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Automotive Program Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Challenge Manufacturing

Sr Program Manager

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$111K - $111K/yr

The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with strong launch discipline, technical understanding, and communication skills-capable of managing complex, high-volume automotive programs within a Tier 1 ...

Piston Automotive

Program Manager

Southfield, MI · On-site

Overview The Program Manager is a strategic thinker who will facilitate all program deliverables as ... Piston Automotive wasn't just founded to make things. It was founded to make things better. And ...

Piston Automotive

Program Manager

Southfield, MI

Overview The Program Manager is a strategic thinker who will facilitate all program deliverables as ... Piston Automotive wasn't just founded to make things. It was founded to make things better. And ...

Piston Automotive

Program Manager

Southfield, MI

The Program Manager is a strategic thinker who will facilitate all program deliverables as defined ... Piston Automotive wasn't just founded to make things. It was founded to make things better. And ...

RESRG Automotive

Site Program Manager

Portageville, MO · On-site

RESRG Automotive is seeking you to join our team as a Site Program Manager in our Portageville, Missouri facility! Your Job In this role, we are seeking an experience Program Manager with specialized ...

Waymo

Manufacturing Program Manager

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$230K - $284K/yr

Serve as the primary point of contact between Waymo and automotive supplier partners * Co-ordinate ... Monitor and manage program finances through diligent budget preparation and oversight * Lead ...

Affinitiv

Program Manager (Automotive OEM)

Tampa, FL

The Program Manager is responsible for implementing the strategy set by the Account Management team ... Experience in the automotive industry a plus * Experience providing software consulting services a ...

Minth North America

Program Manager

Wixom, MI · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

We are looking for a dynamic and driven candidate who is interested in joining a fast-growing global company in the automotive sector. Program Manager oversees projects within a program to ensure ...

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All JobsAutomotive Program Manager Jobs

Automotive Program Manager information

See salary details

$38.5K

$107.5K

$157K

How much do automotive program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive program manager in the United States is $107,460.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,500.00 and $132,500.00 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.

More about Automotive Program Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Automotive Program Manager jobs? Cities with the most Automotive Program Manager job openings:
What states have the most Automotive Program Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Automotive Program Manager jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Program Manager jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Program Manager jobs are:
Automotive Program Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Program Manager job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, and 52% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,460 per year, or $51.7 per hour.
Sr Program Manager

Sr Program Manager

Challenge Manufacturing

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

$111K - $111K/yr

Other

Posted 19 days ago

Challenge Manufacturing rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

492nd of 521 rated manufacturers

Job description

Who We Want:

We are seeking an experienced Senior Program Manager to lead key customer programs from concept through full production launch. This individual will manage cross-functional teams, ensuring program deliverables meet or exceed customer expectations in timing, quality, and cost. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with strong launch discipline, technical understanding, and communication skills-capable of managing complex, high-volume automotive programs within a Tier 1 manufacturing environment.

What You'll Do:

  • Lead assigned programs through all phases-concept, design, build, validation, launch, and handoff to production.
  • Manage all aspects of program timing, open issues, and deliverables to ensure successful launch execution.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact between Challenge and the customer for engineering, quality, and launch-related activities.
  • Coordinate cross-functional support from Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Finance teams.
  • Track and report program status using timing charts, KPI dashboards, and issue-tracking tools.
  • Identify risks early and implement corrective and preventive actions to maintain launch readiness.
  • Support financial tracking and cost management in partnership with Finance and Engineering.
  • Ensure APQP, PPAP, and related customer requirements are properly executed.
  • Conduct post-launch reviews and contribute to continuous improvement of launch processes.
  • Promote a culture of accountability, communication, and collaboration within program teams.

When and Where:
This will be a M-F position located at our Corporate Office in Walker, MI.
Occasionally, this may require you to arrive early, stay late, or work on weekends, outside of our regular hours, to ensure we successfully meet customer needs, deadlines, or urgent requests.

What You Need to Have:

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical/Controls, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering (or equivalent).
  • 7+ years of automotive experience, preferably in stamping, welding, or assembly operations.
  • 5+ years of program or project management experience in a Tier 1 automotive environment.
  • Demonstrated success managing multiple OEM customer programs.
  • Strong understanding of APQP, PPAP, PFMEA, Control Plans, and GD&T.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Project, Excel, PowerPoint, and Word, PLEX.
  • Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
  • Proven ability to manage competing priorities and drive results in fast-paced settings.
  • Ability to travel up to 50%

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master's degree in Engineering, Business, or Program Management.
  • PMP certification or equivalent.
  • Experience with Power BI, Smartsheet, or other digital launch tracking tools.
  • Exposure to EV platforms or next-generation vehicle programs.
  • Familiarity with multi-plant coordination and continuous improvement frameworks.

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