AP/QP Engineer

An APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) Engineer in Aerospace—operating under the AS9145 standard—is responsible for managing the quality planning of new products and processes from concept through production, ensuring "right-first-time" delivery.

This role ensures that supplier or internal manufacturing processes are designed, validated, and capable of meeting strict aerospace quality and safety standards, preventing defects before they occur.

Key Responsibilities & Job Duties

• APQP/PPAP Leadership: Drive all 5 phases of APQP (Planning, Product Design, Process Design, Validation, Production) and manage the Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) deliverables.
• Risk Management: Lead Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (DFMEA/PFMEA) to identify and mitigate risks in product and process design.
• Supplier Quality Assurance: Evaluate, audit, and coach suppliers on AS9145/APQP requirements to ensure compliance and technical maturity.
• Process Validation: Validate manufacturing processes using Statistical Process Control (SPC), Capability Studies (Cp/Cpk), and Measurement Systems Analysis (MSA).
• Cross-Functional Coordination: Collaborate with engineering, procurement, and manufacturing to ensure concurrent engineering (alignment of product and process design).
• Root Cause Analysis: Utilize structured problem-solving tools (e.g., 8D, Fishbone) to resolve quality non-conformances.
• Project Documentation: Ensure timely submission and approval of PSW (Part Submission Warrant), Control Plans, and process flow diagrams.

Key Deliverables & Outcomes

• Achieving PPAP approval and PSW for new parts/processes.
• Reduction of quality escapes, scrap, and rework.
• Successful Initial Article Inspection (FAI) completion.
• Improved On-Time Delivery (OTD) and reduced PPM (parts per million).

Required Qualifications

• Experience: Proven experience in APQP, PPAP, and AS9145 within the Aerospace or Defense industry.
• Technical Knowledge: Proficiency in core tools (FMEA, SPC, MSA, Control Plans).
• Standards: Strong knowledge of AS9100, AS9145, and AS9102 (FAI).
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality, or a related technical field.

Ideal Competencies

• Analytical Solver: Ability to interpret data and identify systemic risks.
• Communication: Excellent stakeholder management, capable of influencing suppliers and internal teams.
• Proactive Mindset: Focus on risk mitigation and prevention rather than detection.