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Automotive Program Manager Jobs in Athens, GA (NOW HIRING)

New Car Sales Manager

Athens, GA · On-site

$75 - $100/hr

O'Steen Automotive Group | Athens, GANew Ownership. New Energy. Unlimited Opportunity. The future ... Manage inventory and manufacturer programs. * Monitor KPIs and implement strategies for continued ...

Part Sales Manager - Full Time

Hoschton, GA · On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

Automotive Retail: Previous experience in automotive retail * Certifications: Automotive Service ... AutoZoners Living Well Program for free mental health support * Opportunities for career growth ...

Part Sales Manager - Full Time

Greensboro, GA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Automotive Retail: Previous experience in automotive retail * Certifications: Automotive Service ... AutoZoners Living Well Program for free mental health support * Opportunities for career growth ...

Part Sales Manager - Full Time

Eatonton, GA · On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Automotive Retail: Previous experience in automotive retail * Certifications: Automotive Service ... AutoZoners Living Well Program for free mental health support * Opportunities for career growth ...

Automotive Retail: Previous experience in automotive retail * Certifications: Automotive Service ... AutoZoners Living Well Program for free mental health support * Opportunities for career growth ...

Part Sales Manager - Full Time

Athens, GA · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Automotive Retail: Previous experience in automotive retail * Certifications: Automotive Service ... AutoZoners Living Well Program for free mental health support * Opportunities for career growth ...

Part Sales Manager - Full Time

Madison, GA · On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

Automotive Retail: Previous experience in automotive retail * Certifications: Automotive Service ... AutoZoners Living Well Program for free mental health support * Opportunities for career growth ...

Part Sales Manager - Full Time

Flowery Branch, GA · On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

Automotive Retail: Previous experience in automotive retail * Certifications: Automotive Service ... AutoZoners Living Well Program for free mental health support * Opportunities for career growth ...

Showing results 21-40

Automotive Program Manager information

See Athens, GA salary details

$37.2K

$103.8K

$151.6K

How much do automotive program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive program manager in Athens, GA is $103,762.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,800.00 and $127,900.00 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 Athens, GA?

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

What cities near Athens, GA are hiring for Automotive Program Manager jobs?

Cities near Athens, GA with the most Automotive Program Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Automotive Program Manager job openings in Athens, GA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, and 53% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,762 per year, or $49.9 per hour.

Sr. Production Engineering Manager

Astemo Ltd.

Monroe, GA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Key Responsibilities

Production Engineering Leadership

  • Lead and develop a team of Production Engineers supporting machining, plastic molding, assembly, and test operations.
  • Set directional strategy for production engineering aligned with plant safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives.
  • Build a strong engineering culture focused on accountability, continuous improvement, and technical excellence.


Manufacturing Support

  • Oversee manufacturing processes, including precision aluminum and steel machining, plastic injection molding, mechanical assembly, ECU programming, and functional testing.
  • Ensure robust process design, line balancing, error‑proofing (poka‑yoke), and automation to support high‑volume, high‑quality production.
  • Support manufacturability for aluminum housings, gear mechanisms, pump mechanisms, and electronic control integration.


New Product Launch & Production Readiness

  • Lead production readiness for new product launches including process validation, PFMEA, control plans, run‑at‑rate, and capacity confirmation.
  • Partner with Product Design Engineering, Quality Assurance, and Program Management to transition products from development to mass production.
  • Review and approve engineering changes related to process, tooling, and equipment.


Capital Projects & Equipment Strategy

  • Develop and manage capital budgets for new equipment, automation, and line expansions.
  • Lead capital projects from concept through installation, commissioning, and handover to operations.
  • Collaborate with equipment suppliers and integrators for assembly, testing, and traceability systems.


Continuous Improvement & Cost Reduction

  • Drive Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen, and problem‑solving initiatives to improve productivity, quality, and throughput.
  • Lead root‑cause analysis for production losses, quality escapes, and customer concerns related to steering systems.
  • Identify and implement cost‑reduction opportunities without compromising safety or quality.


Cross‑Functional Collaboration

  • Partner closely with Operations, Quality, Maintenance, Supply Chain, and Safety teams to achieve plant KPIs.
  • Support customer audits, internal audits, and technical reviews related to power steering manufacturing.
  • Act as the primary engineering escalation point for complex production issues.


Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or related).
  • 10+ years of experience in manufacturing or production engineering within the automotive or Tier‑1 supplier industry.
  • 5+ years of people‑management experience leading engineering teams.
  • Strong knowledge of high‑volume manufacturing processes for electromechanical and mechanical products.
  • Experience with Lean Manufacturing, PFMEA, Control Plans, and IATF 16949 requirements.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in Engineering or Business Administration.
  • Experience with Hydraulic Pumps, Electronic Power Steering (EPS), steer‑by‑wire, or advanced steering systems for automobiles.
  • Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification.
  • Familiarity with automated assembly, end‑of‑line functional testing, and traceability systems.


Key Skills & Competencies

  • Strong leadership and decision‑making ability
  • Data‑driven problem solving
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment
  • Hands‑on technical mindset with strategic perspective


SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Manage Production Engineering Associates, including hiring, training, counseling and discipline, performance appraisal, and assigning/prioritizing all work for subordinates.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Required to sit or stand and move about the facility. Occasional lifting of items not to exceed 50 lbs.


WORK ENVIRONMENT

Combination of office and plant environment. May be required to use safety glasses and wear steel toe shoes while performing specific tasks or while in specific manufacturing areas.