Automotive Launch Program Lead

Magna International, Inc.; Muncie (IN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Magna Powertrain is seeking an experienced Program Launch Lead to drive launches from award through SOP and ramp-up at our Indiana facility. You will coordinate cross-functional teams across manufacturing, engineering, quality, supply chain, and finance to deliver detailed launch plans and milestones.

The role requires 5-7 years in manufacturing or program launches, with a strong focus on APQP/PPAP and production readiness.

Qualifications

• 5-7 years of experience in manufacturing, program launch, or program management within the automotive industry.
• Bachelor's degree required or equivalent experience (6 additional years of related technical experience).
• Engineering or technical degree strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated experience supporting or leading program launches in a plant environment.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, production readiness, and APQP/PPAP requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead all plant launch activities from program award through SOP and ramp-up.
• Act as the primary plant interface for launch-related communication with internal teams and program management.
• Coordinate cross-functional launch teams including manufacturing, engineering, quality, supply chain, maintenance, and finance.
• Develop, manage, and execute detailed launch plans, timelines, and deliverables in alignment with GPMS and customer milestones.
• Track and drive closure of open issues related to equipment, tooling, quality, staffing, and materials to ensure launch readiness.
• Support equipment installation, validation, run-offs, and production trials to meet required production and quality targets.
• Ensure completion of APQP deliverables including PFMEA, control plans, work instructions, and PPAP submissions.
• Monitor launch metrics including run-at-rate, scrap, downtime, and OEE; drive corrective actions as needed.
• Escalate risks to leadership and ensure timely resolution of critical issues impacting launch timing or performance.
• Support hiring, training, and readiness of production teams to meet launch requirements.
• Ensure MAFACT principles and standards are implemented throughout launch activities.
• Drive continuous improvement and lessons learned activities post-launch to support future program success.
• Support transition from launch phase to steady-state production, ensuring stability in safety, quality, delivery, and cost.
• Ensure compliance with quality systems (IATF 16949), safety standards (OSHA/ANSI), and environmental requirements.
• Maintain a strong focus on safe work practices during all launch activities.
• Additional duties as assigned.

Skills

Program launch

Manufacturing

Cross-functional

APQP/PPAP

OEE tracking

Problem solving

Budget awareness

MS Office

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Magna Powertrain is seeking an experienced Program Launch Lead to drive launches from award through SOP and ramp-up at our Indiana facility. You will coordinate cross-functional teams across manufacturing, engineering, quality, supply chain, and finance to deliver detailed launch plans and milestones.

The role requires 5-7 years in manufacturing or program launches, with a strong focus on APQP/PPAP and production readiness.