Launch Engineer

Position Summary

The Launch / Change Management Engineer is responsible for leading and executing end-to-end program launches and engineering change processes in alignment with IATF 16949 and BMW Customer-Specific Requirements (CSR).

This role ensures that all product, process, and system changes (4M) are properly evaluated, approved, validated, and implemented without risk to quality, delivery, or customer compliance, while supporting APQP, Safe Launch (GP12), and series production readiness.

Key Responsibilities

• Launch & APQP Execution

• Lead plant-level execution of APQP deliverables across all phases (quote → SOP → ramp-up)
• Drive cross-functional readiness (Engineering, Quality, Operations, Materials, IT)
• Track program milestones and ensure all deliverables meet timing and quality targets
• Support equipment readiness, manufacturing strategy, and production ramp-up activities

• BMW Change Management (Core Ownership)

• Serve as Change Owner for all engineering and manufacturing changes
• Manage full lifecycle of changes:
• Identification and classification (product, process, 4M, supplier, SAP/MES)
• Risk assessment (quality, safety, delivery, cost)
• Cross-functional review and approval
• Ensure formal approval prior to implementation (no retroactive changes)

• BMW CSR / GS Compliance

• Evaluate every change against BMW GS standards and CSR requirements
• Determine need for: Customer notification, PPAP / PPA submission, PCS/IPQ triggers
• Ensure compliance with: GS 90018 (requalification), GS 91008 (maturity), GS 98001 (readiness)

• Product Safety & Special Characteristics

• Ensure proper handling of PSCR-related changes and safety-critical features
• Verify updates to: DFMEA / PFMEA, Control Plans
• Ensure safety approvals are completed before release

• Risk Management & Validation

• Lead structured risk analysis for all changes: Quality, Delivery, Compliance, Cost impact
• Define and execute: Trial runs / pilot builds, Capability studies (Cp/Cpk, Cm/Cmk), Measurement validation (MSA)

• Documentation & System Control

• Ensure all documentation is updated before change release, including: Work Instructions, Control Plans, Process flows and layouts, Inspection plans, SAP / MES master data
• Maintain strict version control and traceability

• Safe Launch (GP12) & Launch Stability

• Support and enforce BMW Safe Launch (GP12) containment strategy
• Ensure: Standardized inspection processes, Defect tracking and escalation, Operator training effectiveness
• Drive achievement of zero-defect containment and process stability

• Cross-Functional Coordination

• Lead change and launch reviews with: Quality, Engineering, Production, Logistics, IT / SAP / MES
• Act as key interface to: Program Management, Customer (BMW) when required

• Problem Solving & Continuous Improvement

• Support 8D / root cause investigations tied to launches or changes
• Drive lessons learned into future programs (APQP feedback loop)
• Identify systemic gaps in change control and implement corrective actions

Qualifications

• Education

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, Manufacturing, or related)

• Experience

• 3–7+ years in:
• Automotive manufacturing (Tier 1 preferred)
• Launch / APQP / program management
• Engineering change management

• Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of:
• IATF 16949 / APQP / PPAP
• DFMEA / PFMEA / Control Plans
• BMW CSR and GS standards (highly preferred)
• Experience with:
• SAP / MES systems
• BOM / routing changes
• Change management tools (PLM, ECN systems)

About Plasman

Plasman is a leading global manufacturer in bumpers-fascias, grilles, exterior trim, and subsystem components. As One Driving Force™, our diverse team of talented employees in 11 countries is driven by a commitment to outperform in all areas from engineering design to state-of-the-art manufacturing processes. Plasman’s global headquarters are in Oldcastle, Ontario.