Program Manager I

American Rheinmetall; Auburn Hills (MI); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

American Rheinmetall is seeking a senior program leadership professional to ensure the successful delivery of critical U.S. defense programs. The role emphasizes direct program support, portfolio oversight, and maturation of program management tools and processes across multi-team efforts.

You will lead proposals, manage stakeholder relationships, and drive continuous improvement while ensuring adherence to established procedures and standards.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of U.S. Department of Defense processes for vehicle development and procurement.
• Familiarity with US Army TACOM and GVSC environments.
• Hands-on, independent work demeanor.
• Understanding of Military Standards and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Direct support to communicated programs and delivery timelines.
• Oversee a large portfolio of internal investment projects.
• Develop and mature AR Program Management tools and processes.
• Lead proposal development to ensure compliant, winning submissions.
• Guide a team, enforcing agreed processes and procedures.
• Manage stakeholder relationships to optimize performance and navigate political aspects.
• Mature organizational structure within the AR team for clear responsibilities.
• Support delivery and control of large-scale projects.
• Pursue continuous process improvements and portfolio optimization.
• Undertake other duties as directed by the Director, Programs.

Education

BSc in Business Administration / Mechanical Engineering / Electrical Engineering / Industrial Engineering

PMP Certification

Job description

American Rheinmetall is a leader in the design, development, and production of advanced tracked and wheeled vehicles, vehicle systems, and critical components that support U.S. military modernization. Our expertise spans electronic and mechanical systems, fabricated structures, armored products, rubber solutions, and track systems, delivering reliable innovation to both defense and commercial markets. As part of the global Rheinmetall family, we combine proven heritage with forward-looking technology to provide solutions that defend and feed the world.

Job Summary:

This key leadership position is a pivotal role within American Rheinmetall focusing on the successful delivery of critical program(s).

Essential Functions:

• Direct Support to all communicated program(s).
• Support a large complex portfolio of internal investment projects.
• Perform a key role in the continued development and maturation of AR Program Management tools and processes.
• As a member of AR Capture and Proposal teams perform lead role in developing compliant and wining proposals.
• Lead a team by example, ensuring adherence to all agreed process and operating procedures.
• Manage relationships with all stakeholders to ensure performance is optimized and be able to manage the political dimensions associated with a high-profile program.
• Working with key stakeholders continue to mature the organizational structure within the AR team to promote clear responsibilities and opportunities for team members to succeed in their roles.
• Support delivery and control of a large-scale project/projects
• Continuous Improvement of processes/efficiencies as well as product portfolio.
• Undertake other duties as directed by the Director, Programs or his/her delegate.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

None

Minimum Qualifications:

• Knowledge of the US DoD process and procedures for vehicle development and procurement.
• Familiarity with the US Army TACOM/ and GVSC.
• Practical ‘hands on’ attitude with the ability to operate independently.
• Detailed knowledge of Military Standards and Regulations.

Education & Experience

• BSc in Business Administration, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering or Mechanical Engineering Technology, Vehicle Technology, Systems Engineering or equivalent work experience
• PMP (Project Management Professional): Administered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), this is the most common foundational certification preferred

Background Prerequisites:

• Minimum of 5 Years’ Experience in delivering large complex US Defense programs, preferably in vehicle domain from start to serial production
• Experience in working in a multi-national, multi-organizational and corporate environment.
• Experience in capture, bid contract negotiations, and planning delivery.
• Experience with i.e. program management tools such as Earned Value Management, DELTEK Suite of Program Management Tools, MS Project, SAP
• Demonstrable ability to manage budgets, mitigate risks, and coordinate diverse departments

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ability to speak German is desired

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

With or without reasonable accommodation requires the physical and mental capacity to perform effectively all essential functions. In addition to other demands, the demands of the job include:

• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally
• Ability to support travel of up to 25%. Traveling to Germany and other sites in the US and abroad as required.
• Ability to perform job in a workspace (close proximity to others)

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

American Rheinmetall provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sex (including pregnancy), gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or marital status, in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.