New Model Quality Manager

KASAI NORTH AMERICA; Murfreesboro (TN); On-site; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

KASAI NORTH AMERICA is seeking a New Model Quality Manager to supervise engineers and staff, ensuring conformity to strict quality standards during new model launches. You will lead PPAP/PSW processes, coordinate with suppliers, and drive quality improvements across programs.

The role requires a 6-year background in automotive quality engineering, strong leadership, and cross-functional collaboration, with the ability to travel as needed and manage complex projects in a manufacturing setting.

Qualifications

• 6 years in Automotive Quality Engineering with focus on new product launches.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Quality Management.
• Experience leading cross-functional teams and programs.
• Proven ability to implement and manage PPAP/PSW processes.
• Strong problem-solving and data-driven decision making.
• Knowledge of APQP and Six Sigma certifications is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develops and implements new model quality programs/ projects ensuring conformity to standards.
• Lead QA activities for new model launches.
• Coordinate PPAP documentation and PSW submissions.
• Facilitate meetings with suppliers and QA managers to resolve quality issues.
• Manage risks and monitor program progress with KPIs and status reports.
• Provide leadership to engineers and staff and supervise performance.

Skills

Project management

Cross-functional leadership

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Quality management

Microsoft Office

APQP

Six Sigma

Blueprint interpretation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Quality Management

Tools

Quality management software

Data analysis tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

REPORTS TO:

Quality General Manager

DESCRIPTION:

Reporting to the Quality General Management, the New Model Quality Manager is responsible for the supervision and direction of the Engineers and staff as assigned within the Organization chart for the area within their control. In the absence of the Quality General Management, the New Model Quality Manager will assume duties for their areas and communicate concerns to the assigned or acting General Manager or above.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develops and implements new model quality programs/ projects which insures conformity of purchased material and final products to strict quality standards; while maintaining business volumes to our customer.
• Lead and manage the quality assurance activities for new model launches, ensuring alignment with company quality standards and objectives.
• Outline and ensure completion of PPAP documentation to meet the timing and goals of program launch activities.
• Facilitates and conducts meetings with Supplier and/or Quality Assurance Managers at divisional locations to discuss and support quality problems resolution, PRODUCTION PREPARATION APPROVAL PROCESS (PPAP)/PART SUBMISSION WARRANT (PSW) transition.
• Coordinates and works closely with Project Managers in support of 4M Change and launch of new products
• Supervises and directs the work of Engineers or staff assigned within his area of control. Conducts and reviews job performance evaluation, and disciplinary actions, if needed. Approves expense reports and vacations.
• Identify and manage potential risks and issues that could impact program success, implementing mitigation strategies as needed.
• Monitor account program progress, track key performance indicators, and prepare regular status reports for senior management.
• Foster a collaborative work environment, encouraging teamwork and synergy among the team.
• Continuously evaluate program launch effectiveness and identify opportunities for process enhancements and optimization.
• Provide leadership and guidance to the team, motivating them to excel and contribute to the overall success of new model launches.
• Interact with External Customers, Suppliers, Design, and Internal Customers as required to promote overall conformity to processes, procedures, quality, and direction indicated for Quality by management.
• Maintain general housekeeping and safe work practices.
• Establish systems and/ or conduct regular audits as needed to maintain the quality of new model launches to ensure integrity and compliance.
• Support the management and maintenance of production and customer target requirements.
• Support the implementation, achievement, and maintenance of the Quality and Environmental Policies and Procedures
• Authorities for an employee are granted by means of work instructions, policies and procedures, and/or direction provided by management to meet the requirements of the customer
• Complete Technical Quality Engineer training matrix and execution (AIAG core tools primarily, but could include others)

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Quality Management, or a related field is required.

EXPERIENCE:

• 6 years experience in the Automotive Quality Engineering field, quality management, and program management, with a focus on new product launches.

SKILLS:

• Strong project management and program management skills, including the ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex projects.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across different departments and levels of the organization.
• Proficiency in quality management software, data analysis tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Relevant certifications (e.g., Six Sigma, APQP) are a plus.
• Strong interpersonal and supervisory skills.
• Good organizational skills.
• Capable of overall professionalism in a business environment

TRAINING SPECIFIC to POSITION:

• Computer literate.
• Ability to interpret blueprints, drawings, schematics, etc.
• Completed Lead Auditor Training, and VW Supplier Audit Training

OTHER:

• Ability to travel for extended periods of time with limited prior notice
• Must be able to work any assigned shift

Work Environment:

This job operates in an office/home office and manufacturing environment and routinely uses standard office equipment. The noise level in the work environment and job sites can be loud.

Physical Demands:

The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands to handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, or crouch. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. The employee may also be required to work in hot temperatures.

This job description should not be construed to imply that these requirements are exclusive standards of the position Incumbents will follow any other instruction, and perform any other related duties, as may be required by their supervisor