Automotive APQP Launch Quality Engineer

Role Overview

Step onto the manufacturing floor as pilot parts are being molded and stamped. You’ve already aligned with Operations and Engineering on the day’s build plan, and your APQP deliverables are poised to keep launch on track. As the Automotive APQP Launch Quality Engineer, you make sure every new product reaches customers with robust processes, clear controls, and data-backed confidence.

What a Day Might Look Like

• Kick off a cross-functional huddle to confirm Control Plans, PFMEAs/DFMEAs, process flows, and work instructions are current for a new product introduction.
• Walk the injection molding, stamping, and light assembly areas to validate controls, coach operators, and spot improvement opportunities.
• Review performance charts and SPC data, flag anomalies, and lead a swift, cross-functional response to protect uninterrupted supply.
• Run a root cause investigation for an internal nonconformance while drafting a customer-facing corrective action report.
• Coordinate subassembly testing to narrow the scope of a quality issue and verify results with metrology data.
• Approve a supplier PPAP package against AIAG guidelines and close the loop on their corrective action.
• Verify required regulatory and industry testing (FMVSS, ECE, ISO, SAE) is executed correctly in-house or at third-party labs.

Where You’ll Lead

Product Launch & Manufacturing Support

• Own quality planning for new product introductions using APQP.
• Develop, review, and maintain FMEAs, Control Plans, process flows, and work instructions.
• Partner with Operations and Engineering to sustain uninterrupted product supply and drive continuous improvement.
• Analyze product performance data and lead cross-functional resolution efforts.
• Provide hands-on quality support for injection molding, stamping, and light assembly.

Quality Engineering & Problem Solving

• Lead internal and customer-facing root cause investigations and corrective actions.
• Document and resolve issues tied to internal manufacturing and supplier components.
• Plan and evaluate component/subassembly testing to pinpoint scope and root cause.
• Prepare customer corrective action reports; review and approve supplier corrective actions.
• Review and approve supplier PPAPs per AIAG and best manufacturing practices.

Measurement & Technical Expertise

• Serve as the metrology SME: measurement systems, GR&R, capability analysis, and SPC.
• Ensure proper application of GD&T and tolerance stacks on component and assembly drawings.
• Confirm FMVSS, ECE, ISO, and SAE testing is performed correctly internally or by third parties.
• Analyze metrology outputs to recommend tooling or process corrections.

Quality Management System

• Implement, maintain, and improve the QMS to ISO 9001:2015 and IATF 16949 standards.
• Participate in internal audits; refine procedures and system processes.
• Track, analyze, and drive improvement for Cost of Quality (COQ) and Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ).
• Perform other related duties as assigned by the Quality Manager.

What You Bring

Skills & Experience

• Automotive background preferred, with exposure to global OEM customers and suppliers.
• Clear communication skills across written, verbal, and presentation formats.
• Exceptional analytical ability and root cause problem solving.
• Proven leadership with experience mentoring and influencing cross-functional teams.
• Comfort making timely, data-driven decisions.
• Fluency in quality and engineering tools: APQP, PPAP, PFMEA, DFMEA, Control Plans; MSA, SPC; problem-solving methodologies.
• Experience with manufacturing processes and/or tooling design.
• Experience executing quality system audits.
• Six Sigma Green Belt or higher preferred.
• Strong PC skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Quality Assurance, Manufacturing, Engineering, or related technical field.
• Minimum of 3 years of Quality Assurance experience.
• Track record of innovative solutions to complex technical challenges.
• Success building effective working relationships with customers, suppliers, and internal teams.
• Experience collaborating with contract manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Occasional standing, walking, sitting, climbing stairs, kneeling, crouching, and lifting up to 30 lbs.
• Valid passport required; up to 20% domestic and international travel.
• Hybrid environment within the same facility: office and manufacturing floor.
• Exposure to moderate noise and occasional outdoor, all-weather conditions.