Senior Specialist, Supplier Project Lead

Here at Scout Motors, we're carrying forward the heritage of one of the most iconic American vehicles in history. A vehicle dating back to 1960. One that forged the path for future generations of rugged SUVs and will do so once again.

But Scout is more than just a brand, it’s a legacy steeped in a culture of exploration, caretaking, and hard work.

The Scout brand is all about respect. Respect for the environment by developing electric vehicles with the capability to get you to any location. Respect for the past and the future by taking an iconic American brand that hasn’t been around for a while, electrifying it, digitizing it, and loading it with American innovation. Respect for communities by creating a company that stands for its people and its customers. And respect for both work and play, with vehicles that are equally at home at a camp site, a job site, or on a Tuesday commute.

At Scout Motors, we empower our talented, inclusive, and entrepreneurial teams to innovate. What makes a Scout employee? Someone who is a visionary and a leader, who seeks new paths and shares lessons learned. A knowledgeable doer who collaborates across the company to build better. A go-getter with unrivaled passion.

Join us at Scout Motors and be part of shaping the future of transportation. If you're ready to drive change and make history, apply now!

Role Overview

The Supplier Project Lead is responsible for leading and implementing supplier quality processes to ensure suppliers meet Scout Motors’ standards for performance, reliability, and manufacturability. This role bridges Quality, Purchasing, Engineering, and Logistics to ensure technical alignment, timely supplier readiness, and overall quality excellence throughout the vehicle development and production lifecycle.

What you’ll do

Become part of an iconic brand that is set to revolutionize the electric pick-up truck & rugged SUV marketplace by achieving the following:

• Leadership & Process Implementation
  • Lead the execution of Supplier Quality processes including PPA, QPNi, TEVON, BeOn, AVON, GAS TI, and LiON.
  • Serve as the subject matter expert (SME) to train Supplier Quality Engineers (SQEs) on these systems.
  • Create and manage weekly agendas and Q-Ratings with cross-functional teams.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Facilitate clear communication between Suppliers, Purchasing, Quality, and Design to ensure transparency.
  • Collaborate with Design, Manufacturing, and Quality to establish supplier performance metrics and specifications.
  • Partner with Supply Chain to escalate and resolve issues efficiently.
• Supplier Development & Monitoring
  • Support SQEs in assessing suppliers’ manufacturing, assembly, and quality control processes.
  • Drive supplier improvements in cost, quality, and manufacturability.
  • Lead corrective action follow-ups and verify supplier readiness for launches and design changes.
  • Ensure proactive change management and PPAP approvals.
• Quality System & Compliance
  • Apply VDA and AIAG core tools (MSA, APQP, FMEA, Control Plan, PPAP).
  • Support root cause analysis and implement containment or corrective actions.
  • Validate supplier corrective actions and ensure lessons learned are applied across similar lines.
• Continuous Improvement & Technical Support
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing principles.
  • Facilitate the use of new or alternative materials that enhance design or reduce cost.
  • Participate in supplier evaluations and manufacturability reviews.
  • Support suppliers in developing testing, gauging, and poke-yoke systems.
• Quality Performance & KPI Management
  • Ensure Scout quality KPIs are achieved or exceeded.
  • Support NCR (non-conformance report) resolution with production.
  • Mitigate warranty claims and ensure long-term issue closure.
• Professional Conduct
  • Represent Scout Motors with professionalism and respect during supplier interactions.
  • Perform other duties as assigned in alignment with Scout’s quality and business goals.

Location & Travel Expectations:

• This role will be based out of the Scout Motors location in Columbia, South Carolina. 
• The responsibilities of this role require attendance in office with in-person meetings and events regularly. 
• Applicants should expect that the role will require the ability to convene with Scout colleagues in person and travel to participate in events on behalf of the company from time to time.
• Travel: Domestic and international travel required