APQP Engineer

RHINESTAHL CORPORATION•Mason, OH

About The Position

RH Aero Systems is hiring an APQP Engineer to lead quality planning and risk management for new product introductions, product transfers, process changes, and strategic growth initiatives. The role uses APQP, PPAP, PFMEA, FAI, and process validation to build quality into product realization and ensure product and process readiness, customer and regulatory compliance, and successful launches. The engineer collaborates with Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, Program Management, customers, and suppliers, and serves as the quality lead for assigned NPI programs.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Quality Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
At least 5 years of Quality Engineering experience in aerospace, manufacturing, defense, or another regulated industry.
Hands-on experience with APQP, PPAP, PFMEA, Control Plans, SPC, MSA, and process validation.
Experience supporting new product introduction programs and production launch activities.
Experience partnering directly with customers, suppliers, and cross-functional teams.
Strong understanding of APQP methodologies and product realization processes.
Working knowledge of PPAP, AS9102 First Article Inspection requirements, and production readiness activities.
Understanding of PFMEA, risk assessment methodologies, and defect-prevention techniques.
Knowledge of statistical process control, process capability analysis, and measurement systems analysis.
Problem-solving skills using Root Cause Analysis, 8D, and corrective action methodologies.
Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and customer requirements.
Strong project management, organizational, and communication skills.
Ability to manage multiple programs and shifting priorities.
Ability to influence and align cross-functional teams without direct authority.
Strong analytical skills and a data-driven approach to decision-making.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and quality management tools.
U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency, as required for this role.

Nice To Haves

ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) credential.
Six Sigma Green Belt or equivalent certification.
Experience working within an AS9100-certified organization.
Experience in the aerospace industry.
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification.
AS9100 Internal Auditor certification.
Experience leading customer PPAP submissions and launch readiness reviews.
Experience supporting high-mix, low-volume aerospace manufacturing environments.

Responsibilities

Lead APQP activities for new product introductions, customer transfers, and major manufacturing process changes.
Develop and maintain quality deliverables aligned with APQP milestones and program gate reviews.
Facilitate cross-functional risk assessments, including Design FMEA and Process FMEA activities.
Integrate quality requirements into product and process development activities.
Develop and maintain Control Plans, Inspection Plans, Process Flow Diagrams, and supporting quality documentation.
Lead First Article Inspection (FAI) activities in accordance with AS9102 requirements.
Coordinate and submit PPAP packages to customers and ensure timely approval of production readiness requirements.
Support manufacturing process development and validation through capability studies, measurement system analysis (MSA), and process validation activities.
Review engineering changes and evaluate quality risks associated with design and manufacturing changes.
Participate in design reviews and manufacturing readiness reviews.
Coordinate customer quality requirements throughout program execution and serve as the primary quality contact during product launches.
Support supplier qualification and readiness activities with Supplier Quality and Supply Chain teams.
Monitor launch performance metrics and drive corrective actions to address risks and issues.
Perform root cause analysis and support corrective and preventive actions related to NPI and launch concerns.
Support compliance with the AS9100 Quality Management System and customer-specific quality requirements.
Provide guidance on quality best practices, regulatory requirements, and risk mitigation strategies.
Support customer, regulatory, and third-party audits as needed.
Develop and report program quality metrics to management.
Drive continuous improvement focused on defect prevention, process capability, and operational excellence.
Take on other responsibilities as assigned.