Principal APQP Specialist

International Automotive Components•Southfield, MI

About The Position

The APQP Manager is responsible for leading and managing all Advanced Product Quality Planning activities to ensure successful product launches that meet customer, regulatory, and internal quality requirements. This role drives cross-functional collaboration from program kickoff through production launch, ensuring robust planning, risk mitigation, and on-time delivery of quality products.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, or related field or
7–10+ years of experience in Quality or APQP roles within automotive or manufacturing
3+ years of leadership or project management experience
Expert knowledge of APQP, PPAP, and AIAG Core Tools
Strong understanding of IATF 16949 and customer-specific requirements
Experience with product launches, change management, and risk reduction
Proficiency with quality problem-solving methodologies (8D, 5-Why, Ishikawa)
Strong project management and organizational skills
Ability to lead cross-functional teams without direct authority
Excellent communication and customer-facing skills
Data-driven, detail-oriented, and results-focused

Nice To Haves

IATF 16949 Internal or Lead Auditor
AIAG Core Tools certification
Six Sigma Green or Black Belt

Responsibilities

Lead the APQP process in accordance with AIAG / VDA standards
Ensure timely completion of all APQP deliverables (e.g., DFMEA, PFMEA, Control Plans, MSA, SPC, PPAP)
Manage quality activities throughout the product lifecycle from concept through launch and production handoff
Act as the quality lead for new product introduction (NPI) and launch readiness
Partner with Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Program Management, and Customers to ensure quality objectives are met
Facilitate APQP core team meetings and gate reviews
Serve as the primary quality interface for customer APQP and launch-related requirements
Lead risk identification and mitigation using DFMEA, PFMEA, and process risk assessments
Drive robust root cause analysis and corrective actions for launch-related issues
Ensure lessons learned are captured and applied to future programs
Oversee preparation, review, and submission of PPAP packages
Ensure compliance with customer-specific requirements (CSRs)
Support customer audits, launch reviews, and run-at-rate events
Develop and monitor APQP and launch quality KPIs
Identify opportunities to improve APQP workflows, tools, and standards
Promote continuous improvement and standardization across programs
Lead, mentor, and develop APQP Engineers and Quality team members
Ensure training and competency in APQP, Core Tools, and customer requirements
Foster a proactive, prevention-focused quality culture