Automotive Launch Manager - APQP/PPAP, Mold Transfers

The Keystone Distinction Group; Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical

Dental

Vision

401k with company match

Employee Assistance Program

Employee Discounts

Flexible Spending Account

Life Insurance

Paid time off

Referral Program

Job Promotional Opportunities

Climate controlled environment

Job summary

The Keystone Distinction Group is seeking an experienced Launch Manager to lead and coordinate all aspects of new product launches, engineering changes, and customer program transfers within an automotive plastic injection molding environment.

This role serves as the primary liaison between customers and internal departments to ensure launches meet quality, cost, and timing requirements and requires strong project management, CAD proficiency, and travel as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred.
• 5+ years in automotive manufacturing.
• 3+ years in project/launch management or operations leadership.
• Experience in plastic injection molding preferred.
• Strong knowledge of APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans, MSA, SPC, and IATF 16949.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.
• Willing and able to travel as necessary.
• Proficient in CAD software and project management tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead all activities related to new product launches and program transfers.
• Develop and maintain launch timelines and project plans.
• Coordinate APQP and PPAP activities.
• Lead cross-functional launch meetings and readiness reviews.
• Manage customer-specific launch requirements.
• Coordinate engineering changes and product transfers.
• Ensure manufacturing readiness including tooling, equipment, staffing, and training.
• Support production trials, mold qualifications, and run-at-rate activities.
• Monitor launch budgets and capital expenditures.
• Conduct post-launch reviews and continuous improvement activities.

Skills

Project management

APQP/PPAP

CAD software

Team leadership

MS Office

Travel ready

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

CAD software

Project management tools

MS Office

Job description

The Keystone Distinction Group is seeking an experienced Launch Manager to lead and coordinate all aspects of new product launches, engineering changes, and customer program transfers within an automotive plastic injection molding environment.

This role serves as the primary liaison between customers and internal departments to ensure launches meet quality, cost, and timing requirements and requires strong project management, CAD proficiency, and travel as needed.