Program Manager for automotive supplier

Job Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated Program Manager to lead automotive interior programs from award through launch and production. This position serves as the primary liaison between the customer, internal cross-functional teams, and manufacturing operations to ensure successful execution of program objectives related to quality, cost, timing, and profitability.

The ideal candidate will have 3–5 years of automotive program management experience with direct OEM customer interaction and a proven track record of managing product launches in a Tier 1 or Tier 2 supplier environment.

Essential duties and responsibilities

• Facilitate the PMT process by calling the PMT meetings and Gate review meetings and following up on issues before and after the PMT meeting’s; Ensure proper Plant personnel are informed and attend
• Lead assigned customer programs
• Maintain all PM schedules and customer documents as required. Use the database when appropriate
• Translate customer program requirements into achievable program plans that satisfy both Piston Interiors and the customer. Inform customers in writing when program milestones are in jeopardy and provide recovery plans
• Ensure program meets cost targets for each build event and/or ensuring cost recovery for engineering changes
• Manage pre-production build events with timelines, material orders/trackers and sample requests to support build quantities/trackers
• Manage the engineering change process by tracking the associated quoting, PI, EO, tool completion, and plant readiness activities.
• Develop plans and track the completion of APQP and PPAP information
• Adhere to and promote the quality certification process
• Resolve cross-functional issues by taking charge and making timely decisions based on facts
• Maintain team stability by keeping the team focused on the appropriate issues and engage Piston Interiors management as required
• Use sound judgment and provide risk assessment/viable countermeasures to Piston Interiors PM management early enough to allow for proper assistance when required
• Active interface with OEM and Tier 1 customers and suppliers
• Visit customer locations & plants during major milestone events to support the teams when required. Some travel to Mexico and locally
• Participate in improving the Program Management Department by performing special projects and achieving agreed upon objectives
• Participate and drive to closure of cost savings and PIP projects, annually

Required Skill

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Supply Chain, or related field.
• 3–5 years of Program Management experience within a Tier 1 or Tier 2 automotive supplier.
• Experience managing programs for OEM customers such as Ford Motor Company, General Motors, or Stellantis.
• Knowledge of APQP, PPAP, FMEA, and automotive launch processes.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Experience leading cross-functional teams.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and customer-facing skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and project management tools.

Preferred

• PMP certification or equivalent project management training.
• Experience with automotive interiors, seating, trim, textiles, or soft goods.
• Familiarity with IATF 16949 and OEM customer-specific requirements.
• Experience managing multiple programs simultaneously.

This is a great opportunity for a driven and proactive professional who is eager to grow within a dynamic team. If you're a team player who thrives in a collaborative environment and enjoys customer-facing responsibilities, we’d love to hear from you.

We are an Affirmative Action/EEO employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability or veteran status.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:

• Program management: 3 years (Required)
• Automotive supplier: 3 years (Required)
• Seat or Interior trim: 3 years (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Pontiac, MI 48341 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Pontiac, MI 48341: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Pontiac, MI 48341