Project Leader

KI Industries, Inc.; Santiago de Querétaro; On-site; MXN 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Job summary

KI Industries, Inc. in Querétaro, Mexico, seeks a Project Leader to manage end-to-end NPI projects in an automotive manufacturing setting. You will lead planning, execution and monitoring using APQP to ensure on-time delivery, cost control and quality.

Responsibilities include cross-functional leadership, timeline management, budget control, and APQP deliverables such as PFMEA, Control Plans, PPAP and Process Flow Diagrams, with KPI tracking and risk management using 8D.

Qualifications

• Experience leading end-to-end NPI projects in automotive environments.
• Strong understanding of APQP, PFMEA, Control Plans, PPAP.
• Ability to interpret GD&T and process documentation.

Responsibilities

• Lead cross-functional teams through full project lifecycle.
• Develop and control project timelines and budgets.
• Drive APQP deliverables: PFMEA, Control Plans, PPAP, Process Flow Diagrams.
• Monitor KPIs related to quality, delivery and cost.
• Serve as main customer contact and manage risk using 8D method.

Skills

APQP

PPAP

PFMEA

Control Plan

MS Project

Quality standards (IATF 16949, ISO 140

Tools

MS Project

Job description

Position Summary – Project Leader

The Project Leader is responsible for the end-to-end management of New Product Introduction (NPI) projects, ensuring successful delivery in terms of timing, cost, and quality within an automotive manufacturing environment.

This role leads the planning, execution, and monitoring of projects using structured methodologies such as APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning), ensuring compliance with industry standards including IATF 16949, VDA, and customer-specific requirements.

Core Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate cross-functional teams (engineering, quality, production, supply chain, etc.) throughout the full project lifecycle
• Develop, maintain, and control project timelines (timing plans), ensuring milestones are achieved
• Manage project resources and budget, balancing cost efficiency with performance targets
• Drive execution of APQP deliverables, including:
  • PFMEA (Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis)
  • Control Plans
  • PPAP (Production Part Approval Process)
  • Process Flow Diagrams
• Monitor and report KPIs related to project performance (quality, delivery, cost)
• Act as the main point of contact with customers, ensuring clear communication and alignment of expectations
• Identify risks, lead problem-solving activities (8D methodology), and elevate critical issues to management when needed
• Ensure compliance with quality, environmental, and safety regulations, including ISO 14001 and internal policies
• Capture and share lessons learned to improve future project execution

Technical Knowledge & Expertise Required

• Strong understanding of automotive core tools:
  • APQP, PPAP, PFMEA, Control Plan, MSA, SPC
• Experience in plastic injection molding processes and related secondary operations such as:
  • Painting, printing, laser engraving, and finishing processes
• Ability to interpret:
  • Technical drawings and GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing)
  • Process documentation and quality standards
• Knowledge of manufacturing environments and production constraints
• Familiarity with project planning tools (e.g., MS Project) and tracking systems
• Understanding of budget control and financial impact of projects