Lead Quality Engineer: APQP, PPAP & Launch Excellence

RecruitPod Global LLC; Kendallville (IN); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

RecruitPod Global LLC in the United States is seeking an Advanced Quality Engineer to lead APQP, PPAP submissions, and process validation through initial production. You will own quality planning, coordinate cross-functional teams, and ensure launch readiness and regulatory compliance.

The role requires 3–5+ years in automotive/manufacturing quality engineering, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to travel up to 20%. CAD experience and proficiency in GD&T are a plus.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.
• 3–5+ years of experience in automotive or manufacturing quality engineering.
• Strong knowledge of APQP, PPAP, SPC, MSA, PFMEA, Control Plans, and capability analysis.
• Experience supporting new program launches through SOP.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and GD&T.
• Familiarity with IMDS submission requirements.
• Strong project coordination, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; CAD experience (SolidWorks) a plus.
• Ability to travel up to 20% to support launches, customers, or suppliers.

Responsibilities

• Develop, manage, and maintain APQP documentation for new programs and engineering changes.
• Lead quality planning activities to ensure successful program launch and SOP readiness.
• Serve as the primary customer quality contact during program launch and early production.
• Ensure plant processes and controls meet all customer-specific and internal quality requirements.
• Track launch metrics including scrap, defects, and quality issues and implement improvement actions.
• Prepare, submit, and maintain PPAP documentation in accordance with customer requirements.
• Perform and analyze process capability studies (Cpk/Ppk) and measurement system studies (Gage R&R).
• Coordinate and review part testing per customer specifications; interpret and communicate results.
• Enter and maintain material and part information in IMDS and submit to customers.
• Develop and maintain quality standards, Control Plans, PFMEAs, and work instructions for each new program.
• Support development of manufacturing processes and equipment to meet quality, cost, and delivery targets.
• Work cross-functionally with Engineering, Operations, and Suppliers on process and equipment development.
• Obtain and evaluate quotes for manufacturing equipment, packaging, and customer testing as required.
• Review and interpret engineering drawings and GD&T; support part and process design validation.

Skills

APQP

PPAP

Analytical skills

Project coordination

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

MS Office

IMDS

Job description

RecruitPod Global LLC in the United States is seeking an Advanced Quality Engineer to lead APQP, PPAP submissions, and process validation through initial production. You will own quality planning, coordinate cross-functional teams, and ensure launch readiness and regulatory compliance.

The role requires 3–5+ years in automotive/manufacturing quality engineering, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to travel up to 20%. CAD experience and proficiency in GD&T are a plus.