Quality Operations Specialist

Aptiv PLC; Wuppertal; On-site; EUR 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

30 days annual leave

Permanent contract

Internal training and certifications

International environment

CSR involvement

Job summary

Aptiv PLC is seeking a senior Quality Manager to lead quality activities across the value chain in our automotive operations. You will drive cross-functional teams to resolve complex quality issues, ensure QMS compliance, and oversee audits with OEM partners to sustain product and process excellence.

The role requires strong leadership, hands-on quality management experience in manufacturing, and deep knowledge of IATF 16949, VDA, FMEA, APQP/PPAP, SPC, and MSA.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related technical field with quality focus.
• Several years of quality management experience, ideally in automotive.
• Experience with audits (internal, external, OEM).
• Knowledge of IATF 16949, VDA, FMEA, APQP, PPAP, SPC, and MSA.
• Strong English communication; able to lead cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead quality activities across the value chain with impact on product quality.
• Represent Quality to internal and external stakeholders.
• Drive cross-functional teams to resolve complex quality issues.
• Implement corrective and preventive actions; monitor system-level effectiveness.
• Define actions based on KPI analysis and quality metrics.
• Ensure QMS compliance and audit readiness including IATF 16949, VDA.
• Coordinate supplier and project quality improvements.
• Collaborate with Production, Engineering, Supply Chain and customers.
• Oversee system improvements and process harmonization.
• Maintain ongoing customer requirement integration.

Skills

Quality leadership

Stakeholder management

Problem solving

Decision making

Initiative

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

IATF 16949

VDA

FMEA

APQP/PPAP

SPC/MSA

Job description

Key Responsibilities

• Take on leadership and decision-making responsibilities in the absence of the Quality Manager.
• Represent the Quality function to internal and external stakeholders.
• Lead and oversee all quality-related activities across the value chain, with direct impact on product and process quality.
• Drive cross-functional teams to resolve complex quality issues.
• Ensure the sustainable implementation of corrective and preventive actions, including system-level effectiveness monitoring.
• Define and prioritize actions based on KPI analysis and quality performance metrics.
• Proactively identify quality risks and elevate critical issues as needed.
• Ensure the effectiveness and continuous improvement of the local Quality Management System (QMS), including compliance with IATF 16949, VDA, and OEM-specific requirements.
• Lead system improvements, process harmonization, and maintain site audit readiness.
• Ensure effective integration and long-term sustainability of customer requirements within internal processes.
• Support the planning, execution, and quality of internal and external audits.
• Ensure timely closure of audit findings and verification of corrective action effectiveness.
• Collaborate closely with Production, Engineering, Supply Chain, and customers to drive continuous quality improvement.
• Actively contribute to the development of supplier quality and project quality.

Qualifications & Background

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a comparable technical qualification with a strong focus on quality.
• Several years of solid experience in Quality Management, preferably within the automotive industry.
• Experience in a manufacturing environment is an advantage.
• In-depth knowledge of industry standards and methodologies, including IATF 16949, VDA, FMEA, APQP, PPAP, SPC, and MSA.
• Proven track record of managing complex quality processes and projects.
• Experience with internal, external, and customer audits, as well as collaboration with OEMs.
• Strong written and verbal English communication skills.
• Ability to take ownership, assume responsibility, and make sound decisions.
• High level of initiative, results orientation, and business mindset.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills across all organizational levels.

Benefits

• In addition to an attractive compensation package, Aptiv offers 30 days of annual leave and overtime compensation.
• You can look forward to a secure, permanent employment contract with continuous opportunities for internal career development, including within an international environment.
• Through access to internal and external training programs, coaching, and certifications, you will have ongoing opportunities to develop your skills and advance your career.
• We recognize and reward innovation and outstanding performance.
• You will work in a highly international and collaborative environment, partnering with industry experts on equal footing.
• You will have the opportunity to get involved in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
• At Aptiv, you will have the chance to actively shape the future of mobility by working closely with nearly all major global OEMs and leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as e-mobility and autonomous driving.

Aptiv is an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.