APQP Engineer: Launch & Quality Lead in Metal Fabrication

IFAB Corp.; Gastonia (NC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation package

Health, dental, vision insurance

401(k) matching

PTO and holidays

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

IFAB Corp. in Gastonia, NC seeks an APQP Engineer to lead Advanced Product Quality Planning from quote award through production launch.

You will work with Engineering, Tooling, Production, Quality, and Customers to plan, validate, and launch new and changed parts across stamping, laser cutting, tube bending, forming, welding, and finishing. The ideal candidate has 3+ years APQP/PPAP, AIAG Core Tools/IATF 16949 knowledge, and strong CAD/GD&T literacy.

Qualifications

• 3+ years APQP/PPAP experience in manufacturing environments.
• Strong knowledge of AIAG Core Tools and IATF 16949 / ISO 9001.
• Read blueprints and GD&T; understand stamping, laser, welding and coating.
• Project management, cross-functional leadership, and clear customer communication.
• Microsoft Office; ERP systems and Minitab experience a plus.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical/Industrial/Manufacturing/Quality Engineering.
• ASQ CQE, AIAG Core Tools or Lean Six Sigma certifications preferred.
• English/Spanish language skills are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead APQP for new and changed parts across five phases with on-time launches.
• Prepare and submit PPAP packages (Levels 1–5) per AIAG and customer requirements.
• Develop PFMEAs, Control Plans, and Process Flow Diagrams; drive risk mitigation.
• Review drawings, GD&T, and specs; lead manufacturability analyses.
• Plan MSA, dimensional layouts, capability studies and run-at-rate trials.
• Serve as main quality contact for OEMs during launches; coordinate with suppliers.
• Manage engineering changes and update quality documentation.
• Support continuous improvement (8D, 5 Why, Ishikawa) and EHS standards.

Skills

APQP/PPAP experience

Project management

Cross-functional leadership

Problem solving

Customer communication

Blueprint reading

GD&T knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Industrial/Manufacturing/Quality Engineering

Tools

ERP systems

Minitab

Microsoft Office

Statistical software

Job description

IFAB Corp. in Gastonia, NC seeks an APQP Engineer to lead Advanced Product Quality Planning from quote award through production launch.

You will work with Engineering, Tooling, Production, Quality, and Customers to plan, validate, and launch new and changed parts across stamping, laser cutting, tube bending, forming, welding, and finishing. The ideal candidate has 3+ years APQP/PPAP, AIAG Core Tools/IATF 16949 knowledge, and strong CAD/GD&T literacy.