1

Automotive Program Manager Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Automotive industry experience is strongly preferred. Experience managing customer‑facing executive relationships. Your mission, roles and responsibilities The Program Director is responsible for ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Automotive Program Manager information

See Tennessee salary details

$34.9K

$97.5K

$142.5K

How much do automotive program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive program manager in Tennessee is $97,533.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,200.00 and $120,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an automotive program manager do?

An Automotive Program Manager oversees the planning, execution, and delivery of automotive projects, such as vehicle development or component integration. They coordinate cross-functional teams, manage timelines and budgets, and ensure that project goals align with company objectives and customer requirements. Their role involves communicating with stakeholders, mitigating risks, and ensuring that quality standards are met throughout the project lifecycle.

What are some typical challenges faced by automotive program managers when coordinating cross-functional teams?

Automotive Program Managers often encounter challenges such as aligning the goals and timelines of diverse teams, including engineering, manufacturing, procurement, and quality assurance. Coordinating these groups requires strong communication and negotiation skills to resolve conflicts and keep projects on schedule. Additionally, managing changes in project scope—often due to evolving customer requirements or regulatory updates—demands adaptability and effective risk management. Building strong relationships and maintaining transparency with all stakeholders is key to overcoming these hurdles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automotive program manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automotive Program Manager, you need expertise in project management, automotive engineering principles, and a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with project management software (like MS Project), automotive design tools (such as CAD), and relevant certifications (such as PMP) is often required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential for managing cross-functional teams and meeting project deadlines. These skills ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet quality standards in a highly competitive industry.

What is the difference between Automotive Program Manager vs Automotive Engineer?

AspectAutomotive Program ManagerAutomotive Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Business or related field; PMP or project management certifications often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Electrical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license optional
Work EnvironmentProject teams, cross-functional departments, management meetingsDesign labs, testing facilities, R&D departments
Employer & Industry UsageAutomotive manufacturers, suppliers, and OEMsAutomotive manufacturers, R&D centers, engineering firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding project management roles in automotive industryUnderstanding engineering roles in automotive development

Automotive Program Managers focus on overseeing vehicle development projects, coordinating teams, and ensuring timely delivery. Automotive Engineers are involved in designing, testing, and improving vehicle components. Both roles are essential in the automotive industry but differ in responsibilities and focus areas.

What are popular job titles related to Automotive Program Manager jobs in Tennessee?

For Automotive Program Manager jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Automotive Program Manager jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Automotive Program Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Automotive Program Manager job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $97,533 per year, or $46.9 per hour.

Launch Manager

Rebo Lighting & Electronics, LLC

Sparta, TN • On-site

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Description
What’s most important to you?  A fast-paced, dynamic workplace with good teamwork?  Having autonomy to grow your career?  Or making a meaningful impact? 
How about all of the above?  If you’re nodding, we are looking for you to join Team Rebo as a Launch Manager!
A BIT ABOUT US
We are Rebo, and we provide interior and exterior automotive and electronics lighting solutions – both traditional and new concepts that we are excited to design and make!  We are developing new technologies which help drive the future of electric vehicles, including charge status indicators as well as using light in new ways to improve safety and design.  The opportunities to solve both practical customer needs and deliver enhanced features are endless.
Here, you'll discover that we aim to help turn your passion into a rewarding profession. We value your hard work, integrity and commitment to make things better and we put our people first by offering benefits that support your life and well-being.  We strive to create a culture of learning and opportunity, and most importantly, an environment where you can feel connected to your work every day.  We have our sights set on exciting things ahead, and we need top talent like YOU to help us get there!
HOW YOU’LL MAKE AN IMPACT
  • Lead plant-level launch execution by coordinating cross-functional and program resources to ensure smooth production ramp-up, achievement of cycle time targets, and successful attainment of program launch objectives.
  • Plan, coordinate, and execute all build events, including Run at Rate (R@R) validation and pilot builds, ensuring manufacturing readiness and milestone achievement.
  • Drive accountability across plant operation, engineering, quality, logistics, purchasing, AME, AQE ensuring timely completion of launch deliverables and adherence to launch glidepaths.
  • Develop, implement, and manage production “power build” and capacity ramp-up plans to ensure manufacturing readiness and full capacity alignment with customer demand at SOP and beyond.
  • Identify, track, and eliminate launch-related barriers that may impact production readiness, quality, cost, or delivery performance.
  • Lead the Launch Readiness Review (LRR) meetings with cross functional team to validate launch preparedness and securing launch approval for production start-up.
  • Monitor launch budget, cost, and financial performance.
  • Coordinate logistics readiness activities in alignment with program gate requirements, ensuring material flow, packaging, and supply chain readiness ensuring compliance with program gate requirements.
  • Prepare and publish launch performance reports for up to three months post-SOP to communicate launch status, risks, and corrective actions to all stakeholders.
  • Consolidated and maintained comprehensive plant launch dashboards and reporting systems, providing visibility into program readiness, risk mitigation activities, and launch progress.
  • Drive accountability across cross-functional teams to ensure timely completion of all launch-related deliverables and adherence to program timing commitments.
  • Support continuous improvement of launch processes, tools, and best practices to improve future program execution performance.
YOUR KEY ATTRIBUTES
  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, or a related field.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in a automotive manufacturing plant environment.
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience in Program Management, Advanced Quality Planning (APQP), or launch management roles. Prior BMW experience highly desired.
  • Demonstrated experience as a core team member in at least one full automotive product or program launch within a manufacturing plant.
  • Familiarity with automotive program management tools, launch tracking systems, and structured launch methodologies.
  • Working knowledge of APQP,PPAP, automotive quality standards, and production readiness requirements.
  • Understanding of material planning, logistics coordination, and supply chain readiness for production launches.
  • Experience leading cross-functional teams and coordinating activities across engineering, manufacturing, quality, and supply chain functions.
  • Strong organizational, planning, and problem-solving skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Excellent communication and leadership skills with the ability to drive accountability across all levels of the organization.
  • Experience in team leadership or supervisory roles is preferred..
BE ON TEAM REBO, AND YOU’LL ENJOY
  • A competitive salary and benefits package with the opportunity to advance
  • We offer an inclusive environment that encourages diverse perspectives and ideas
  • Matching 401k
  • Employee discounts
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • …and SO much more!

Powered by JazzHR

q49tKbqm7O