Responsibilities
About usLAEPPLE Automotive is a leading supplier in the automotive industry, specializing in high-quality components and systems for body components manufacturing. Our innovative technologies and efficient production processes set benchmarks in the industry. To grow our team in Detroit, we are seeking a dedicated and experienced Quality Engineer to lead our PPAP submissions and Supplier Quality verifications/audits. This role is responsible for supporting APQP activities and collaborating cross-functionally to ensure robust product and process quality. This role is critical in preventing defects, driving continuous improvement, and ensuring compliance with industry standards.
Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare, review, and submit PPAP documentation in accordance with customer-specific requirements and AIAG guidelines.
- Lead PPAP activities internally and with suppliers, ensuring timely approvals.
- Coordinate APQP tasks and deliverables.
- Ensure all PPAP elements (i.e. PSI, DFMEA, PFMEA, Control Plans, MSA, capability studies) are complete and accurate.
- Ensure products and processes meet customer specifications, drawings, and regulatory requirements.
- Monitor supplier performance using key quality metrics (PPM, defect rates, on-time delivery).
- Conduct regular supplier audits (process, system, and product audits).
- Develop and maintain strong customer and supplier relationships.
- Maintain compliance with quality standards.
- Review engineering changes and assess impact on PPAP submissions.
- Work closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Supplier Quality teams.
- Function as the primary contact for suppliers and customers regarding PPAP submissions and quality documentation.
- Support launch readiness and production ramp-up activities.
- Review and approve supplier PPAPs.
- Provide guidance to suppliers on PPAP requirements and expectations.
- Support supplier audits and corrective actions when necessary.
- Analyze quality data and identify trends or risks.
- Lead root cause analysis (8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone) for quality issues.
- Drive corrective and preventive actions.
- Support process improvements to enhance product quality and reduce variation.
- Maintain compliance with all safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
- Other duties and tasks as assigned.
Education and Experience:
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing or related field.
- Minimum of five (5) years of experience in Quality Engineering within a manufacturing environment (automotive Class A Tier I supplier strongly preferred).
- Hands on experience with PPAP, APQP, and core quality tools.
- Experience with ERP systems (SAP preferred) and Microsoft Office programs.
Knowledge, Skills And Abilities
- Strong Knowledge of PPAP requirements (AIAG standards), Core Tools (FMEA, Control Plans, MSA, SPC), and GD&T.
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings and specifications.
- ISO9001, IATF16949, and/or VDA knowledge/experience.
- Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or higher) strongly preferred.
- Experience with customer-specific requirements.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Attention to detail and accuracy.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
- Customer-focused mindset.
- Advanced working knowledge of Class A automotive body panel standards and surface quality requirements.
- Team orientation.
- Self-motivated with a results-driven approach.
- High level of integrity and ethical standards.
- Willingness and ability to travel as business needs require.
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