Supplier Development Engineer - Cylinders and Hydraulics

Business: Hiab Job Function: Supply Chain Location: Apply by: -- Country/Region: PL Hiab is the pioneer in smart and sustainable on road load handling solutions. We believe in more than just work — we believe in making a difference for our customers to building a better tomorrow. Say Hi! to your next challenge — explore the opportunity and apply below! Your mission The Supplier Development Engineer is responsible for driving the technical development and performance of suppliers within a specific commodity or technology area (Hydraulics and Cylinders). This role focuses on developing and maintaining technical expertise in the assigned commodity while supporting a flexible team structure capable of handling a broad range of technology projects. The Supplier Development Engineer will lead key supplier initiatives, including managing the PPAP (Production Part Approval Process), supplier assessments, sustainability audits, and supplier performance reviews. They will work closely with suppliers and internal teams to enhance technical capabilities, ensure scalability, and drive value creation and continuous improvement efforts. This position offers remote/hybrid work mode. The primary location is Stargard, but we are open to applications from Poland overall. Key responsibilities Develop in-depth technical expertise in assigned commodities (e.g., Hydraulics, Cylinders) and technologies, ensuring a deep understanding of supplier capabilities and industry best practices Maintain a flexible team structure to effectively manage diverse technology projects within the scope of the assigned commodity Manage New Product Development (NPD) processes with suppliers, ensuring smooth execution from initial design through to production. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to manage NPDs, source changes, and product design modifications to meet organizational needs Assume ownership of the PPAP procedure, ensuring that all production parts meet quality and technical standards before production release Oversee source changes, ensuring compliance with all necessary approvals and technical requirements Lead supplier assessments, conducting technical evaluations and performance audits to ensure alignment with quality, capacity, and operational standards Perform sustainability audits and capacity evaluations, ensuring suppliers are capable of meeting long-term production demands and sustainability goals Continuously review supplier performance to ensure scalability and identify areas for improvement Oversee the development and execution of recovery plans for suppliers facing escalated technical or operational issues Work closely with suppliers to define clear action plans, provide technical support, and ensure the successful resolution of any supplier-related challenges Develop and implement comprehensive supplier roadmaps, detailing focus areas for improvement, performance goals, and milestones Establish a robust monitoring and governance framework to track supplier performance and progress against defined targets Regularly update and communicate the status of supplier development initiatives to key stakeholders within the organization Lead value creation initiatives with suppliers, driving cost reduction, process optimization, and product innovation efforts in collaboration with the SD Excellence team and broader sourcing organization Work with suppliers to implement continuous improvement strategies that enhance product quality, reduce lead times, and optimize overall supply chain efficiency Conduct detailed SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analyses of suppliers’ technical capabilities, using the results to guide future supplier selection and project development strategies Provide strategic recommendations based on supplier analysis to support the organization’s long-term goals and product development needs Drive the execution of sustainability initiatives in collaboration with assigned suppliers, ensuring environmental and social governance (ESG) targets are met and exceeded Implement continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma) to drive operational enhancements within the supplier base and foster a culture of ongoing improvement. What we are looking for Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or a related field (Master’s degree is a plus) Strong technical expertise in one of the following commodities: Hydraulics, Cylinders Proven experience in supplier development, quality management, or procurement, with a focus on technical supplier relationships In-depth knowledge of the PPAP process, New Product Development (NPD) cycles, and source change management Strong understanding of sustainability audits, capacity evaluations, and supplier performance assessments Experience in leading recovery plans and resolving escalated supplier issues effectively Familiarity with continuous improvement methodologies, such as Lean, Six Sigma, or Kaizen Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills with the ability to make data-driven decisions Strong communication and interpersonal skills, capable of building relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment while managing multiple projects and priorities Excellent level of spoken and written English. What we offer As a part of our Employees First culture, we offer opportunities to grow within a dynamic environment that values flexibility and your well-being. We strive to make things easier, empower you to succeed, and strive for excellence in a positive and inclusive environment. Our benefits include Private medical care Life insurance Company car Meal subsidy / Meal allowance An extra day off for your birthday MultiSport or Medicover Sport card Free coffee and tea plus Fruit Wednesdays Ready to apply? Click on the apply button below to send in your application in English. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Please note that the process for this position is coordinated by our Recruitment team part of Hiab Business Services based in Bulgaria. We Are Hiab Hiab (Nasdaq Helsinki: HIAB) is a leading provider of smart and sustainable on road load-handling solutions, committed to delivering the best customer experience every day with the most engaged people and partners. As the industry pioneer, Hiab continues to make on road load-handling smarter, safer and more sustainable to build a better tomorrow. www.hiabgroup.com Job Segment: Supply Chain, Six Sigma, Lean Six Sigma, Supply Chain Manager, Product Development, Operations, Management, Research