IATF 16949 Quality Systems & PPAP Engineer

Join a Team Driving What’s Next

At GKN Automotive, our driveline technologies power vehicles across the globe. Our culture blends innovation with execution—collaboration, data-driven decisions, and operational excellence are how we deliver for 90%+ of the world’s car makers.

Your Mission

Elevate manufacturing quality performance by leading cross-functional problem solving, tightening process controls, and ensuring flawless compliance and submission packages.

What You’ll Own

• Problem resolution: Lead teams on internal and customer issues; uncover root cause and implement verified corrective actions using 8D, A3, Ishikawa, 5-Why, and QRQC.
• Defect reduction: Drive SCRAP and NRFT (Not Right First Time) reduction through data analysis, process optimization, and layered process audits.
• Change governance: Evaluate Process Change Requests; author and manage Product and Process Deviations to meet GKN and customer standards.
• APQP deliverables: Prepare and submit complete PPAP and PTR packages; support design reviews with risk-based insights.
• Prevention first: Facilitate PFMEA updates and translate controls into robust Control Plans and shop-floor standards.
• Measurement discipline: Apply GD&T and verify features with calipers, micrometers, and Go/No-Go gages; use Minitab for SPC and capability studies and SAP for traceability.

How You’ll Do It

• Communicate clearly and persuasively with customers and internal stakeholders.
• Make confident decisions under pressure while juggling multiple priorities.
• Model continuous improvement by turning insights into standard work.

Required Background

• 3–5 years in a manufacturing or automotive quality engineering role.
• Working mastery of ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 requirements.
• Experience with GD&T, PFMEA, Control Plans, and all 18 PPAP elements.
• Hands-on metrology with common gages and instruments.
• Proficiency with Minitab and SAP; expert in structured problem-solving toolsets.

Preferred Extras

• BS in Engineering or related technical field.
• Automotive industry exposure.
• Fluency in English; Spanish and/or German beneficial.
• Shainin Apprentice or Six Sigma certification.

Travel

Plan for 2–3 short trips per year.

Why GKN Automotive

This is a hands-on, empowered role where your decisions improve product quality and customer satisfaction, and your leadership strengthens our culture of continuous improvement.

Core Proficiencies

• Quality Control Experience
• PPAP Process Experience