Senior Automotive Program Manager - Launch Leader

Challenge Manufacturing; Cusseta (AL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Challenge Manufacturing in Alabama seeks a seasoned Program Manager to lead automotive program launches from design to production. You will drive cross-functional teams, act as the primary customer contact for engineering and quality, and ensure on-time, on-budget delivery of complex metal assemblies.

Required: 10+ years in automotive, 5+ years as a PM, and strong knowledge of APQP, PFMEA, GD&T, and PPAP processes.

Qualifications

• Minimum of ten years in automotive industry with stamping/welding/assembly ops.
• Minimum of five years as a Program Manager.
• Experience estimating complex stamping and welding processes.
• Mercedes Benz experience highly preferred.
• Proven track record launching large programs on time and under budget.
• APQP, PAPP, PFMEA, Control Plans and GD&T knowledge.
• Experience with GM/Honda tier-1 programs and PPAP processes.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office and Project.

Responsibilities

• Lead program launch process and monitor progress against customer requirements.
• Report status, timing, quality, and cost KPIs to executives.
• Develop KPIs to track launch status and performance.
• Provide project leadership and cross-functional coordination to production.
• Serve as key customer contact for engineering, quality, and launch teams.
• Ensure all customer deliverables and program timing are met.
• Maintain open issue reports and program files in an organized manner.
• Facilitate scope changes and minimize project risk; drive lessons learned at launch conclusion.

Skills

Communication

Leadership

Project management

Cross-functional coordination

Problem solving

Time management

People skills

Decision making

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical or Electrical/Controls or Industrial/Manufacturing Engineering

Tools

MS Word

MS Excel

MS Project

PowerPoint

Job description

Challenge Manufacturing in Alabama seeks a seasoned Program Manager to lead automotive program launches from design to production. You will drive cross-functional teams, act as the primary customer contact for engineering and quality, and ensure on-time, on-budget delivery of complex metal assemblies.

Required: 10+ years in automotive, 5+ years as a PM, and strong knowledge of APQP, PFMEA, GD&T, and PPAP processes.