Quality Engineer: APQP & New Product Launch Lead

USA Rare Earth, Inc. (Nasdaq: USAR); Stillwater (OK); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

USA Rare Earth, Inc. is seeking a Quality Engineer to support daily Quality System operations and ensure product and process readiness for new launches.

The role emphasizes Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) and cross-functional collaboration across engineering, manufacturing, purchasing, and supplier teams. The ideal candidate has 5–10 years of hands-on quality experience in manufacturing, with certifications such as CIA, ISO 9001, AS 9100, or IATF 16949, and strong skills in PFMEAs,

Qualifications

• Minimum 5–10 years of hands-on quality experience in manufacturing.
• Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), ISO 9001, AS 9100, or IATF 16949 certification.
• Understanding of PFMEAs and control plans.
• Ability to lead and train others on the team.
• Capable of leading or supporting the corrective action process.
• Basic computer skills, including ERP systems, Excel, and data entry.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities.
• Preferred: experience with 5S and continuous improvement practices.

Responsibilities

• Lead APQP for new and revised products, from VOC to production launch and ensure specifications.
• Facilitate cross-functional APQP teams to drive milestones and resolve risks.
• Manage PPAP submissions, including flow diagrams, FMEA, control plans, and gate reviews.
• Lead or support the corrective action process and support inspections.

Skills

Quality engineering

APQP

Lead training

Corrective action

Data analysis

Tools

ERP systems

Excel

Job description

USA Rare Earth, Inc. is seeking a Quality Engineer to support daily Quality System operations and ensure product and process readiness for new launches.

The role emphasizes Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) and cross-functional collaboration across engineering, manufacturing, purchasing, and supplier teams. The ideal candidate has 5–10 years of hands-on quality experience in manufacturing, with certifications such as CIA, ISO 9001, AS 9100, or IATF 16949, and strong skills in PFMEAs,