Program Manager

Manpower; Auburn Hills (MI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading staffing agency is seeking a Program Manager in Auburn Hills, MI. The role involves executing new product launches and managing production programs for OEM customers. Requires strong leadership, technical knowledge, and customer-facing experience, along with a Bachelor's degree and 5+ years in automotive program management. This full-time position offers competitive compensation within a dynamic work environment.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of automotive core tools (APQP, PPAP, FMEA, MSA, SPC).
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams in a production setting.
• PMP certification preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end program management for GM and Ford programs.
• Communicate with cross-functional team members and OEM customers.
• Drive resolution of issues impacting timing, quality, or cost.

Skills

Strategic decision-making

Knowledge of automotive core tools

Excellent organizational and communication skills

Ability to manage multiple programs

Strong problem-solving skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Technical software proficiency

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business or related field

5+ years of experience in automotive program management

Tools

QMES

SAP

Job description

Overview

Position: Program Manager

Location: Auburn Hills, MI

Base pay range: $90,000.00/yr - $100,000.00/yr

Compensation: $90,000 – $100,000 annually

Job Summary

Responsible for executing new product launches and managing current production programs for OEM customers. This includes leading projects by overseeing timelines, budgets, quality standards, and communication between internal departments and customer contacts. This role requires strong leadership, technical knowledge, and customer-facing experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end program management for GM and Ford programs from award to SOP and through the production lifecycle.
• Organize and lead regular FMEA meetings in collaboration with R&D.
• Communicate with cross-functional team members in HQ (non-native English speakers); lead meetings and projects across time zones (flexible hours required).
• Serve as the primary point of contact for OEM customers on program-related activities.
• Develop and execute comprehensive project plans, manage timelines, and oversee financials.
• Lead cross-functional teams (sales, engineering, quality, purchasing, production) to ensure quality, profitability, and timely delivery.
• Ensure all APQP requirements are met.
• Manage program scope, budget deviations, tooling costs, and capital expenditures.
• Coordinate prototype builds, design changes, and engineering validation testing (DV/PV).
• Maintain program documentation including open issues, risk registers, timing plans, and gate reviews.
• Support launch readiness including PPAP, process capability studies, and line trials.
• Report program status to internal leadership and customers through reviews and dashboards.
• Drive resolution of issues impacting timing, quality, or cost.
• Ensure accountability for project milestones and successful execution.
• Foster a collaborative, customer-focused environment to meet project objectives.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Skills & Abilities

• Strategic decision-making and results-driven execution.
• Strong knowledge of automotive core tools (APQP, PPAP, FMEA, MSA, SPC).
• Understanding of production assembly management processes.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and technical software (QMES, SAP, etc.).
• Ability to manage multiple programs and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a continuous improvement mindset.
• Quick learner with a passion for growth.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in automotive program management, preferably with a Tier 1 supplier.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams and drive performance in a production setting.
• PMP certification preferred but not required.

Physical Requirements

• Sitting for extended periods (e.g., computer work, meetings).
• Standing/walking during plant tours or production floor visits.
• Occasional lifting (up to ~30 lbs).

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Project Management

Industries

• Motor Vehicle Manufacturing and Motor Vehicle Parts Manufacturing