Launch Engineer

Ford Motor Company

. Manage supplier quality and launch readiness across the new-model development process .

Posted 10/2/2026full-timeDearborn • Michigan • United StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $84,480 - $162,120 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in managing supplier quality and launch readiness, with a strong focus on APQP and PPAP processes. Capable of leading cross-functional teams and resolving quality issues through structured problem-solving and collaboration.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Supplier Quality ManagementAPQP ExecutionPPAP KnowledgeCross-Functional CollaborationManufacturing Experience

ATS Keywords

Tailor your resume

Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills

Bachelor of Science/EngineeringQuality Tools KnowledgeNew Model Launch Tools5 Why Methodology8D Problem SolvingParts Pedigree Risk AssessmentIndustrialization Readiness AssessmentProgram ManagementManufacturing KnowledgeCapacity Issue Resolution

Soft Skills

LeadershipCommunicationProblem-SolvingPresentation SkillsCross-Cultural Work Experience

Tools & Technologies

EAPQP SystemSTA Quality ToolsSupplier Engagement Tools

Industry Keywords

APQPPPAPQuality AssuranceSupplier EngagementManufacturing Standards

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Manage supplier quality and launch readiness across the new-model development process
Connect suppliers with Ford’s cross-functional program teams
Ensure new and changed components meet quality, timing, capacity, and production-readiness requirements
Drive APQP and Phased PPAP execution
Monitor supplier deliverables and identify and escalate launch risks
Facilitate action plans supporting on-time PSW approval
Support milestone reviews, supplier engagement activities, prototype and pre-production builds
Resolve supplier-related quality issues through structured problem-solving and cross-functional collaboration
Identify New Tooled End Items, including Multi-Party Agreements and directed tier 2 suppliers
Maintain program information in the eAPQP system
Lead priority supplier and Supplier Champion Process selections
Train suppliers and cross-functional team members on Supplier Engagement and APQP/PPAP Readiness Assessment
Track GPDS priority supplier evaluations, PPAP, and Schedule A status
Prepare milestone and special-attention review documents
Drive resolution of yellow/red deliverables and PPAP issues
Participate in program change-control meetings and collaborate with program leaders and purchasing managers
Develop Parts Pedigree Risk and Industrialization Readiness Assessments
Manage Phased PPAP timing plans and drive on-time approvals
Communicate PSW status and delinquencies to Site STA and Program teams
Provide onsite launch support for build events
Lead containment, 8D follow-up, and ICA/PCA activities for supplier quality issues
Support startup, audit, craftsmanship, shortage, and white-board review meetings

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor of Science/Engineering or equivalent combination of relevant education and experience
Proficient in English when working with global teams
Knowledge of STA Quality tools and systems
Knowledge of new model launch tools and systems
Ability to develop and present materials to leadership on short notice
Ability to lead resolution of manufacturing, quality, and/or capacity issues on-site with suppliers
Ability to travel in the US, Canada, and Mexico approximately 50-75% of the time
Manufacturing and Quality Experience
Cross-Functional/culture work experience
Program management experience
Extensive knowledge in manufacturing
Knowledge of AIAG (APQP), Product Planning Approval Process (PPAP), and quality tools such as 5 Why and 8D
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States
Visa sponsorship is not available

Benefits

Comp & perks

Immediate medical, dental, and prescription drug coverage
Flexible family care
Parental leave
New parent ramp-up programs
Subsidized back-up childcare
Vehicle discount program for employees and family members
Management leases
Tuition assistance
Established and active employee resource groups
Paid time off for individual and team community service
Generous schedule of paid holidays, including the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day
Paid time off
Option to purchase additional vacation time