Senior Automotive Program Manager - Launch Leader

Challenge Mfg. Company LLC; Walker (MI); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Challenge Manufacturing in Walker, MI is seeking a Senior Program Manager to lead key customer programs from concept through launch in a high‑volume Tier 1 automotive environment. You will manage cross‑functional teams across Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain to meet timing, cost, and quality targets.

The ideal candidate has a bachelor’s degree in engineering, 7+ years in automotive program management, strong APQP/PPAP, PFMEA, GD&T knowledge, and proficiency with MS Project

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical/Controls, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering (or equivalent).
• 7+ years automotive experience, 5+ years program/project management in a Tier 1 environment.
• Strong understanding of APQP, PPAP, PFMEA, Control Plans, and GD&T.
• Proficient in Microsoft Project, Excel, PowerPoint, Word, PLEX.

Responsibilities

• Lead assigned programs through all phases—concept, design, build, validation, launch, and handoff to production.
• Manage program timing, open issues, and deliverables to ensure successful launch.
• Serve as the primary point of contact between Challenge and the customer for engineering, quality, and launch activities.
• Coordinate cross-functional support from Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Finance teams.
• Track and report program status using timing charts, KPI dashboards, and issue-tracking tools.

Skills

Program management

Cross-functional leadership

Communication

Launch discipline

APQP/PPAP/PFMEA/GD&T

Leadership

Travel coordination

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical/ Electrical/ Industrial/ Manufacturing Engineering

Master’s degree (preferred)

Tools

PLEX

MS Project

MS Excel/PowerPoint/Word

Job description

Challenge Manufacturing in Walker, MI is seeking a Senior Program Manager to lead key customer programs from concept through launch in a high‑volume Tier 1 automotive environment. You will manage cross‑functional teams across Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain to meet timing, cost, and quality targets.

The ideal candidate has a bachelor’s degree in engineering, 7+ years in automotive program management, strong APQP/PPAP, PFMEA, GD&T knowledge, and proficiency with MS Project