Launch Engineer

Cooper-Standard Automotive, Inc.; Michigan; On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The Plant Launch Engineer leads the plant team for a program, product or process launch, coordinating cross-functional efforts to deliver all plant tasks and milestones. The role works closely with the Program Manager and other program team members and reports to the Launch Manager in Plant where applicable.

Key responsibilities include leading a plant-based program team, executing ClauS plant tasks for new launches, and ensuring readiness reviews, PPAPs, and customer requirements are met.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Manufacturing or Industrial Engineering preferred.
• Three years automotive industry experience required.
• Willingness to obtain Six Sigma Black Belt or Kepner-Tregoe certification.

Responsibilities

• Leads a cross-functional plant-based program team.
• Executes all plant tasks and deliverables for new product launches including tooling, run at rate, and PPAPs.
• Represents the team as the lead manufacturing member of the Program Team.
• Interfaces with the Program Manager, Program Engineer, Program Buyer, Account Manager, and Cost Analyst.
• Meets program timing requirements with focus on plant tasks and deliverables.
• Maintains schedules and roadmaps for plant targets and capital investment.

Skills

Cross-functional leadership

Program management

Lean / continuous improvement

Strong communication skills

Willingness to travel

Education

Bachelor of Science in Manufacturing or Industrial Engineering

High School Diploma or equivalent

Six Sigma Black Belt or Kepner-Tregoe certification

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Position Summary

The Plant Launch Engineer leads the plant team for a program, product or process launch. Responsible for all plant tasks, deliverables and events via the plant team. Works closely with the Program Manager and the rest of the Program Team. Functions as Program Manager for internal plant projects. Reports directly to Launch Manager in Plant (where applicable).

Primary Responsibilities

• Leads a cross‑functional plant‑based program team
• Is responsible to execute all ClauS deliverables, specifically all plant tasks and deliverables for new product launches including tool release, purchase and installation and commission of all tooling and equipment, run at rate, hiring and training, Power Builds, all PPAPs, supplier readiness reviews and meeting all customer requirements and MRDs
• Represents the team as the lead manufacturing member of the Program Team
• Interfaces with the Program Manager, Program Engineer, Program Buyer, Account Manager, and Cost Analyst
• Meeting program timing requirements for the total program, but with special focus on plant tasks and deliverables
• Gap analysis and roadmaps for plant targets including material, scrap, production cycle time, tool cost and capital investment
• Maintains shared responsibility to meet all operational financial targets with the plant/division teams
• Provides operations support for product builds, testing, process optimization, run at rate events and variation studies
• Represents operations in a professional way, maintains customer satisfaction, and meets customer expectations for response time, quality products, delivery on time, communication and quality systems
• When functioning as the Program Manager, meets all requirements of that Job Description
• Ensures Housekeeping and Health & Safety Standards are maintained
• Complies with policies and procedures pertaining to facility or divisional adopted standards such as IATF 16949 and ISO 14001
• Utilizes the concepts of continuous improvement including Lean Engineering Change, Inter‑Company and Proto‑type Coordination
• Management of Customer and Cooper Systems within the program management requirements (VPP, Alerts, EnterProj, Wind‑chill, etc.)
• Influences the level of service and the team’s ability to meet quality and volume objectives in a timely manner
• May, on occasion, be required to perform duties other than those specified in this description

Education and Qualifications

High School Diploma or equivalent required. Bachelor of Science (BA) in Manufacturing or Industrial Engineering preferred.

• Minimum of three years experience in automotive industry
• Willingness to obtain (or) possession of Six Sigma Black Belt or Kepner‑Tregoe certification
• Ability to solve complex problems and exercise judgement based on the analysis of multiple sources of information
• Experience in a variety of basic operations disciplines: Manufacturing Engineering, Quality Engineering, Materials and Logistics, Process / Tooling Engineering and Shop Floor Management
• In‑depth understanding and application of concepts, theories and principles in program management
• Identifies and coordinates the resolution of issues related to programs or processes
• Proficient in Microsoft Office
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Willingness and ability to travel, as necessary

Work Environment / Work Conditions

Professional Office Environment. Must wear proper personal protection equipment while on manufacturing floor. Travel to manufacturing facilities or customer locations when required. Equipment used requires proper training on the potential for and avoidance of injury.

Position Type

Regular

Additional Locations

None

Additional Information

Cooper Standard is proud of its diverse workforce and committed to providing equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, genetic information, physical or mental disability, age, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We are dedicated to creating an environment at work that not only values diversity but also encourages inclusion and a sense of belonging. We firmly believe that a diverse workplace fosters an environment where our employees can flourish and provide superior service to our customers. Because we recognize and value the range of ways in which people acquire experiences, whether personal, professional, or via education or volunteerism, we invite interested applicants to evaluate the key duties and requirements and apply for any opportunities that fit your experience and qualifications.

Applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act, as well as certain state and/or local laws. If you believe you require such assistance to complete our online application or to participate in an interview, you (or someone on your behalf) may request assistance by emailing [e-mail] with a description of the accommodation you seek. Application materials submitted to this email address will not be considered.

Remote Status

On‑site

Company Information

Cooper Standard, headquartered in Northville, Mich. USA, is a leading global supplier of systems and components for the automotive industry. Products include sealing, fuel and brake delivery, and fluid transfer systems. Cooper Standard employs approximately 24,000 people globally and operates in 21 countries around the world. For more information, please visit www.cooperstandard.com.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a diverse workforce. Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran VEVRAA Federal Contractor.