Aerospace Quality Engineering Lead (APQP/AS9100)

American Rheinmetall; Quality (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 195,000; Full time

Job summary

American Rheinmetall is seeking a Quality Engineering Manager to lead the quality engineering team in implementing APQP per AS9145 and driving continuous improvement across product development, engineering, and manufacturing. You will guide the creation of robust processes and engage cross-functional partners to ensure quality milestones are met.

The role requires deep knowledge of aerospace/defense quality systems, ISO 9001/AS9100, and hands-on leadership.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in quality engineering with APQP per AS9145.
• Solid understanding of quality assurance methodologies, tools, and industry standards, particularly in aerospace and defense.
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 and AS9100 Standards.
• Knowledge of Systems based design and related standards/processes.
• Strong track record in Continuous Improvement with proven implementation.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with ability to deliver solutions.
• Strong written and verbal communication to external and internal customers.
• Familiarity with US DoD processes for vehicle development and acquisition.
• Hands-on, independent working style with collaborative mindset.
• Ability to influence cross-functional teams and drive teamwork across the organization.
• Self-motivated with ability to multitask and meet deadlines under pressure.
• Proficiency with quality tools and methodologies including 8D, Six Sigma, SPC, MSA, and root cause analysis.
• Experience with QMS software and data analysis tools (e.g., Minitab, JMP) preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing quality engineering team.
• Foster collaboration across departments to achieve quality objectives.
• Oversee APQP processes per AS9145 ensuring quality in vehicle development.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to define quality requirements and timelines.
• Develop and manage PPAP documentation to validate product quality.
• Manage PFMEA implementation to identify and mitigate risks.
• Create and maintain control plans for critical processes.
• Coordinate vehicle build timelines with quality milestones.
• Identify, analyze, and resolve quality issues with corrective actions.
• Utilize quality metrics and KPIs for data-driven decisions.
• Lead quality reviews and audits per internal standards and regulations.
• Update Documentation and Procedures per AS9100 and customer requirements.
• Lead or participate in AS9100 audits.
• Support safety and environmental regulations.
• Undertake other duties as assigned by Quality Director.

Skills

APQP

AS9145

Quality Assurance

Continuous Improvement

QA Methodologies

Problem Solving

Communication

DoD Knowledge

Leadership

Collaboration

Customer Focus

Multitasking

Quality Tools

QMS Tools

Education

Bachelor's in Engineering, Quality or Business Administration

Tools

Minitab

JMP

Job description

American Rheinmetall is seeking a Quality Engineering Manager to lead the quality engineering team in implementing APQP per AS9145 and driving continuous improvement across product development, engineering, and manufacturing. You will guide the creation of robust processes and engage cross-functional partners to ensure quality milestones are met.

The role requires deep knowledge of aerospace/defense quality systems, ISO 9001/AS9100, and hands-on leadership.