Launch Supplier Quality Engineer (Maternity Cover)
Join Our Team as a Launch Supplier Quality Engineer (Launch SQE)
The Launch Supplier Quality Engineer (Launch SQE) is responsible for supporting new product launches by ensuring supplier readiness, monitoring APQP and PPAP activities, identifying risks, and coordinating cross-functional actions to achieve successful program launches.
This role works closely with suppliers, Engineering, Purchasing, Manufacturing, and Program Management to deliver quality products on time.
- Location: Porto – Hipercentro Areosa Business Park
- Work model: Hybrid (3 days/week in office)
Please submit your CV in English, as our hiring managers operate in an international environment.
About the Role:
- Coordinate supplier launch activities from supplier kick-off through PPAP approval.
- Monitor APQP deliverables and supplier readiness against program milestones.
- Identify, communicate, and escalate supplier quality, timing, and capacity risks.
- Support resolution of supplier quality issues using structured problem-solving methods.
- Coordinate Engineering Changes and ensure timely implementation.
- Participate in Program Reviews, Gate Reviews, and Launch Readiness Reviews.
- Prepare and present supplier launch status, risks, and recovery plans.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support successful program execution.
- Maintain accurate launch documentation and program tracking.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives and lessons learned activities.
What We’re Looking For:
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related technical field.
- 1–5 years of experience in Supplier Quality, Quality Engineering, Manufacturing, Program Management, or Automotive Launch.
- Basic understanding of APQP, PPAP, AIAG Core Tools, and IATF 16949.
- Experience working with automotive suppliers is preferred.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel and PowerPoint).
Preferred Competencies
- Project management and organizational skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong problem-solving and root cause analysis skills.
- Effective communication with suppliers and cross-functional teams.
- Proactive mindset with a strong sense of ownership and accountability.
- Ability to work independently while collaborating across global teams.
What We Offer:
- Hybrid working model
- Annual Bonus Plan
- Pension Plan
- Parental Benefits
- Referral Bonus
- Extra Vacation Days & Flex Days Off
- Health Insurance
- Birthday Off
- 24 December Off
- Career Development Support (LinkedIn Learning, Excel & Language Courses)
- Multicultural Environment (23 nationalities, 12 languages)
- Employee Assistance Programme
- 1 Day Paid Volunteering
- Modern Office Facilities
- Discounts Across Retailers & Services
- Monthly Breakfasts
DAUCH ( formerly GKN Automotive in Porto):
Established in 2020, our Global Business Services (GBS) is located at the heart of Porto (Hipercentro Areosa Business Park), where our 300+ employees provide support on a global level within areas of Finance, Procurement, HR and IT (to name a few). Our workplace is diverse and inclusive and our locally based team is represented by individuals from 23 different countries. Our culture is underpinned by our Values & Behaviors – Ingenious, Collaborative, Driven, Principled.
Our Porto team is a highly diverse group who value collaboration and problem-solving. We offer opportunities for people with disability and welcome all notes of interest in how we might bring you into our GKN Automotive community. Our Porto facilities are already adapted and equipped with ramps and accessible pathways to accommodate individuals with reduced mobility, reflecting our dedication to providing an environment where everyone can thrive and contribute their best. We know that disability goes beyond mobility limitations, and we remain committed to fostering inclusive practices across all dimensions. If you need any accommodations during the recruitment process, please let us know through our email accommodations@gknautomotive.com
Why not join us and help accelerate the future?
#LI-Hybrid