Principal APQP Specialist

Position Summary

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.

Key Responsibilities

APQP & Program Management

• 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
  
  

Cross-Functional Leadership

• 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
  
  

Risk Management & Problem Solving

• 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
  
  

PPAP & Customer Requirements

• 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
  
  

Metrics & Continuous Improvement

• Develop and monitor APQP and launch quality KPIs
• Identify opportunities to improve APQP workflows, tools, and standards
• Promote continuous improvement and standardization across programs
  
  

Team Leadership & Development

• 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
  
  

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• 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
  
  

Technical Skills

• 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)
  
  

Leadership & Professional Skills

• 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
  
  

Certifications (Preferred)

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

Reporting Structure

• Reports to Launch Senior Quality Manager
• Works closely with Program Management, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Customers
• Up to 75% travel to customer sites, suppliers, and manufacturing locations
  
  

Travel