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Automotive Program Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Amphenol HSIO

Program Manager

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

... and automotive. Position: Program Manager Location: Chicago, IL Amphenol Communications Solutions (ACS), a division of Amphenol Corporation, is a world leader in interconnect solutions for ...

Flex

Program Manager - Medical Devices

Buffalo Grove, IL

$87K - $120K/yr

The " Program Manager " will be based in Buffalo Grove, IL reporting to the Manager of Program ... Above experience must be out of medical device manufacturing or automotive manufacturing. * Must be ...

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All JobsAutomotive Program JobsAutomotive Program Manager JobsAutomotive Program Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL

Automotive Program Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$39.7K

$110.7K

$161.7K

How much do automotive program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive program manager in Chicago, IL is $110,700.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,900.00 and $136,500.00 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 Chicago, IL? For Automotive Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Automotive Program Manager jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Automotive Program Manager job openings:
Automotive Program Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Program Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,700 per year, or $53.2 per hour.

Director, Program Management

Abrazo Group

Elk Grove Village, IL • On-site

$150K - $170K/yr

Other

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Our client, a leading gaming and entertainment products company in Elk Grove Village, IL is seeking a Director of Program Management to lead complex product development, manufacturing launch, and retail readiness programs.


As the company continues to expand its product portfolio and manufacturing operations, they are seeking an experienced Director of Program Management to lead enterprise wide program execution across engineering, manufacturing, operations, supply chain, and new product introduction.


This leader will own the PMO function, ensuring complex product development programs move efficiently from concept through production launch while maintaining alignment across engineering, manufacturing, quality, procurement, operations, and executive leadership.


The ideal candidate comes directly from an automotive manufacturing environment, bringing extensive experience leading Program Management or PMO organizations responsible for new product launches, manufacturing readiness, supplier coordination, and cross functional execution.


This is a mandatory onsite leadership position located in greater Chicago, Illinois.


Ideal Background


We are specifically seeking candidates with leadership experience from:

  • Automotive OEM manufacturing
  • Tier 1 automotive suppliers
  • Automotive Program Management Office (PMO)
  • Manufacturing Operations
  • New Product Introduction (NPI)
  • Vehicle or product launch management
  • High volume manufacturing
  • Coupled with SDLC or Software Development


Ideal employers include organizations such as Ford, GM, Stellantis, Toyota, Honda, Rivian, Tesla, Lucid, Magna, Bosch, Denso, Lear, Aptiv, Adient, ZF, or similarly complex manufacturing organizations.


Preferred Qualifications


  • 10+ years leading complex manufacturing programs within automotive manufacturing
  • Experience managing enterprise PMO organizations or large cross functional program portfolios
  • Expertise in APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans, Change Management, Production Launch, and Manufacturing Readiness
  • Strong knowledge of engineering change management and supplier launch coordination
  • Experience partnering with Manufacturing, Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality, and Operations leadership
  • Demonstrated success improving PMO processes, governance, and launch execution
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations, Supply Chain, or related field
  • PMP certification preferred but not required


Who will be successful


The ideal candidate is a hands on manufacturing leader who thrives in fast paced product development environments. They know how to bring structure, accountability, and execution discipline to complex manufacturing organizations while partnering effectively with engineering, operations, and executive leadership. They understand that successful product launches depend on aligning engineering, manufacturing, suppliers, quality, and production long before the first unit reaches the production floor.


Education


Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, Business, Product Development, or a related field is preferred. Equivalent hands on experience in manufacturing leadership, product launch, technical program management, or operations leadership will also be considered.


Why This Role Matters


This role is critical to bringing complex entertainment products to market with stronger alignment, better launch discipline, and cleaner execution. The Director of Program Management will help connect creative product development with manufacturing reality, ensuring new products are launched on time, with clear ownership, quality, and readiness across the organization.


This is a full time, onsite leadership opportunity located in Elk Grove Village, Illinois, offering a competitive base salary range of $150,000 - $170,000, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to help shape the future of a growing manufacturing organization.

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