Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP), Automotive Assembly, Automotive Industry, Automotive Manufacturing, Change Management, Communication Skills, Component Assembly, Continuous Improvement, Cross-Functional, Customer Relations, Develop and Maintain Customers, Documentation, Documentation Plan, Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), Functional Programming Languages, Injection Molding, Machine Tool, Manufacturing, Manufacturing Operations, Manufacturing Requirements, Metrics, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office, Microsoft PowerPoint, Multitasking, OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer), Operational Support, Organizational Skills, Painting (Facilities and Maintenance), Performance Metrics, Problem Solving Skills, Product Programs, Product/Service Launch, Production Part Approval Process (PPAP), Production Systems, Production Volume, Project Management Professional (PMP), Project Schedule, Project/Program Management, Purchasing/Procurement, Risk Analysis, Team Lead/Manager, Time Management
Title: Program Manager – Automotive Manufacturing
Location: Atlanta, GA Region
Position Overview
A growing automotive manufacturing organization is seeking a Program Manager to lead new product launches and customer-focused manufacturing programs within a high-volume production environment. This individual will be responsible for managing cross-functional programs from concept through launch while serving as a key liaison between customers, engineering, operations, and manufacturing teams.
This is a highly visible, hands-on role supporting complex manufacturing programs involving molded, painted, and assembled components. The position requires strong communication, urgency, problem-solving ability, and the capability to drive projects forward within a fast-paced automotive environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead new product launch programs from concept through production launch
- Manage customer-facing program activity, timelines, deliverables, and project status updates
- Coordinate APQP activities including FMEA, Control Plans, PPAP documentation, and launch readiness
- Partner cross-functionally with engineering, quality, operations, tooling, purchasing, and manufacturing teams
- Drive issue resolution related to timing, engineering changes, quality concerns, and production readiness
- Develop and maintain detailed project schedules, risk assessments, and recovery plans
- Support continuous improvement initiatives tied to program execution and operational performance
- Manage program communication internally and externally while maintaining strong customer relationships
- Track and report program KPIs, milestones, open issues, and launch metrics
- Support change management processes and ensure program documentation remains accurate and up to date
- Assist with supplier coordination and subcontractor communication as needed
- Participate in customer meetings, launch reviews, and manufacturing readiness discussions
- Support plant operations during critical launch windows and production ramp-ups
Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Manufacturing, or related field preferred
Experience
- 3+ years of Program Management experience within manufacturing or automotive environments
- Experience managing customer-facing manufacturing programs and product launches
- Experience supporting APQP, PPAP, FMEA, and launch-related activities
- Experience working within high-volume manufacturing operations
- Experience coordinating cross-functional teams and managing project timelines
- Automotive industry experience strongly preferred
Technical Skills
- Strong understanding of manufacturing operations and product launch processes
- Experience working with APQP methodologies and automotive customer requirements
- Ability to manage multiple priorities within a fast-paced environment
- Strong communication, presentation, and organizational skills
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite including Excel, PowerPoint, and Project
- Ability to read and interpret engineering documentation and manufacturing requirements
Preferred Qualifications
- Injection molding manufacturing experience preferred
- Experience supporting painted or assembled automotive components preferred
- PMP certification is a plus
- Experience interfacing directly with OEM automotive customers is highly preferred
Benefits
- Health Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Paid Time Off
- Retirement Benefits
- Relocation Assistance Available
If you are interested in this position, please apply here or send your resume to matthew@mrrecruiter.com.
Equal Opportunity Employer Disclaimer
This organization is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Employment decisions are based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs.
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