Engineer Supplier PPAP Specialist

Role & responsibilities

Preferred candidate profile

The Supplier PPAP Specialist plays a key role in executing Supplier Production Part Approval Process (SPPAP) deliverables for global Accelerated Product Development (APD) programs. This position ensures thorough validation of supplier components against Donaldson and customer specifications, supports on-time program launches, and ensures sustainable supplier performance.

Key Responsibilities:

1. SPPAP Execution & Review

• Manage end-to-end PPAP package creation, submission, and approval using Donaldsons SPPAP software.
• Ensure compliance with Donaldson drawings, supplier prints, specifications, Control Plans, PFMEAs, and ISO/IATF standards.

2. Technical Collaboration

• Coordinate daily with global Supplier Quality Engineers (SQEs), Design Engineers, and suppliers.
• Resolve drawing and process issues through redline reviews, tolerance stack-up analysis, and control of special characteristics.

3. Documentation & Record Control

• Maintain accurate and traceable PPAP records and master lists.
• Comply with ISO 9001, IATF 16949, and Donaldsons document retention procedures.

4. Process & Quality Tools Support

• Provides guidance to suppliers on APQP, Control Plans, PFMEA linkage, MSA, and statistical capability.
• Deliver first-pass reviews to reduce rework and improve submission quality.

5. Continuous Improvement

• Capture lessons learned and contribute to standard work development.
• Support enhancements to the SPPAP system and associated training materials.

6. Metrics & Reporting

• Track PPAP status, cycle time, and first-pass approval rates.
• Escalate potential risks to program timing or quality.

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, Industrial, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field.

Experience:

Minimum 5 years in Supplier Quality, Manufacturing Engineering, or Quality Engineering roles with hands-on PPAP/APQP responsibilities.

Technical Skills & Tools:

• Solid understanding of ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 standards.
• Proficient in interpreting engineering drawings, GD&T, and technical specifications.
• Experienced with Control Plans, PFMEAs, MSA, SPC, and capability studies.
• Familiar with PPAP/SPPAP workflow software (e.g., Windchill & Minitab or equivalent).
• Advanced skills in MS Office; familiarity with 3D CAD viewers and statistical tools is a plus.

Language Requirements:

• Fluent in professional English (spoken and written).
• Capable of drafting technical reports and communicating effectively with global teams.

Preferred Qualifications:

• APQP/PPAP certification (AIAG or equivalent).
• Experience with filtration systems, metal fabrication, plastics, or formed metal components.
• Involvement in NPI or APD projects across multiple regions.
• Working knowledge of supplier audits and familiarity with VDA 6.3 or AS9100 is advantageous.

Key Competencies:

• Strong attention to detail and data accuracy.
• Effective communicator with the ability to influence both suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Action-oriented with a drive to meet aggressive timelines.
• Skilled in structured problem-solving (8D, 5 Whys, Ishikawa).
• Culturally agile and effective in cross-regional collaboration.

Working Conditions:

• Flexibility for early morning or late evening meetings with teams in the U.S., EMEA, and APAC.
• Based in the Donaldson Chakan, Pune, India office