Lead SQE - Casting Specialist

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Job Posting Title

Lead SQE - Casting Specialist

Job Description Summary

The Lead SQE (Casting Specialist) requires a strong depth of experience in metal casting manufacturing processes. This role helps guide and develop casting supplier manufacturing locations in instituting key process monitoring techniques to ensure casting quality. They will be tasked with addressing special and common cause problem resolution with casting products. The Lead SQE will evaluate process capability of potential new sources. This role will also support training and development of SQE team members.

Job Description

• Responsible for New Casting Technology manufacturing risk and feasibility assessments
• Work with product engineering on manufacturing feasibility and provide guidance on engineering specifications (ES) and manufacturing design rules for structural and complex casting
• Provide guidance to purchasing for structural and complex casting sourcing by providing risk assessment
• Develop casting die standards including die materials and die coating specifications
• Assist suppliers in problem solving efficiency including root cause analysis through implementation of corrective actions.
• Lead multi-functional teams during technical reviews and respective deliverable sign off.
• Work with suppliers to develop continuous improvement plans and metrics to monitor performance and continuously improve quality and process and achieve cost reduction targets
• Expected to identify risks / potential failure modes in supplier processes and develop risk mitigation plans.
• Ensure compliance with Supplier Launch Performance Manual for new programs through completing of APQP (Advanced Part Quality Planning) phases that lead to flawless Quality (PPAP - Production Part Approval Process), Capacity Planning and Verification. Raise red issues and "date to green" plan to appropriate management. Ensure compliance to On-site review cadence of cross-functional teams based on priority levels. Complete PPAPs on time.
• Manage engineering and/or process changes and conduct PPAP review and approval.
• Lead issue resolution and evaluate for robust root cause identification and permanent corrective actions.
• Plan & implement SQ4 assessments. Follow up on actions from red/yellow path to green on critical suppliers.
• Support on-site supplier process capacity issue resolution - ensure a production plan exists to meet requirements.

Required Skills and Education

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering (ME, IE, EE) required.
• Advanced Secondary Degree (MS, MBA) preferred.
• Must have at least 15+ years directly related experience in casting industry.
• Candidates with metallurgical/materials engineering and or ASQ certifications (or similar) such as Certified Quality Auditor, Certified Quality Engineer preferred.
• ISO-9000/IATF16949 3rd party Auditor certification preferred
• Experienced in both Aluminum and Cast-Iron Casting processes.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing and operations experience in a casting plant environment preferred.
• Knowledge of simulation and analytical tools for die casting tooling development.
• Ability to understand and interpret results from simulations and make recommendations based on data.
• Ability to support die try-out: Understand casting dimensional errors and correction.
• Knowledge of aluminum & iron material properties, porosity detection, stress/strain, processing requirements.
• Experience in core making processes.
• Experience with CQI audit assessments and/or Commodity Control Plan for casting.
• Problem solving and root cause analysis.
• Strong communication skills required to mentor & develop engineers and present technical findings.
• Understands interpretation and application of global quality standards (ISO-9001 & IATF-19649 and VDA 6.3).
• Ability to conduct supplier assessments, complete and analyze APQP/PPAP/Capability data.
• Strong leadership capabilities, with ability to work cross-functionally with Engineering, Procurement, & Program Management.
• Must have a consistent track record to lead functional teams, work independently and obtain goal-oriented results.
• High level of independent judgment and strong negotiation; communications; analytical and leadership skills.
• Strong written and oral communications skills.
• Effective in working with a global team and lead decision-making processes in a team environment.
• Proficient in English language (Spanish a plus).
• Ability and willingness to travel in region (up to 50%).
• Ability and willingness to travel internationally (as required).

About American Axle & Manufacturing

As a leading global Tier 1 Automotive and Mobility Supplier, AAM (NYSE: AXL) designs, engineers and manufactures Driveline and Metal Forming technologies to support electric, hybrid and internal combustion vehicles. Headquartered in Detroit with nearly 85 facilities in 18 countries, AAM is bringing the future faster for a safer and more sustainable future. We work together to support our customers on global and regional platforms with a focus on quality, operational excellence and technology leadership.

With our global footprint, we are committed to building an equitable and inclusive culture that encourages, supports and celebrates the unique voices of our diverse workforce. We are AAM. Move with us, and join #TeamAAM.

AAM will not discriminate against any Associate or applicant for employment because of age, race, color, gender, religion, weight, height, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic history or information, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, national origin, or other characteristic protected by law. AAM will take affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed, and that Associates are treated equally during employment, without regard to their age, race, color, gender, religion, weight, height, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic history or information, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, national origin, or other characteristic protected by law. For the Disabled Job Seeker: We offer reasonable accommodations for qualified disabled individuals who are applicants for employment. To request assistance or accommodations, please e-mail [email protected] . AAM is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

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