Sr. APQP Engineer

Hutchinson•Grand Rapids, MI

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Sr. APQP Engineer will lead and manage the Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) process from concept through production launch and post-launch activities. This role ensures all APQP deliverables are completed on time, including PFMEA, Control Plans, Process Flow Diagrams, and Measurement System Analysis (MSA). The engineer will coordinate cross-functional teams, drive issue resolution, oversee PPAP submissions, and serve as the primary customer interface for APQP and launch readiness. The position also involves working with suppliers to align APQP activities and ensuring manufacturing readiness. Key responsibilities include establishing performance metrics, reporting status to leadership, and driving continuous improvement of APQP processes.

Requirements

Strong knowledge of IATF 16949 / ISO 9001 standards
APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans
Lean / Six Sigma methodologies
Statistical analysis and quality data reporting
Blueprint and engineering drawing interpretation
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and quality management systems
Experience with inspection tools (CMM, calipers, micrometers, gauges)
Bachelor’s degree in engineering (Manufacturing, Mechanical, Industrial) or a related field, or equivalent experience.
7–10 years of experience in manufacturing quality or engineering.
Extensive hands-on experience with APQP and PPAP in automotive or regulated manufacturing environments.
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
Experience with ERP systems and knowledge of Infor ERP (MAPICS) preferred.

Nice To Haves

ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt
IATF 16949 / ISO 9001 Lead Auditor

Responsibilities

Lead and manage the APQP process from concept through production launch and post-launch activities.
Ensure all APQP deliverables are completed on time, including PFMEA, Control Plans, Process Flow Diagrams, and Measurement System Analysis (MSA).
Coordinate and facilitate cross-functional APQP team meetings involving Quality, Engineering, Manufacturing, Purchasing, and Suppliers.
Drive issue resolution, risk mitigation, and escalation during new product introductions and engineering changes.
Oversee and approve PPAP submissions to customers and ensure compliance with customer-specific requirements.
Serve as the primary interface with customers on APQP, PPAP, and launch readiness topics.
Ensure customer milestones and timelines are met without compromising quality or compliance.
Ensure robust risk identification and prevention using FMEA methodologies.
Verify effective control plans and process capability prior to launch.
Ensure lessons learned are captured and incorporated into future programs.
Work closely with Supplier Quality to align supplier APQP activities with internal timelines and requirements.
Support supplier APQP reviews, development activities, and launch readiness assessments.
Partner with manufacturing teams to ensure equipment, tooling, and processes are validated prior to production.
Establish and monitor APQP performance metrics, including launch quality, timing, and defect prevention.
Report APQP and launch status to leadership and initiate corrective actions when targets are not met.
Drive continuous improvement of APQP processes, tools, and standard practices.