ESSENTIAL 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: • None 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