Quality Engineer - Tier 1 Supplier

Quality Engineer | Tier 1 Automotive Supplier | Howell, MI

Fast-Track to Quality Manager

$100,000

The Opportunity

I'm partnering with a leading Tier 1 automotive supplier to fill a critical Quality Engineer position at their Howell, Michigan facility. This role offers a clear path to Quality Manager and the chance to work with a global leader.

What makes this role different:

• Direct advancement opportunity to Quality Manager role
• Work with major OEM programs (GM, Ford, Stellantis)
• High-visibility position supporting the entire program management team
• Competitive compensation: $100K
• Immediate impact on product launches and customer relationships

Why This Role Matters

This isn't just another quality position. You'll be the technical quality leader supporting program management across the supply chain from raw materials to final assembly. Your expertise will directly influence product launches, customer satisfaction, and plant performance.

The challenge: My client needs someone who can hit the ground running with APQP, PPAP, and FMEA expertise while building relationships across engineering, manufacturing, and customer quality teams.

What You'll Do

Core Responsibilities:

• Lead APQP Core Tools implementation across project teams from concept through launch
• Drive feasibility studies and risk assessments throughout the supply chain
• Develop and execute Process FMEAs with cross-functional teams
• Create comprehensive Control Plans covering the entire value chain
• Support Run-at-Rate activities and ensure quality readiness for production launches
• Conduct MSA and Process Capability Studies per Production Control Plan requirements
• Manage PPAP submissions and customer approval processes
• Capture and implement Lessons Learned for continuous improvement

Strategic Impact:

• Ensure Release Gate deliverables meet quality maturity standards
• Proactively identify risks and implement Special Control Strategies
• Bridge communication between plants, suppliers, and customers
• Drive quality performance metrics and process improvements

What You Bring

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering or related technical field
• 5-6 years of automotive quality engineering experience (Tier 1/2 supplier or OEM)
• Hands-on expertise with APQP, PPAP, FMEA, MSA, and Control Plans
• Strong knowledge of customer-specific requirements (GM, Ford, Stellantis)
• SAP and advanced MS Office proficiency
• Excellent communication and presentation skills

Ideal Background:

• Experience with Tier 1 supplier environment
• Track record of successful product launches and PPAP approvals
• Workshop facilitation and cross-functional leadership experience
• Proactive problem-solver with strong relationship-building abilities
• Customer-facing quality experience with major OEMs

Location & Commute

Howell, Michigan

Compensation & Growth

• Starting Salary: $100K (top of range for experienced candidates)
• Growth Potential: As Quality Manager
• Career Path: Quality Engineer Quality Manager (clear advancement timeline)

Why Act Now

This is a critical, fast-moving search . My client's customer requires this position filled immediately, and they're prepared to move quickly for the right candidate. With ongoing industry changes and recent activity at major suppliers, now is the ideal time for experienced quality professionals to secure a stable, growth-oriented role with a global Tier 1 leader.