Launch Interior Quality Engineer
Job Description
The Role
The Launch Interior Quality Engineer – Flint Assembly owns interior product and process quality for new and major model programs. You will ensure interior systems and components meet GM quality targets by driving robust launch readiness, structured problem solving, and a smooth handoff to steady-state operations.
You will support the Global Launch Process (GLP) and GMS Built-In Quality (BIQ) requirements, partnering with Plant Quality leadership, Interior Launch, Dimensional, Manufacturing Engineering, Supplier Quality, and Production to identify risks, resolve issues, and maintain compliance with GM’s Global Quality Manual and Quality Launch Plan.
What You’ll Do (Responsibilities)
- Lead interior launch quality as a core member of the plant Launch Team, reporting to the Quality Launch Manager.
- Own interior systems and component quality for new and major model programs in General Assembly (GA) and associated interior areas.
- Develop and execute the Manufacturing Quality Launch Plan for interior content in alignment with BIQ and MQRR requirements.
- Validate interior processes during pilot and trial builds, including assembly methods, torque and fastening strategies, error-proofing, PFMEA, Control Plans, gauges, checking fixtures, and reaction plans.
- Support Ergo, GCA, and build issues on PTBs at PPO North (Artisan Center).
- Confirm fit, finish, and functional performance of interior systems (e.g., IP, console, door trim, headliner, seats, carpets, restraints, and trim) during launch.
- Document concerns, containment actions, breakpoints, and Launch Product Remediation (LPR) in plant quality systems and Launch Manufacturing Quality Readiness Reviews.
- Analyze internal and external quality data, GCA findings, DRR/MQRR gaps, and plant metrics (e.g., FTQ, direct run, scrap, rework) to prioritize and resolve launch issues.
- Lead cross-functional problem solving with ME, Dimensional, Maintenance, and Production, and present clear problem definition, risk, recovery plans, and status updates to plant and engineering leadership.
- Use SPPS (Supplier Practical Problem Solving) to issue, track, and close supplier quality and supply chain records per GM 1927‑17, translating plant issues into actionable data and partnering with SQEs and Purchasing.
- Support supplier launch readiness for interior components, including process audits, PFMEA/control plan reviews, and appropriate use of cost recovery; quantify supplier-caused costs and support Cost of Quality reporting by plant.
- Support Engineering Work Orders, PTRs, Engineering Try-Outs, retrofits, and other change activities to ensure quality and traceability through change for interior systems.
Your Skills and Abilities (Required Qualifications)
- 3+ years of quality or engineering experience in assembly or interior manufacturing, preferably automotive or other high-volume environment.
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality, or a related technical field, or equivalent experience.
- Strong understanding of vehicle interior systems and GA build flow from body → paint → general assembly (GA).
- Ability to read and apply GD&T, prints, datum schemes, and locating strategies for interior components and systems.
- Experience with gauging and metrology relevant to interior (e.g., gap & flush, checking fixtures, attribute gauges, functional checks).
- Knowledge of joining and attachment technologies used in interior assembly such as mechanical fasteners, clips, brackets, structural adhesives, foams, weld studs, and fastening systems.
- Strong structured problem-solving skills (e.g., 8D, 5‑Why) and application of PFMEA, Control Plans, and reaction plans.
- Working knowledge of GM Quality System / GMS BIQ, the Quality Launch Plan, the Global Quality Manual, and GLP/MQRR/PQRR processes.
- Demonstrated managerial courage and the ability to coach, teach, and audit quality systems with plant staffs and leadership.
- Ability to manage complex, ambiguous tasks with minimal direction and communicate clearly in both written and verbal forums.
- Ability to present in front of staff leadership and effectively speak in front of others.
- Must be able to work on a rotating/flexible shift (1st, 2nd or 3rd), as well as overtime and weekends, as needed.
- Ability to travel locally to other GM site when required.
What Can Give You a Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications)
- 5+ years of quality or engineering experience in interior or assembly manufacturing, preferably automotive or other high-volume environment.
- Experience as an Interior, GA, or Launch Quality Engineer in automotive or similar high-volume manufacturing.
- Hands-on experience with GLP, PIT/IRT, and 7‑Diamond problem solving, including leading Diamond 4 (part‑to‑print) activities.
- Prior ownership of interior dimensional performance, fit/finish, and functional appearance through launch and into steady state.
- Advanced SPPS experience, including robust problem statements, containment and certified material planning, 1‑day/15‑day timing, and closure per GM 1927‑17.
- Proven success in supplier collaboration and development for interior commodities (launch readiness, process audits, PFMEA/control plan reviews, reduction of repeat issues) and using data to support cost recovery decisions.
- Experience working cross-functionally with Dimensional/VDQM, ME Body/GA, and Launch teams to meet static quality, functional, and appearance targets for interior systems.
- Demonstrated continuous improvement mindset aligned with GMS and BIQ.
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