Position Summary The Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) for Socks & Technical Knitwear is the ultimate gatekeeper of material integrity, structural quality, and manufacturing standards across our general supply chain.
This is a highly technical, hands‐on role.
1. Technical Material & Yarn Quality Assurance Yarn & Fiber Validation: Audit and verify raw materials, ensuring that yarn counts, filament structures, and fiber compositions (Nylon, Spandex, Combed Cotton blends) meet structural compression and performance benchmarks.
Grip & Polymer Chemistry Integrity: Oversee the quality, execution, and durability of silicone/PVC grip applications on performance socks.
Troubleshoot and resolve adhesion failures, cracking, or peeling caused by fabric softeners or chemical finishes.
Lab Testing Compliance: Manage physical and chemical laboratory testing protocols (e.g., colorfastness to sweat/washing, abrasion resistance, pilling benchmarks, and ASTM stretch & recovery metrics).
Interpret third‐party lab results to approve or reject bulk material lots.
2. Factory Quality Management & Production Auditing Knitting Machinery & Specification Alignment: Preview and technically audit sample stages (Protos, SMS, PPS) against Tech Packs.
Verify machine cylinder diameters, stitch tension, and needle counts/gauges to ensure production capability.
Root‐Cause Analysis (RCA): Lead the technical investigation and resolution of manufacturing and structural defects (e.g., irregular shrinkage, yarn breakage, seam failures, or sizing distortions).
Supplier Risk & WIP Monitoring: Conduct quality risk assessments on high‐complexity styles.
Routinely monitor factory WIP (Work‐In‐Progress) logs and audit factory quality management systems (QMS) to ensure consistent output.
3.



International Communication & Cross‐Functional Alignment Global Supplier Accountability: Direct daily technical communication with overseas finished‐goods manufacturers and yarn mills (primarily in Asia).
Hold vendors accountable to strict quality corrective action plans (CAPA).
Note: Requires flexibility for bi‐weekly after‐hours calls due to overseas time zones.
Cross‐Functional Feedback: Partner closely with Product Development and Design teams to review wear‐testing trials and feedback, ensuring that quality standards are engineered into the product without sacrificing design intent.
Job Requirements & Qualifications Education: Bachelor's degree in Textile Engineering, Material Science, Industrial Manufacturing Engineering, or a highly technical, knitting‐focused discipline.
Experience: 5+ years of experience as a Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE), Quality Assurance Engineer, or Technical Developer within the apparel industry.
Explicit experience in socks, hosiery, or seamless knitwear production is mandatory.
Technical Skills: Deep applied comprehension of sock circular knitting machinery, needle counts, and cylinder gauges.
Profound knowledge of technical yarn performance properties (moisture‐wicking, antimicrobial, high‐elongation Spandex).
Expertise in executing Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA) and root‐cause analysis methodologies (5 Whys, 8 D, Fishbone).
Advanced proficiency in MS Excel (Master Data/WIP tracking) and basic familiarity with Adobe Illustrator and PLM systems.
Language & Travel: 100% Fluent English is mandatory (C1/C2 level) for daily international vendor management and corporate reporting.
Must possess a Valid U. S. Visa and the ability to travel internationally to audit material mills and production lines on‐site.
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📌 Supplier Quality Engineer (Socks & Technical Knitwear) (Tijuana)
🏢 Staffvia
📍 Tijuana