Quality Development Engineer (Precision Machining)

HPDI Technology LP is a joint venture between Volvo Group and Westport Fuel Systems Inc. A clean technology company, headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, driving innovation in clean fuel systems and components for long-haul and off-road applications. Our products and technologies deliver performance, fuel efficiency and environmental benefits to address the challenges of global climate change and urban air quality.

Position Overview

The Quality Development Engineer, specialized in precision machining, utilizes machining expertise to conduct critical design feasibility studies and Quality core tools to enhance process development and controls with key supply partners, in-house manufacturing teams and our customers. This role plays a crucial role in achieving business objectives, especially in advancing the decarbonization of heavy-duty transportation and promoting a culture where partnership is the new leadership. The position focuses on identifying opportunities to achieve the best technical and cost-effective solutions, promoting smooth collaboration across multidisciplinary teams and supply partners throughout all phases of new product development.

Position Responsibilities

• Collaborate with product engineering to develop new product concepts, ensuring designs are manufacturable and aligned with PFMEA methodologies.
• Identify and evaluate risks to manufacturing processes and equipment crucial for maintaining production output and meeting customer requirements.
• Ensure supplier manufacturing processes consistently meet technical specifications and capacity requirements.
• Drive and monitor APQP with supply partners, in-house manufacturing and customers to achieve project milestones and quality targets.
• Manage the Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) with supply partners, in-house manufacturing and customers.
• Lead supplier management and in-house manufacturing activities, including evaluation, control of non-conforming material, and development of inspection plans.
• Optimize manufacturing processes and controls at supply partners, identifying cost-saving opportunities.
• Provide training and support as a Subject Matter Expert in manufacturability.
• Independently manage assigned supply partners to avoid further escalations and quality issues through onsite visits, Supplier Audits, and problem-solving support.

Position Requirements

Key requirement

• Bachelor's degree in engineering preferred; relevant experience will be considered.
• Minimum 15 years of manufacturing experience and at least 6 years in Supplier Development/Quality roles.
• Must have:
  • In-depth knowledge of multiple high-precision machining processes: CNC milling, turning, EDM, grinding, polishing, super finishing, lapping, drilling, and honing.
  • Practical experience in automotive manufacturing processes, specializing in fuel injectors, actuators, manifolds, gaseous seals, and other high-precision mechanical components.
  • Strong expertise in high-precision metrology, focusing on accuracy and repeatability of measurements.
• Expertise in special processes such as heat treatment, coating, and investment casting.
• Stay updated with industry trends and technological advancements, integrating optimal practices in manufacturing and engineering.
• Proficient in manufacturing process design, including machinery and tooling selection and cost analysis.
• Proven experience in assessing prospective supply partners, identifying and mitigating risks associated with their capabilities.
• Working knowledge of ASME Y14.5 GD&T application.
• Strong familiarity with New Product Development, APQP, and PPAP methodologies.
• Proficient in AIAG Workbooks: MSA, FMEA, SPC, and 8D Methods.
• Experience in conducting process capability studies and capacity assessments.

Key Personal Traits

• Highly motivated to accomplish all the tasks required to meet product development schedules and world class manufacturing expectations
• Works well in a team environment, cost-conscious, effective, and autonomous
• Be able to travel domestically and internationally for supplier visits and our manufacturing sites. In some cases, with a short notice

Added Bonus If You Have

• ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 Auditor Certification, Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)
• Specialized proficiency in heat treatment, coating processes, and investment casting
• Experience with development of pressure test equipment
• Working experience in Metrology lab: Inspection Method and Equipment

Salary Range

This role offers a competitive compensation and benefits program. Salary range is dependent on numerous factors including job location, skills/competencies and experience.