Sourcing Engineer
Location: Dover, NH
Reports to: Director of Engineering
About Q, LLCQ, LLC is a privately owned, New Hampshire-based leader in modern firearms innovation and manufacturing. We are known for our cutting-edge product development, rapid prototyping, and high standards of quality. We are seeking a highly organized and proactive Sourcing Engineer to support our engineering and production teams through strategic procurement, vendor management, and cross-functional coordination.
Position Summary
The Sourcing Engineer is a key member of the engineering and supply chain team responsible for supporting new product development, prototype builds, and operational sourcing activities. This role combines technical understanding with strategic procurement to ensure components, materials, and services are sourced efficiently and meet engineering, cost, and schedule requirements.
The Sourcing Engineer works closely with engineering, team to identify qualified suppliers, support prototype and development builds, evaluate make-versus-buy decisions, and ensure timely procurement of critical components. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and is capable of managing sourcing projects from concept through production.
Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesResponsibilities include, but are not limited to:
New Product Development & Prototype Sourcing
Partner with engineering and design teams to source custom and off-the-shelf components for prototype and development builds
Support Requests for Quotation (RFQs) and analyze supplier quotes for cost, lead time, and technical compliance
Evaluate make-versus-buy decisions and recommend optimal sourcing strategies
Coordinate procurement activities to support prototype builds, testing, and product validation milestones
Supplier Identification & Development
Identify, qualify, and develop suppliers capable of meeting technical, quality, and cost requirements
Build and maintain strong supplier relationships to support innovation, quality, and lead-time improvements
Work with engineering and quality teams to resolve technical issues and support supplier performance improvements
Assist with supplier onboarding and qualification processes
Scheduling & Project Coordination
Develop and maintain purchasing schedules aligned with engineering development timelines and production needs
Coordinate with engineering, production, and maintenance teams to ensure materials are available to meet project milestones
Monitor supplier performance and proactively mitigate potential supply risks
Procurement & Budget Management
Track sourcing budgets and provide reporting on procurement spend versus forecast
Support cost reduction initiatives through supplier negotiation and alternative sourcing strategies
Recommend sourcing adjustments to meet cost and schedule objectives
Commodity and Materials Sourcing
Source raw materials, components, and standard hardware required for prototype and production support
Monitor stock levels of critical components to maintain availability while minimizing excess inventory
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Industrial Technology, Supply Chain, or a related technical field
3+ years of experience in purchasing, planning, or supply chain roles
Understanding of manufacturing processes and the ability to read and interpret technical drawings
- Experience with ERP or MRP systems for procurement and scheduling
Strong communication, negotiation, and organizational skills
Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
Desired Qualifications
Experience supporting new product development (NPD) or new product introduction (NPI) programs
- Project management certification or formal training (PMP, CAPM, Lean Six Sigma, or equivalent)
Familiarity with manufacturing processes such as machining, fabrication, casting, molding, or assembly
Experience evaluating make-versus-buy decisions and cost modeling
Experience with supplier development or supplier qualification processes
Proficiency with QuickBooks for purchase orders, vendor management, and spend tracking
Experience working with prototype builds, engineering change orders (ECOs), and product revisions
Knowledge of strategic sourcing or commodity management practices
Physical Demands and Work EnvironmentThis role involves primarily office-based work with periodic visits to the production floor and prototype shop. It requires the ability to sit and work at a computer for extended periods, as well as occasional lifting or handling of materials and parts. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.
The Company reserves the right to conduct background investigations and/or reference checks on all of its potential employees as well as a drug screening.
