Job DescriptionESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:- Lead and manage the APQP process from concept through production launch and post-launch activities.
- Ensure all APQP deliverables are completed on time, including PFMEA, Control Plans, Process Flow Diagrams, and Measurement System Analysis (MSA).
- Coordinate and facilitate cross-functional APQP team meetings involving Quality, Engineering, Manufacturing, Purchasing, and Suppliers.
- Drive issue resolution, risk mitigation, and escalation during new product introductions and engineering changes.
- Oversee and approve PPAP submissions to customers and ensure compliance with customer-specific requirements.
- Serve as the primary interface with customers on APQP, PPAP, and launch readiness topics.
- Ensure customer milestones and timelines are met without compromising quality or compliance.
- Ensure robust risk identification and prevention using FMEA methodologies.
- Verify effective control plans and process capability prior to launch.
- Ensure lessons learned are captured and incorporated into future programs.
- Work closely with Supplier Quality to align supplier APQP activities with internal timelines and requirements.
- Support supplier APQP reviews, development activities, and launch readiness assessments.
- Partner with manufacturing teams to ensure equipment, tooling, and processes are validated prior to production.
- Establish and monitor APQP performance metrics, including launch quality, timing, and defect prevention.
- Report APQP and launch status to leadership and initiate corrective actions when targets are not met.
- Drive continuous improvement of APQP processes, tools, and standard practices.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:QUALIFICATIONS:- Strong knowledge of IATF 16949 / ISO 9001 standards
- APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans
- Lean / Six Sigma methodologies
- Statistical analysis and quality data reporting
- Blueprint and engineering drawing interpretation
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and quality management systems
- Experience with inspection tools (CMM, calipers, micrometers, gauges)
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:- Bachelor's degree in engineering (Manufacturing, Mechanical, Industrial) or a related field, or equivalent experience.
- 7-10 years of experience in manufacturing quality or engineering.
- Extensive hands-on experience with APQP and PPAP in automotive or regulated manufacturing environments.
COMPUTER SKILLS:Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel. Experience with ERP systems and knowledge of Infor ERP (MAPICS) preferred.
CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:- ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)
- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt
- IATF 16949 / ISO 9001 Lead Auditor
KEY PPERFORMANCE INDICATORS (KPIs):- On-Time APQP Milestone Completion (%)
- On-Time PPAP Submission Rate (%)
- Launch Readiness Approval (Gate Pass Rate)
- EnOn-Time Launch Issue Closure (%)
- Repeat Launch Issues Rate
- Corrective Action Effectiveness Engineering Change Implementation Timeliness
WORK ENVIRONMENT:Combination of office, manufacturing floor, and supplier locations
Use of PPE required in production areas
Domestic and occasional international travel may be required
