PURPOSE: We are seeking an experienced Automotive Project Manager to lead new product development projects from concept through production launch. This role serves as the primary liaison between customers and internal cross-functional teams, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and in accordance with quality, safety, and customer requirements. The ideal candidate is a strong communicator with a proven background in automotive manufacturing and project management.
RESPONSIBILITIES:- Lead cross-functional product development projects from initiation through production launch.
- Serve as the primary point of contact between customers and internal project teams.
- Develop, maintain, and communicate project plans, schedules, budgets, and milestones.
- Coordinate engineering, manufacturing, quality, purchasing, and operations to ensure successful project execution.
- Monitor project progress, identify risks, and implement corrective actions to maintain timelines and deliverables.
- Ensure compliance with customer specifications, quality standards, and applicable safety requirements.
- Facilitate customer meetings, project reviews, and status updates.
- Support change management activities, including engineering changes and scope adjustments.
- Track project costs, resources, and performance metrics to achieve project objectives.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives throughout the project lifecycle.
QUALIFICATIONS:- Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related technical field required.
- Minimum of five (5) years of project management experience within an automotive manufacturing environment.
- Experience managing new product development or product launch projects.
- Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage multiple projects simultaneously..
REQUIRED SKILLS:- Strong project management and organizational skills.
- Excellent customer relationship management and communication abilities.
- Experience with project scheduling, budgeting, and risk management.
- Knowledge of automotive manufacturing processes and product development.
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings and technical documentation.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and project management software.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
PREFERRED SKILLS:- Experience in a Tier 1 automotive supplier environment.
- Familiarity with APQP, PPAP, FMEA, and automotive quality standards.
- Knowledge of IATF 16949 and ISO 9001 requirements.
- Experience leading product launches and cross-functional project teams.
- PMP certification or equivalent project management certification is a plus.
- Lean Manufacturing or Continuous Improvement experience is preferred.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:- Work is normally performed in an office, laboratory, manufacturing floor, or machine shop setting where physical work includes, but is not limited to sitting, standing, reaching, kneeling, bending, and lifting up to 25 lbs.
- Must be able to understand and comply with all relevant safety practices
FLSA STATUS/WORKING SCHEDULE:- Location:Elkmont,AL
- Schedule: Day shift, 40h/w, weekend as required
- Overtime: as required
- Assignment Start: ASAP
DISCLAIMER:This job description is a high-level overview of general expectations of this position. It is not intended to list every responsibility of the position, nor does it represent an employment contract of any kind.
