Program Manager

Answer Precision Technologies; Kitchener; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A technology solutions company in the Region of Waterloo is seeking a skilled Program Manager to lead complex tooling and automation projects. The ideal candidate will have at least 3 years of experience in program management within the automotive or tooling industry. This role requires strong leadership, customer focus, and the ability to coordinate cross-functional teams. A solid understanding of automation systems and CAD software is preferred.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years' experience in a program or project management role within the automotive or tooling industry.
• Solid understanding of automation systems and tooling processes.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings (including GD&T).
• Experience coordinating with external automation experts is a strong asset.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, execution, and tracking of tooling and automation projects.
• Coordinate effectively with sales, engineering, purchasing, manufacturing, quality, and logistics teams.
• Address warranty issues, manage engineering changes, and propose solutions.

Skills

Customer focus

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Problem-solving

Leadership

Prioritization

Education

Post-secondary education in Engineering, Project Management, or skilled trades

Tools

CAD software

Job description

General Purpose

We are looking for a skilled Program Manager with a strong track record in leading complex tooling and automation projects from kickoff to delivery. This is a hands-on role that requires excellent communication, strong technical understanding, and a genuine commitment to teamwork and customer satisfaction. You’ll work closely with a collaborative program management team, as well as cross-functional internal groups and external partners, to ensure projects are delivered on time, on budget, and at the highest quality.

Key Responsibilities

Project Leadership

• Lead planning, execution, and tracking of tooling and automation projects from concept through delivery.
• Work closely with the Production Manager & Team Leads to keep projects on schedule, scope, and within budget.
• Serve as the primary liaison to the customer, ensuring alignment on expectations and handling all communications throughout the program.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Coordinate effectively with sales, engineering, purchasing, manufacturing, quality, and logistics teams.
• Lead and document review meetings across departments and keep teams aligned on goals and milestones.
• Work with team to ensure all materials, components, and outsourced items are ordered and tracked efficiently.

Supplier and Automation Coordination

• Manage communication with internal & external automation partners, including controls designers and programmers.
• Coordinate third-party involvement, ensuring supplier timelines and quality align with project goals.

Issue Management & Continuous Improvement

• Address warranty issues, manage engineering changes, and coordinate required modifications.
• Proactively identify risks, propose solutions, and adapt plans as needed.
• Maintain documentation and reports that support transparency and program tracking.

Qualifications & Skills

• Strong customer focus with excellent communication and organizational skills
• Minimum 3 years' experience in a program or project management role within the automotive or tooling industry
• Post-secondary education in Engineering, Project Management, or skilled trades is an asset (PMP designation not required, but also an asset)
• Solid understanding of automation systems and tooling processes
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings (including GD&T)
• Exhibits strong leadership through a servant mindset and leading by example
• Skilled at problem-solving, prioritizing, and balancing multiple demands
• Experience coordinating with external automation experts (e.g., controls designers/programmers) is a strong asset
• Familiarity with CAD software is an asset