Project Engineer
On-siteGastonia, North Carolina, United States
Job Summary
Lead end-to-end APQP activities for new product launches involving stamped, formed, welded, machined, and coated components, owning program timelines, milestones, and risk tracking to ensure launch readiness. Develop core APQP documentation including PFMEA, Process Flow Diagrams, and Control Plans while managing the full PPAP submission process to secure customer approvals. Serve as the primary customer interface, coordinating with tooling vendors and suppliers to drive manufacturability reviews and support production ramp-up through process troubleshooting and variation reduction. Monitor early production performance metrics and implement corrective actions to ensure compliance with ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 standards. Spend significant time on the production floor collaborating with operations teams to optimize processes and maintain accurate ERP/MRP system data.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Industrial, Mechanical, or Manufacturing Engineering, Business, or equivalent hands-on manufacturing experience
- 3+ years of experience in automotive, aerospace, or industrial manufacturing environments
- Working knowledge of APQP, PPAP, and quality systems within ISO 9001 and/or IATF 16949 frameworks
- Ability to interpret technical drawings, GD&T, specifications, BOMs, and routings
- Experience with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., Sage, SAP, or similar)
- Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple programs simultaneously in a fast-paced environment
- Proven ownership of product launches for OEM or Tier 1 customers and new customers
- Experience in metal fabrication processes such as stamping, welding, CNC machining, and coating systems
- Strong problem-solving skills with a data-driven approach
- Effective communication skills across shop floor, suppliers, and customers
Desired Qualifications
- Bilingual (English/Spanish)
- Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma certification
- Project Management certification (PMP or equivalent)
- Experience with tooling development and capital equipment launches
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