Program Launch Engineer (Automotive) - Akron, PA

Swoon; Akron (Lancaster County); On-site; USD 75,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Swoon is seeking a Program Launch Engineer to support new product introductions in a fast-paced automotive manufacturing environment. This role involves coordinating product launch activities, managing timelines, and ensuring tooling and parts are delivered on schedule.

The ideal candidate will have over 3 years of relevant experience, a strong understanding of APQP/PPAP processes, and excellent project management skills. This position offers a salary range of $75,000 – $90,000 with opportunities for flexibility based on experience.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of product launch, manufacturing, or program engineering experience.
• Strong understanding of APQP and PPAP processes.
• Background in automotive manufacturing highly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and manage product launch activities across cross-functional teams.
• Develop and track project timelines, budgets, and deliverables.
• Support APQP/PPAP processes and prepare launch documentation.

Skills

Product launch experience

Project management

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Job description

$75,000 – $90,000 + opportunity for flexibility based on experience

A growing global manufacturer in the automotive and connectivity space is seeking a Program Launch Engineer to support new product introductions and launch activities in a fast-paced production environment.

This is a highly visible role partnering with Engineering, Operations, Quality, and leadership teams to ensure successful product launches from concept through production. The team is looking for a self-starter who can take ownership, solve problems independently, and drive projects forward.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate and manage product launch activities across cross-functional teams
• Develop and track project timelines, budgets, and deliverables
• Support APQP/PPAP processes and prepare launch documentation for automotive customers
• Lead project meetings and communicate status updates to leadership
• Partner with suppliers to ensure tooling and parts are delivered on schedule
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the launch process
• Support feasibility studies, capacity planning, FMEA, DVP&R, and related engineering activities

What They’re Looking For

• 3+ years of product launch, manufacturing, or program engineering experience
• Strong understanding of APQP and PPAP processes
• Background in automotive manufacturing highly preferred
• Experience working in cross-functional manufacturing environments
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and/or Six Sigma is a plus
• Strong project management, communication, and problem-solving skills
• 25% travel as needed
• Opportunity to help build and shape a growing automotive division