Robotics & Drones Program Leader

Aptiv; Troy (MI); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Aptiv is seeking an experienced Program Manager to lead the development, commercialization, and delivery of robotics and drone hardware and software systems. You will oversee a portfolio of complex programs, guiding them from concept through launch and production deployment, while managing budgets, risks, and stakeholder expectations.

You will partner with engineering, product, and operations teams to implement scalable development processes, ensure quality and regulatory compliance, and drive

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a technical or related field; 10+ years leading complex programs.
• 5+ years leading Project Managers or cross-functional development teams.
• Experience delivering hardware and software products through full development lifecycle.
• Strong budgeting, scheduling, resource planning, and performance metrics management.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, problem-solving, and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead a portfolio of robotics and drone development programs spanning hardware, software, autonomy, and integrated system solutions.
• Mentor and manage a team of Project Managers and cross-functional teams.
• Translate business strategy, product roadmaps, and customer requirements into executable program plans.
• Own program performance, delivery schedules, budgets, risks, and outcomes.
• Drive alignment across engineering, product, operations, manufacturing, and commercial teams.
• Establish program plans, milestones, and execution roadmaps; ensure readiness for design reviews and product launches.
• Lead customer reviews, executive updates, and escalation management; manage proposals and growth initiatives.
• Develop governance frameworks, KPI reporting, and cross-functional process improvements.
• Oversee budgets, staffing plans, and resource forecasts; monitor profitability and investment needs.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Skills

Leadership

Program management

Communication

Problem-solving

Negotiation

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Program Management, or related

Master's degree in Engineering, Business, or related

Tools

Project management tools

PMP/PgMP/Agile certifications

Job description

Aptiv is seeking an experienced Program Manager to lead the development, commercialization, and delivery of robotics and drone hardware and software systems. You will oversee a portfolio of complex programs, guiding them from concept through launch and production deployment, while managing budgets, risks, and stakeholder expectations.

You will partner with engineering, product, and operations teams to implement scalable development processes, ensure quality and regulatory compliance, and drive