Quality engineer in production (Heroica Puebla de Zaragoza)

About the Role

As an Apparel Supplier Quality Engineer, you will be the on-the-ground quality leader for our supplier based in Mexico and Central America (El Salvador, Nicaragua, Guatemala). You will partner closely with factories at every stage of the product lifecycle, from pre-production through final inspection, to ensure Ariat's quality standards are met consistently. This is a highly autonomous, field-based role with significant impact on product quality and supplier performance.

Supplier Quality & Auditing

• Conducting Quality Management System audits at new and existing suppliers to assess capability and compliance.
• Reviewing supplier performance scorecards regularly, identifying trends and driving measurable improvements.
• Arranging and conducting in-line and final product inspections, providing technical guidance and solutions on quality issues.
• Participating in and advising during supplier pre-production meetings to ensure control plans are aligned with Ariat quality standards.
• Reviewing development and pre-production samples against specifications to confirm they meet standards before bulk production begins.
• Identifying product quality risks early and developing proactive solution plans.

Collaboration & Strategy

• Collaborating closely with HQ teams across Sourcing, Production, Technical Design, and Quality to align on standards and priorities.
• Executing and continuously improving the regional supplier quality strategy in partnership with the general Supplier Quality team.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of quality operations experience in the apparel and denim industry, ideally with a regional supplier base.
• Fluency in both English and Spanish (written and verbal).
• Deep familiarity with garment construction, fabric quality, and apparel manufacturing processes.
• Proven experience leading root cause analysis and CAPA processes.
• Proficiency with quality management systems and tools in English.

Ariat is an innovative, outdoor global brand with roots in equestrian performance. We develop high-quality footwear and apparel for people who ride, work, and play outdoors, and care about performance, quality, comfort, and style.

This contract position may be eligible for select benefits through the payrolling agency. Benefits may include medical, dental, and vision insurance options and 401k.

Ariat will consider qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with state and local laws. Ariat is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetics or any other basis protected under federal, state, or local law.