Sr. Quality Engineer (APQP)

Kearfott Corporation•Pine Brook, NJ

2d•$109,000 - $128,000

About The Position

The Sr. Quality Engineer (APQP) leads the deployment, execution, and continuous improvement of AS9145 Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) and Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) activities across aerospace and defense programs. The role serves as a technical authority and facilitator for APQP methodologies, supporting robust product realization, risk mitigation, and compliance with customer, regulatory, and industry requirements. The position works cross-functionally with Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Program Management, and customers to support successful product launches and lifecycle quality performance. It also provides guidance and coaching on APQP practices and aerospace quality standards, supports audits and First Article Inspection activities, and drives continuous improvement.

Requirements

Minimum 4 years of hands-on APQP experience using AS9145 within the aerospace and defense industry is highly desired; automotive APQP/PPAP experience combined with AS9100 experience may be considered.
Strong working knowledge of AS9145, AS9100, AS9102, and related aerospace quality standards is strongly preferred.
Demonstrated experience leading cross-functional APQP teams in a regulated manufacturing environment.
Proficiency in DFMEA, PFMEA, Control Plans, MSA, SPC, and PPAP documentation.
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality, or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution.
Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills, with high attention to detail.
Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills, and ability to communicate effectively with internal teams, customers, and auditors.
Experience working in AS9100-certified manufacturing environments is highly desired.
Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and data-driven quality reporting.
Ability to work independently while providing technical leadership in a team-oriented environment.
Must be a U.S. citizen and able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Security Clearance.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree.
Automotive APQP/PPAP experience, particularly when combined with AS9100 experience.
Strong working knowledge of AS9145, AS9100, AS9102, and related aerospace quality standards.
Experience working in AS9100-certified manufacturing environments.

Responsibilities

Lead and execute AS9145 APQP and PPAP activities for new product introductions, design changes, and major process changes in aerospace and defense programs.
Serve as the subject matter expert for AS9145, advising on standard interpretation, application, and compliance.
Develop and maintain APQP plans, program roadmaps, and deliverables, including risk assessments, process flow diagrams, PFMEA/DFMEA, control plans, and PPAP documentation.
Facilitate the identification, documentation, and management of Key Characteristics and Critical-to-Quality requirements, ensuring appropriate controls and verification methods.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support design for manufacturability, producibility, and quality throughout product development.
Support First Article Inspection activities in accordance with AS9102 and ensure alignment with APQP outputs.
Lead root cause analysis and corrective action activities related to APQP gaps, production escapes, and customer issues.
Mentor and coach quality and cross-functional team members on APQP principles, tools, and aerospace best practices.
Support internal and external audits related to AS9145, AS9100, and customer-specific requirements.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives to reduce risk, improve launch readiness, and enhance product and process robustness.