The Senior Launch Engineer is a key member of the Body Shop Launch organization and is directly involved in the Launch Quality Operating System (LQOS) and the Volvo Product Development System (VPDS). The role supports the launch program from Virtual Build through SOP +90 days, translating program requirements into stable, production-ready execution within A Shop. Reporting to the Head of Launch, this position provides senior technical leadership across launch activities, drives cross-functional alignment, and ensures that risks, open issues, resources, and deliverables are managed with the urgency and discipline required for a successful production launch.
What you'll do- Launch ownership - Lead assigned Body Shop launch workstreams and ensure launch requirements are understood, planned, executed, tracked, and closed in line with LQOS and program timing.
- Production readiness - Drive readiness from Virtual Build through SOP +90 by identifying gaps, defining countermeasures, escalating risks, and confirming sustainable handover to the production organization.
- Cross-functional integration - Work closely with Launch, Manufacturing Engineering, Production, Quality, Maintenance, Logistics, Product/Program teams, and other stakeholders to ensure decisions and actions are aligned across functions.
- Issue leadership - Lead structured resolution of launch issues using facts, data, clear ownership, due dates, and escalation when required. Maintain focus on root cause, containment, permanent corrective action, and verification of effectiveness.
- Launch health reporting - Provide accurate, concise input to Body Shop Launch Health reporting, including status, risks, actions, decisions needed, and recovery plans for launch-related items.
- Quality and process stability - Support achievement of launch quality, process capability, production stability, and repeatability by ensuring identified concerns are addressed before they become sustained production losses.
- Planning and prioritization - Organize work, priorities, and available resources so short- and long-term launch objectives are delivered efficiently and critical-path activities remain visible.
- Senior technical direction - Provide practical production-based input and direction on Body Shop launch topics and support sound decision-making with clear technical judgment.
- Operational handover - Ensure launch deliverables, open-item ownership, standards, and lessons learned are transferred effectively to the receiving production organization.
- Leadership and culture - Model the aspired Volvo Cars culture through collaboration, accountability, transparency, respect, and a strong commitment to safe and sustainable business results.
- Compliance and governance - Operate in accordance with applicable legal requirements, company compliance standards, delegated authorities, processes, procedures, and instructions.
What you'll bring- Demonstrated experience in an active manufacturing production environment, with strong working knowledge of at least one area such as Stamping, Body-in-White, Paint & Plastic, TCF, Quality, or MP&L.
- Hands-on project management and/or vehicle launch experience with the ability to manage multiple priorities, risks, stakeholders, and deadlines.
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making capability in a fast-paced production environment.
- Ability to lead through influence, communicate clearly across functions and levels, and drive accountability without losing collaboration.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Project.
- High school diploma or GED.
Preferred- Bachelor's degree in engineering or a related technical discipline, or equivalent relevant experience.
- Broad Body Shop / BIW manufacturing knowledge and prior experience supporting production ramp-up, launch readiness, or operational handover.
- Experience presenting complex launch status, risks, and technical topics to senior leadership in a concise, decision-oriented format.
Other DutiesThis job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Let's Talk Benefits- Join Volvo Cars and enjoy a comprehensive range of benefits designed with you in mind. Our programs offer choice, flexibility, and exceptional value, including competitive medical, dental, and vision plans, tax-advantaged savings accounts, and a wellness program with discounts and gifts, most of which start on day one of employment. You'll also have access to voluntary benefits and a robust retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
- As part of our commitment to your well-being, we offer The Family Bond by Volvo Cars, a global paid parental leave policy covering all employees, including adoptive, permanent care foster, and surrogate parents. Additionally, employees and their eligible family members can lease a new Volvo at discounted rates through the Volvo Employee Lease Program (VELP). At Volvo Cars, our benefits extend beyond the workplace to enhance your life and support your family.
