Plant Launch Manager — Automotive Programs

Cooper Standard Automotive; Sherman Park (SC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Cooper Standard Automotive is seeking a Plant Launch Manager to lead the plant team for programs, products, or process launches. You will oversee all plant tasks, deliverables, and events, reporting to the Plant Manager and coordinating with the Program Manager and Program Team.

The role requires strong leadership in a cross-functional setting, deep knowledge of manufacturing disciplines, and a track record in automotive program execution.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; Bachelor of Science in Manufacturing or Industrial Engineering preferred.
• Experience in Engineering and/or Manufacturing preferred.
• Minimum of five years of automotive industry experience; at least two years in a leadership role.
• Ability to make decisions impacting timing, quality, profitability, and key metrics.
• Experience across Manufacturing Engineering, Quality Engineering, Materials/Logistics, Tooling Engineering, and Shop Floor Management.

Responsibilities

• Lead the plant program management team and cross-functional plant-based program team.
• Execute all plant tasks and deliverables for new product launches including tooling and equipment release and run-at-rate activities.
• Represent operations as the lead manufacturing member of the Program Team and interface with multiple stakeholders.
• Meet program timing requirements with focus on plant tasks and deliverables.
• Conduct gap analyses and create roadmaps for plant targets including cost and capital investments.
• Support product builds, testing, process optimization, and variation studies.
• Maintain professional representation of operations and ensure customer satisfaction and timely communication.
• Ensure housekeeping and Health & Safety standards and compliance with IATF and ISO 14001.

Skills

Program management

Leadership

Cross-functional teamwork

Lean manufacturing

Continuous improvement

Education

High School diploma

Bachelor of Science in Manufacturing or Industrial Engineering

Job description

Cooper Standard Automotive is seeking a Plant Launch Manager to lead the plant team for programs, products, or process launches. You will oversee all plant tasks, deliverables, and events, reporting to the Plant Manager and coordinating with the Program Manager and Program Team.

The role requires strong leadership in a cross-functional setting, deep knowledge of manufacturing disciplines, and a track record in automotive program execution.