At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead APQP processes to ensure top-notch product quality in aerospace programmes.
- Company: Join Safran, a global leader in aviation and defence, committed to sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible benefits, competitive salary, early finishes on Fridays, and professional development.
- Other info: Dynamic workplace with excellent career growth and family-friendly policies.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on aerospace quality while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in aerospace quality and strong knowledge of APQP methodologies required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 € per year.
Safran is an international high-technology group, operating in the aviation (propulsion, equipment and interiors), defense and space markets. Its core purpose is to contribute to a safer, more sustainable world, where air transport is more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible. Safran has a global presence, with 100,000 employees and sales of 27.3 billion euros in 2024, and holds, alone or in partnership, world or regional leadership positions in its core markets.
Safran Seats is one of the world's leading manufacturers of aircraft seats, for both crew and passengers. 1 million Safran Seats-manufactured aircraft seats are currently in service with air fleets around the world.
Looking after the people who make Safran great is our priority. We offer a range of flexible benefits designed to support you-both in and out of work, including:
- Early finish on Fridays
- Competitive salary and annual bonus and pay review
- 25 days' holiday + bank holidays (option to buy/sell)
- Strong pension scheme and life assurance
- Professional development, ongoing training, mentoring
- Onsite amenities: parking, restaurant, bicycle storage, showers
- Family-friendly and accessible workplace policies
Your Role
As APQP Lead, you will be responsible for leading and deploying Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) processes across aerospace programmes, ensuring robust product realisation from concept through to production. You will play a critical role in delivering on-time, on-quality product launches while ensuring compliance with aerospace quality standards, customer requirements, and regulatory obligations.
Working across Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Program Management, you will drive risk mitigation, defect prevention, and continuous improvement throughout the product lifecycle. You will also act as the subject matter expert for APQP, championing best practice and embedding a culture of quality across the organisation.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading the implementation and standardisation of APQP methodology in line with AS9145
- Supporting new product introductions, product transfers, and major change programmes
- Overseeing PPAP submissions and acting as the primary customer quality interface for APQP-related matters
- Facilitating cross-functional APQP core team activities and phase gate reviews
- Ensuring supplier APQP compliance and readiness for critical components
- Developing training materials and coaching teams in quality planning tools and methodologies
What You'll Bring
- Significant experience in aerospace or automotive quality, manufacturing, or programme quality roles
- Proven track record of implementing APQP within an aerospace or automotive environment
- Strong knowledge of APQP tools and methodologies, including PFMEA, DFMEA, Control Plans, and Process Flow Diagrams
- Excellent cross-functional leadership, communication, and influencing skills
- Risk-based thinking with strong analytical and problem-solving capability
- Knowledge of AS9100 and AS9145 standards
- Degree in Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, or a related discipline
Industrial Process APQP Lead in Northampton employer: Safran
Safran is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With flexible benefits such as early finishes on Fridays, competitive salaries, and robust training programmes, employees are supported both personally and professionally. Located in a leading aerospace hub, Safran fosters a culture of innovation and quality, making it an ideal place for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the aviation and defence sectors.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Industrial Process APQP Lead in Northampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the aerospace and automotive sectors, especially those who work at Safran. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on APQP methodologies and aerospace standards. Show us you know your stuff and can lead quality planning like a champ!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your cross-functional leadership skills. We want to see how you can bring teams together to tackle challenges and drive improvements.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Safran family.
We think you need these skills to ace Industrial Process APQP Lead in Northampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the APQP Lead role. Highlight your experience in aerospace or automotive quality, and don’t forget to mention any specific APQP tools and methodologies you’ve used. We want to see how your skills match what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about the role and how your background makes you a perfect fit. Be sure to mention your understanding of AS9145 and your experience with cross-functional teams.
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, focus on your achievements rather than just duties. Use numbers and examples to demonstrate how you’ve successfully implemented APQP processes or improved product quality in previous roles. We love seeing results!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to upload all your documents in one go. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining the Safran team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Safran
✨Know Your APQP Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) methodologies. Be ready to discuss how you've implemented these processes in previous roles, especially in aerospace or automotive settings. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the concepts but have practical experience applying them.
✨Showcase Your Cross-Functional Skills
Since the role involves working across various departments like Engineering and Supply Chain, prepare examples that highlight your ability to lead cross-functional teams. Think of specific projects where you facilitated collaboration and drove results, as this will demonstrate your leadership and communication skills.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to APQP tools such as PFMEA, DFMEA, and Control Plans. Brush up on these topics and be ready to explain how you’ve used them in past projects. This will help you stand out as a knowledgeable candidate who can hit the ground running.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement
Safran values a culture of quality and continuous improvement. Be prepared to discuss how you've contributed to process improvements in your previous roles. Share specific examples of how you identified issues, implemented solutions, and measured success to show that you align with their commitment to excellence.
