Launch Engineer

Plasman • Greer, SC

1d

About The Position

Plasman is currently seeking a new member to join our ENGINEERING team as a: Launch Engineer. This role is responsible for leading and executing end-to-end program launches and engineering change processes in alignment with IATF 16949 and BMW Customer-Specific Requirements (CSR). This role ensures that all product, process, and system changes (4M) are properly evaluated, approved, validated, and implemented without risk to quality, delivery, or customer compliance, while supporting APQP, Safe Launch (GP12), and series production readiness.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, Manufacturing, or related)
• 3–7+ years in Automotive manufacturing (Tier 1 preferred)
• 3–7+ years in Launch / APQP / program management
• 3–7+ years in Engineering change management
• Strong knowledge of IATF 16949 / APQP / PPAP
• Strong knowledge of DFMEA / PFMEA / Control Plans
• Experience with SAP / MES systems
• Experience with BOM / routing changes
• Experience with Change management tools (PLM, ECN systems)

Nice To Haves

• BMW CSR and GS standards (highly preferred)

Responsibilities

• Lead plant-level execution of APQP deliverables across all phases (quote → SOP → ramp-up)
• Drive cross-functional readiness (Engineering, Quality, Operations, Materials, IT)
• Track program milestones and ensure all deliverables meet timing and quality targets
• Support equipment readiness, manufacturing strategy, and production ramp-up activities
• Serve as Change Owner for all engineering and manufacturing changes
• Manage full lifecycle of changes: Identification and classification (product, process, 4M, supplier, SAP/MES), Risk assessment (quality, safety, delivery, cost), Cross-functional review and approval
• Ensure formal approval prior to implementation (no retroactive changes)
• Evaluate every change against BMW GS standards and CSR requirements
• Determine need for: Customer notification, PPAP / PPA submission, PCS/IPQ triggers
• Ensure compliance with: GS 90018 (requalification), GS 91008 (maturity), GS 98001 (readiness)
• Ensure proper handling of PSCR-related changes and safety-critical features
• Verify updates to: DFMEA / PFMEA, Control Plans
• Ensure safety approvals are completed before release
• Lead structured risk analysis for all changes: Quality, Delivery, Compliance, Cost impact
• Define and execute: Trial runs / pilot builds, Capability studies (Cp/Cpk, Cm/Cmk), Measurement validation (MSA)
• Ensure all documentation is updated before change release, including: Work Instructions, Control Plans, Process flows and layouts, Inspection plans, SAP / MES master data
• Maintain strict version control and traceability
• Support and enforce BMW Safe Launch (GP12) containment strategy
• Ensure: Standardized inspection processes, Defect tracking and escalation, Operator training effectiveness
• Drive achievement of zero-defect containment and process stability
• Lead change and launch reviews with: Quality, Engineering, Production, Logistics, IT / SAP / MES
• Act as key interface to: Program Management, Customer (BMW) when required
• Support 8D / root cause investigations tied to launches or changes
• Drive lessons learned into future programs (APQP feedback loop)
• Identify systemic gaps in change control and implement corrective actions

Benefits

• Plasman values and supports the unique talents and strengths that each employee brings to our organization. We invest in our people and give them the tools they need to achieve success in their career.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level