Launch Manager

Location: Stratford, ON, Canada (onsite)
Salary Range: $105K- $125K annually
Vacancy Type: Existing Position

As our next Launch Manager, you’ll be at the forefront of managing new product launches, manufacturing process development, assembly cell implementation, and equipment integration. Your expertise in automotive manufacturing, project management, and operational excellence will be crucial in ensuring successful product launches from concept through production start-up.

• Lead the planning, execution, and successful delivery of new product launches through safe launch and production ramp-up
• Serve as the Project Team Lead for major plant launch activities and coordinate cross-functional teams
• Drive implementation of machining cells, assembly equipment, and automation systems
• Manage capital equipment projects, including specification development, vendor selection, procurement, installation, and commissioning
• Ensure successful execution of APQP, PPAP, Run[redacted], capacity studies, and other automotive quality requirements
• Coordinate customer deliverables and launch documentation activities
• Lead equipment debugging, validation, run-off, and manufacturing process implementation
• Monitor project timelines, budgets, risks, and resource allocation
• Support capacity planning and capital investment requirements for new equipment
• Assist with BOM creation, cost analysis, and project financial evaluations
• Facilitate project meetings, manage open actions, and drive completion of deliverables
• Support production line transfers and operational transitions between facilities when required
• Maintain strong communication with customers and internal stakeholders throughout project execution
• Promote internal customer satisfaction and continuous improvement within launch processes
• Ensure compliance with Quality, Environmental, Health, and Safety Management Systems

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Industrial, Mechanical, Automotive, Electrical, or related field) or equivalent experience
• 2–3 years of experience in automotive manufacturing and project/program management
• Experience in machining, automated assembly, injection molding, or metal stamping operations
• Strong knowledge of APQP, PPAP, IATF 16949, and automotive quality standards
• Understanding of GD&T and manufacturing processes including casting, machining, grinding, deburring, washing, and assembly
• Experience with capital equipment procurement and vendor management
• Strong project management, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and leadership abilities
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint; MS Project is an asset)
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Strong written and verbal English communication skills

• Experience leading complex automotive product launches
• Experience with automation and advanced manufacturing systems
• Knowledge of capacity planning and equipment utilization analysis
• Experience supporting multi-site manufacturing operations
• Background in cost analysis and project financial management

Apply online at www.johnsonelectric.com — We can’t wait to meet you!

Johnson Electric offers talented people like you the opportunity to grow professionally and personally, surrounded by some of the most dedicated, innovative, and entrepreneurial colleagues you will find anywhere. Of course, we offer competitive pay and benefits, and far more than that, we offer a culture driven by our values and designed to ensure that our most important asset—our people—can flourish.