Quality Engineer (PPAP / SQE)

About us

LAEPPLE 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.