Quality Engineer - (Liverpool, NY)

Position Responsibilities:

• Lead the implementation of APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) methodology across new product introduction and existing product lines, bringing structure the team does not currently have.
• Develop and maintain PPAP packages, Control Plans, and Process/Design FMEAs for new and changing products.
• Assist in establishing, implementing, and maintaining the quality management system.
• Monitor, compile, and drive action from First Pass Yield, Quality Nonconformance, and RMA data with cross-functional teams to improve product and process performance.
• Support product development and introduction to production through design release and change approvals, FMEA design and analysis, and quality assurance planning.
• Interface with Engineering, Operations, and Supply Chain to ensure products conform to approved specifications.
• Identify measurement and metrology technologies and strategies; evaluate and recommend new technologies for measurement, inspection, and test.
• Conduct internal and external audits, including closing out findings, creating audit reports, and determining corrective actions.
• Compile statistical data and lead capability studies (Cpk/Ppk) and Gage R&R / MSA studies on new and existing equipment; report findings and recommendations.
• Train and mentor quality technicians and cross-functional partners on APQP, PPAP, FMEA, and structured problem-solving methods.
• Apply Lean principles to guide improvements, including process mapping and flow diagrams.
• Interpret technical documentation and testing specifications; produce clear technical writing and reporting.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related field preferred.
• 5+ years of experience as a Quality Engineer, ideally within automotive or aerospace manufacturing, with hands-on ownership of APQP and PPAP processes.
• Deep, practical experience with APQP, PPAP, Design/Process FMEA, and Control Plans - able to stand these up in an environment where they don't yet exist.
• IATF 16949 familiarity preferred but not required for certification purposes, but valuable as a signal quality system discipline.
• Advanced knowledge of statistics: SPC, probability, Cpk/Ppk, Gage R&R/MSA.
• Advanced root cause analysis and structured problem-solving skills (8D, 5-Why, fishbone); Six Sigma certification a plus.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and analytical skills to lead and work with operational teams and internal/external stakeholders.
• Superior project management, organizational, and time management skills; self-motivated with a positive, professional attitude.
• Lean understanding as a guide for implementing improvements, with demonstrated ability to create flow diagrams and process maps.
• Strong technical reading, interpretation, and writing skills for specifications and quality documentation.