Advanced Product Quality Lead -- PPAP & APQP Programs

Job Description

Job Description

Impact

Be the program owner who secures flawless launches by leading APQP strategy and PPAP approvals from definition through ramp-up. You are the accountable quality voice to the customer.

What you will do

• Own APQP for assigned NPI, transfers, and significant changes with full timing plans and gate reviews aligned to AIAG APQP.
• Set PPAP level, content, and calendar; compile and submit complete packages; close any rejections/findings to approval.
• Serve as primary customer interface for APQP/PPAP, validation evidence, and launch quality reviews/audits.
• Lead cross-functional execution across Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Quality; coordinate trials, pilot builds, and process validation.
• Drive risk management—create and update DFMEA/PFMEA, implement risk reduction, validate controls with trials and data.
• Maintain alignment of PFMEA, Control Plan, and work instructions; verify capability (Cp/Cpk) and MSA robustness.
• Track launch metrics: scrap, rework, capability, customer feedback; initiate corrective and preventive actions.
• Embed lessons learned and continuous improvement into subsequent programs.

Technical scope

• PPAP package elements: DFMEA, PFMEA, Process Flow Diagrams, Control Plans, MSA and capability studies (Cp/Cpk), dimensional/material/performance results.
• APQP phases: Planning & Definition; Product Design & Development; Process Design & Development; Product & Process Validation; Launch/Feedback/Continuous Improvement.
• Compliance: customer-specific requirements; IATF 16949, ISO 14001, ISO 50001 (as applicable).

Collaboration and authority

Interfaces with Customers, Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, and Quality. Owns APQP/PPAP execution, is the primary customer-facing authority for launch quality, and can approve or block progression based on readiness.

What you bring

• Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) mastery
• PPAP process leadership
• PFMEA facilitation and authorship
• Data analysis and manipulation; MSA; Cp/Cpk
• 5 Why and root cause analysis
• Quality control, SOPs, and disciplined execution
• Kaizen/continuous improvement mindset

How success is measured

• On-time APQP gates and PPAP approvals
• Closed risks prior to launch; effective controls verified by data
• Stable ramp-up with low scrap/rework and capable processes
• Positive customer feedback and audit outcomes

This profile is not exhaustive; your scope may expand with evolving business priorities.