaningful work. Every day we push boundaries to produce innovative and ground-breaking technology. Individually we all contribute to our success. Collectively we make the impossible possible.

BAE Systems delivers projects of global and national significance that help keep Australian’s safe. The Hunter Class Frigate Program (HCFP) is transforming Australia’s shipbuilding industry by supporting the building of a world-class, continuous naval shipbuilding capability for our nation. More about the program: What we do – Hunter Class

About the OPPORTUNITY

We are seeking a Supplier Quality Engineer, ideally with Defence Supplier Development experience, to engage directly with suppliers. Responsibilities will include performing risk and capability assessments, audits, and building supplier capability across the supply chain.

Supporting the Hunter Class Frigate program, you will report to the Head of Supplier Quality & Development and be based at Osborne Shipyard on a permanent full-time basis. Note, Sydney-based candidates will also be considered.

We offer flexible working arrangements, including a 9-day fortnight and hybrid options.

Key RESPONSBILTIES

Supplier Assessment

• Conduct supplier compliance assessments against regulatory, licence, and quality standards
• Evaluate supplier products and services against project and enterprise requirements
• Monitor supplier performance using a risk-based surveillance approach
• Support and track corrective, preventive, and improvement actions

Supplier Technical Support

• Apply engineering and manufacturing judgement to identify supplier performance issues
• Lead investigation and resolution of supplier non-conformances using 8D / RCA methodologies
• Apply continuous improvement tools (Lean, Six Sigma, Business Excellence) as required
• Monitor supplier performance through data analysis, inspections, and audits

Supplier Development

• Build and maintain effective, collaborative relationships with suppliers and sub-contractors
• Lead supplier training and deployment of APQP
• Support on-site supplier capability development (PPAP, FAI, CoC, PDVI or equivalent)
• Leverage internal expertise to uplift supplier quality and delivery capability

Continuous Improvement

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across the supply chain
• Analyse quality data to identify improvement and cost-reduction opportunities
• Partner with cross-functional teams to resolve quality issues and embed best practice
• Provide SME guidance to support supplier onboarding, surveillance, and recertification
• Support supplier alignment to QMS standards (ISO 9001, AS 9100, AS 9110)

Documentation and Reporting

• Maintain accurate records of supplier performance, audits, and non-conformances
• Prepare and present supplier quality metrics and improvement reports
• Ensure ongoing compliance with regulatory and enterprise quality requirements

About YOU

• Strong knowledge of quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001) and quality tools (e.g., FMEA, SPC, PFMEA, etc.).
• Certification/Diploma in Quality Certification Standards essential
• Bachelor of Engineering (or equivalent)
• Quality auditor certification
• Lean Six Sigma Certification (Green Belt desired)

Note: This role involves regular on-site engagement with suppliers, requiring significant time away from the home office. Travel is primarily local and planned to minimise disruption, with some interstate and infrequent international travel as required.

Clearances

As a Defence security clearance is required for this role, applicants must be Australian citizens and either possess or be eligible to obtain and maintain appropriate clearances. Further information regarding security clearances.

We believe in hiring for potential, we know that some candidates hesitate if they don’t tick all the boxes. If this role interests you, but you don’t meet all the criteria, we still encourage you to apply.

About US

At BAE Systems Australia, you’ll join a workplace that genuinely cares about your wellbeing. We value diversity and understand that an inclusive culture helps everyone thrive. As Australia’s largest defence company, you’ll be part of a global team delivering some of the most advanced and meaningful work in the country — with endless opportunities to shape your career, wherever it may lead.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to apply. We’re proud to be recognised as an employer of choice for women by WORK180 and to be awarded the Benchmarcx ‘Top Employer for Candidate Experience Excellence 2026′.

To learn more about our employee benefits, flexibility options, and recruitment process, visit BAE Systems Careers: www.baesystemscareers.com.au