Plant Launch Lead: Cross-Functional Programs

Cooper Standard; Spartanburg (SC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Cooper Standard is seeking a Plant Launch Manager to lead the plant team for product and process launches. You will partner with the Program Manager and cross-functional teams to drive on-time delivery, tooling, run-at-rate events, and supplier readiness.

The role requires a minimum of five years in the automotive sector, with at least two years in a leadership position. A BS in Manufacturing/Industrial Engineering is preferred. Willingness to travel and ensure ISO/IATF compliance are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing or Industrial Engineering preferred.
• Experience in Engineering and/or Manufacturing will be given preference.
• Minimum of five years’ experience in automotive industry, with at least two years in a leadership role.

Responsibilities

• Leads the plant program management team for a program, product or process launch.
• Executes all plant tasks and deliverables for new product launches including tool release, installation and commissioning.
• Represents the team as lead manufacturing member of the Program Team with cross-functional interfaces.
• Ensures program timing requirements with a focus on plant tasks and deliverables.
• Performs gap analyses and roadmaps for plant targets including material, scrap and cycle time.
• Provides operations support for product builds, testing and run-at-rate events.
• Maintains customer satisfaction, timely responses, and quality systems compliance.
• Ensures health & safety standards and IATF/ISO 14001 compliance.
• Supports quotation processes and manages internal program systems.
• Willingness and ability to travel as necessary.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Manufacturing or Industrial Engineering (preferred)

Job description

Cooper Standard is seeking a Plant Launch Manager to lead the plant team for product and process launches. You will partner with the Program Manager and cross-functional teams to drive on-time delivery, tooling, run-at-rate events, and supplier readiness.

The role requires a minimum of five years in the automotive sector, with at least two years in a leadership position. A BS in Manufacturing/Industrial Engineering is preferred. Willingness to travel and ensure ISO/IATF compliance are essential.