Supplier Quality Engineer

EssilorLuxottica, a fully integrated player, is a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of ophthalmic lenses, frames and sunglasses. The company brings together the complementary expertise of two industry pioneers, one in advanced lens technologies and the other in the craftsmanship of iconic eyewear, to create a vertically-integrated business that is uniquely positioned to address the world’s evolving vision needs and the global demand of a growing eyewear industry. A unique global footprint with a worldwide presence across all stages of the value chain, EssilorLuxottica has over 180,000 employees committed to providing vision care and eyewear products that meet the individual needs and aspirations of each consumer. Our unique business model and relentless pursuit of operational excellence ensures that consumers everywhere have access to products that have been rigorously tested to meet internationally recognized standards, from the simplest pair of glasses to the most sophisticated custom-made lenses and branded eyewear. For more information, please visit https://www.essilorluxottica.com

Nice to know

The Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) is responsible for ensuring that materials and components supplied to the plant meet EssilorLuxottica’s quality standards and specifications. Reporting to the Supplier Quality Supervisor, the SQE plays a key role in supplier development, product and process qualification, supplier performance management, and problem resolution.

The SQE works closely with the plant’s production, quality, engineering, and purchasing teams to understand quality issues, define effective containment actions, and ensure clear and timely communication with suppliers to identify root causes and implement sustainable corrective actions. This position supports the qualification of new products and processes through the application of APQP and PPAP methodologies, and actively participates in supplier audits, process assessments, and supplier performance reviews.

By utilizing quality tools such as 5W2H, FMEA, statistical analysis, and problem-solving methodologies, the SQE ensures the robustness of supplier processes and contributes to the overall effectiveness of the plant’s supply chain. The role also fosters continuous improvement by collaborating cross-functionally with Purchasing, Engineering, Quality, and Operations, supporting new product introductions and driving supplier capability and performance improvements.

My day at EssilorLuxottica

Main Responsibilities:  

• Monitor and evaluate supplier quality performance using data-driven methods, including incoming inspection results, non-conformities, and defect trends
• Lead root cause analysis and drive effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) with suppliers, ensuring timely implementation and verification of effectiveness.
• Drive supplier quality improvement initiatives by monitoring supplier performance indicators, identifying recurring issues, and defining improvement actions with suppliers.
• Support the qualification of new products, processes, and suppliers in accordance with EssilorLuxottica’s APQP and PPAP standards.
• Conduct supplier audits to assess quality systems and critical manufacturing processes; provide support and guidance to suppliers for system and process improvement, and follow up on audit findings and corrective actions.
• Ensure that supplier quality documentation, specifications, control plans, and inspection requirements are properly defined and maintained throughout the product lifecycle.
• Work closely with Plant Quality and Operations to investigate supplier-related defects identified during production, defining effective containment and escalation actions in case of quality urgencies.
• Perform other tasks and responsibilities as assigned by the Supplier Quality Supervisor or Quality Manager.

Must have

Minimum Qualification

• Minimum Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Materials Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Good command of written and spoken English, with the ability to communicate effectively with international suppliers and cross-functional teams.
• Good knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and PowerPoint.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Willing to travel domestically and internationally.
• Ability to analyze quality data, identify trends, and use data to support problem-solving and decision-making.
• Good understanding of manufacturing processes, quality control methods, and supplier quality management principles.
• Familiarity with quality tools and problem-solving methodologies, such as 5 Why, 5W2H, FMEA, SPC, MSA/GR&R, Control Plan, 8D, and other QC tools.
• Ability to read and understand technical drawings, specifications, and quality requirements.
• 2–3 years of experience in Quality, Quality Engineering, Manufacturing Quality, Supplier Quality, or a related technical quality function.

Preferred Qualification

• Previous experience in optical, eyewear, or sunglass frame manufacturing, engineering, or quality is preferred.
• Knowledge of statistical quality control methods and data analysis tools (e.g., Minitab).
• ISO 9001 External Auditor certification or experience in conducting supplier audits is preferred.
• Lean Six Sigma certification or experience with continuous improvement methodologies is preferred.
• Experience with SAP and/or quality management systems is preferred.