Launch Manager

100603 PM-Stratford; Stratford; On-site; CAD 105,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Johnson Electric in Stratford, ON is seeking a Launch Manager to lead the planning, execution, and delivery of new product launches on site. You will coordinate cross‑functional teams, drive automation and equipment integration, and manage capital projects from procurement to commissioning.

The role requires 2–3 years in automotive manufacturing, strong APQP/PPAP knowledge, and excellent communication skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or equivalent experience.
• 2–3 years in automotive manufacturing and project/program management.
• Knowledge of APQP/PPAP and automotive quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, execution, and delivery of new product launches through safe launch and ramp-up.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams as Project Team Lead for plant launches.
• Drive implementation of machining cells, assembly equipment, and automation systems.
• Manage capital equipment projects from spec to commissioning and proof.
• Ensure APQP, PPAP, Run@Rate, and capacity studies are completed.

Skills

Project management

Cross-functional teamwork

Analytical skills

Communication

Leadership

MS Office

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Tools

MS Project

Excel

Word

PowerPoint

Job description

Join Our Team as a Launch Manager at Johnson Electric! Location: Stratford, ON, Canada (onsite) Salary Range: $105K- $125K annually Vacancy Type: Existing Position

Why You’ll Love Working Here:

• Technological Leadership: Be part of a company that is a leader in its field, driving technological advancements.
• Work-Life Balance: Flexible working hours and policies that support a healthy work-life balance.
• Recognition Programs: Programs that recognize and reward employee achievements and contributions.
• Community Engagement: Opportunities to participate in community service and corporate social responsibility initiatives.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Lead the planning, execution, and successful delivery of new product launches through safe launch and production ramp-up
• Serve as the Project Team Lead for major plant launch activities and coordinate cross-functional teams
• Drive implementation of machining cells, assembly equipment, and automation systems
• Manage capital equipment projects, including specification development, vendor selection, procurement, installation, and commissioning
• Ensure successful execution of APQP, PPAP, Run@Rate, capacity studies, and other automotive quality requirements
• Coordinate customer deliverables and launch documentation activities
• Lead equipment debugging, validation, run-off, and manufacturing process implementation
• Monitor project timelines, budgets, risks, and resource allocation
• Support capacity planning and capital investment requirements for new equipment
• Assist with BOM creation, cost analysis, and project financial evaluations
• Facilitate project meetings, manage open actions, and drive completion of deliverables
• Support production line transfers and operational transitions between facilities when required
• Maintain strong communication with customers and internal stakeholders throughout project execution
• Promote internal customer satisfaction and continuous improvement within launch processes
• Ensure compliance with Quality, Environmental, Health, and Safety Management Systems

What We’re Looking For:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Industrial, Mechanical, Automotive, Electrical, or related field) or equivalent experience
• 2-3 years of experience in automotive manufacturing and project/program management
• Experience in machining, automated assembly, injection molding, or metal stamping operations
• Strong knowledge of APQP, PPAP, IATF 16949, and automotive quality standards
• Understanding of GD&T and manufacturing processes including casting, machining, grinding, deburring, washing, and assembly
• Experience with capital equipment procurement and vendor management
• Strong project management, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and leadership abilities
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint; MS Project is an asset)
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Strong written and verbal English communication skills

Bonus Points If You Have:

• Experience leading complex automotive product launches
• Experience with automation and advanced manufacturing systems
• Knowledge of capacity planning and equipment utilization analysis
• Experience supporting multi-site manufacturing operations
• Background in cost analysis and project financial management

What We Offer:

Johnson Electric offers talented people like you the opportunity to grow professionally and personally, surrounded by some of the most dedicated, innovative, and entrepreneurial colleagues you will find anywhere. Of course, we offer competitive pay and benefits, and far more than that, we offer a culture driven by our values and designed to ensure that our most important asset-our people-can flourish.

Johnson Electric welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. In accordance with applicable legislation, Johnson Electric is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free recruitment and selection process. Applicants should advise Human Resources if they require accommodation during the recruitment process.

Please note: Johnson Electric may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools as part of our process.

Come join our global, inclusive & diverse team. Our purpose is to improve the quality of life of everyone we touch through our innovative motion systems. We are a truly global team bound together by our shared values. Our culture is built on the diversity, knowledge, skills, creativity, and talents that each employee brings to the company. Our people are our company’s most valuable asset. We are committed to providing an inclusive, diverse and equitable workplace where employees of different backgrounds feel valued and respected, regardless of their age, gender, race, ethnicity or religious background. We are committed to inspiring our employees to grow, act with ownership and find fulfilment and meaning in the work they do.

About Johnson Electric Group

The Johnson Electric Group is a global leader in electric motors, actuators, motion subsystems and related electro‑mechanical components. It serves a broad range of industries including Automotive, Smart Metering, Medical Devices, Business Equipment, Home Automation, Ventilation, White Goods, Power Tools, Lawn & Garden Equipment, Warehouse Automation, Liquid Cooling and Robotic joints. The Group is headquartered in Hong Kong and employs over 30,000 individuals in over 20 countries worldwide. Johnson Electric Holdings Limited is listed on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (Stock Code: 179). For more information, visit johnsonelectric.com.