Pilot Programs Project Manager – Manufacturing Launch Leader

Yanfeng International Automotive Technology Co. Ltd.; Louisville (KY); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive Compensation Packages

Generous Paid Vacation

Medical, Dental, and Vision Benefits

Job summary

Yanfeng International Automotive Technology Co. Ltd. in Louisville, KY seeks a Project Manager, Pilot Programs to lead planning, execution, and validation of new manufacturing pilot programs. You will coordinate operations, engineering, quality, maintenance, and supply chain to ensure on-time launches and safe, compliant processes.

The role requires strong PM skills, problem-solving, and communication; travel to customer sites is expected as part of project execution.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree specializing in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, Business, or a related field.
• 5-9 years of experience in automotive manufacturing or related field.
• Experience leading new product launches, pilot programs, process implementations, or manufacturing transfers.
• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing, APQP, PFMEA, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Proficiency in project management tools and reporting systems.
• PMP certification preferred.
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Willingness to travel and work at customer sites.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end execution of manufacturing pilot programs, from planning through production readiness and launch.
• Develop and manage project schedules, budgets, timelines, and deliverables.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams including Operations, Engineering, Quality, Maintenance, Supply Chain, Purchasing, and Production.
• Identify project risks, develop mitigation plans, and proactively resolve issues impacting project objectives.
• Monitor pilot performance metrics and analyze results to validate process capability, productivity, quality, and safety requirements.
• Facilitate project meetings, status updates, and executive reviews.
• Ensure adherence to customer specifications, manufacturing standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives and capture lessons learned for future program launches.
• Support equipment installation, process validation, training, and readiness activities for pilot programs.
• Maintain accurate project documentation, reports, and communication plans.
• Manage change control activities and ensure alignment among stakeholders.
• Coordinate transition of successful pilot programs into full-scale manufacturing operations.

Skills

Project management

Lean Manufacturing

APQP

PFMEA

Continuous improvement

Leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering / Manufacturing / Operations Management / Business

Tools

Project management software

Reporting systems

Job description

Yanfeng International Automotive Technology Co. Ltd. in Louisville, KY seeks a Project Manager, Pilot Programs to lead planning, execution, and validation of new manufacturing pilot programs. You will coordinate operations, engineering, quality, maintenance, and supply chain to ensure on-time launches and safe, compliant processes.

The role requires strong PM skills, problem-solving, and communication; travel to customer sites is expected as part of project execution.