The Project Chief for Body Closures will oversee and lead the design, development, and implementation of body closure components, including doors, hoods, liftgates, and window/sealing systems for a vehicle line.
This role will be responsible for managing cross-functional teams to ensure the timely delivery of high-quality products that meet customer specifications, regulatory requirements, and cost objectives. The PC will drive continuous improvements in product design, process efficiency, and cost control while maintaining strong communication with both internal and external stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities:
Project Leadership:
Lead the overall planning, execution, and delivery of body closure projects from concept through production, ensuring adherence to timeline, budget, and quality standards.
Cross-Functional Coordination:
Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, quality, supply chain, and other internal departments to ensure seamless project execution and successful product launches.
Design and Development Oversight:
Oversee the design and development of body closure components, ensuring they meet specifications, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.
Supplier Management:
Manage relationships with external suppliers, ensuring the timely delivery of materials and components. Collaborate on the selection of suppliers and monitor their performance to ensure quality and cost efficiency.
Risk Management:
Identify potential risks to project timelines, budgets, and quality, and take proactive measures to mitigate these risks. Ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
Process Optimization:
Continuously evaluate and improve development and production processes to optimize efficiency, cost, and quality.
Change Management:
Lead and mentor a team of engineers to optimize, process and implement change through the development phase.
Customer Focus:
Engage engineers to ensure designs meet or exceed customer expectations through validation, benchmarking and clinics.
Reporting and Documentation:
Maintain detailed project documentation and regularly report project status, including timelines and technical challenges, to senior management.
Basic Qualifications:
Minimum of a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical Engineering or a related degree field
Minimum of 8 years of experience in automotive engineering
In-depth knowledge of body closure systems (doors, hoods, tailgates, etc.), materials, manufacturing processes, and assembly techniques
Ability to analyze complex technical issues and drive solutions, while maintaining a focus on cost, quality, and schedule
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with senior management, engineering teams, suppliers, and customers
Proficient in CAD software (e.g., CATIA, Siemens NX), PLM systems, and MS Office Suite
Preferred Qualifications:
Master of Science Degree in Engineering
Experience with FEA (Finite Element Analysis) and other simulation tools
Strong project management skills with experience in leading multi-disciplinary teams and managing complex projects. PMP or similar certification