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Automotive Program Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Joyson Safety Systems

$115K - $116K/yr

Minimum7 years of automotive Program Management Experience.

Amphenol RF

Program Manager (Automotive)

Danbury, CT · On-site

The Program Manager directs and coordinates cross functional teams to execute program deliverables to meet customer milestones within an automotive phase gate process. Lead and direct cross ...

Amphenol RF

Program Manager (Automotive)

Danbury, CT · On-site

The Program Manager directs and coordinates cross functional teams to execute program deliverables to meet customer milestones within an automotive phase gate process. Lead and direct cross ...

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 ...

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 ...

Kendrick Plastics

Program Manager

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

About Kendrick Plastics Kendrick Plastics is a leading automotive supplier delivering high-quality ... Program Manager The Program Manager is responsible for leading automotive manufacturing programs ...

Kendrick Plastics

Program Manager

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

About Kendrick Plastics Kendrick Plastics is a leading automotive supplier delivering high-quality ... Program Manager The Program Manager is responsible for leading automotive manufacturing programs ...

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All JobsAutomotive Program 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 Jul 19, 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $107,460 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Program Manager - Automotive

Mitchell Plastics

Sterling Heights, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Put yourself in the driver's seat; imagine where a career here could take you.
Mitchell Plastics is an award-winning, growing company and a global leader in automotive interior solutions. Our strength comes from providing our worldwide automotive customers with a single-source solution for their interior plastic component needs - from concept through production.
With more than 2,800 innovative team members across 7 manufacturing locations throughout North America, we are committed to delivering world-class quality, advanced manufacturing capabilities, and innovative solutions that keep us at the forefront of the automotive industry.
At Mitchell Plastics, our people are the foundation of our success. We offer an exciting opportunity to join a growing "Best in Class" team where employees are supported through ongoing development, training, and opportunities for career advancement. We are always looking for driven, talented individuals who want to make an impact and grow with us.
Come join our Team, and learn first-hand how you can contribute to our "Innovation Inside"!
The Opportunity:
We are currently seeking a Program Manager to join our Corporate Engineering team. The successful candidate will be based out of our Sterling Heights location in Michigan.
Key Responsibilities:
Program management
  • Own all phases of awarded program development including program management, project engineering, prototype assembly, design, tooling, quoting, feasibility, change notice process, and pre-production sign-off
  • Maintain ultimate timing responsibility through all development phases, tracking program schedules and tool progress reports
  • Track and update all program-specific open issues and maintain visual program display boards, updated weekly
  • Lead regular APQP meetings; initiate program-specific meetings and ensure all discussions and approvals are properly recorded
  • Maintain program financial status by updating program quotations and balance sheets; ensure all documentation including POs, requisitions, and meeting minutes are current
  • Create and maintain all program information on the intranet; track incoming and outgoing data and maintain thorough program records

Design and development
  • Lead conceptual and detailed product design including benchmarking, subcontracting, data transfer, design review, and design validation; communicate design progress to the customer
  • Conduct weekly design reviews with the design team; schedule milestone design reviews with cross-functional stakeholders from manufacturing, quality, and management
  • Manage the validation and test process; ensure all customer DVP&R requirements are met and concerns are addressed via 8D methodology with findings documented on DFMEA, PFMEA, and control plans
  • Manage the paint development process and coordinate pre-production and run-at-rate trials with support from program engineers and the manufacturing paint engineer

Tooling and launch
  • Manage all tooling aspects of awarded programs; source capable molds, gauges, and fixtures; approve tools before shipping to plants and manage engineering changes to tools in production
  • Ensure all pre-production documentation, testing, drawings, process analysis, dimensional control, and capacity analysis are completed prior to launch; lead process sign-off and customer approval activities
  • Initiate feasibility studies for new programs; review and log all quotes per established procedure with sign-off from the Director of Engineering or General Manager

Our Ideal Candidate:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
  • 5+ years of experience in engineering interior decorative and functional automotive components for automotive suppliers
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Microsoft Project, and CAD software
  • Understanding of IATF 16949 quality and environmental management systems
  • Familiarity with OEM customer-specific requirements
  • Experience working directly with automotive OEMs
  • Willingness and ability to travel within the U.S., Canada, and Mexico as required

Job Details:
Employment Type: Full-time
Hours of Work: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday to Friday
Job Vacancy: This posting is to fill an upcoming open position
We thank all candidates for their interest, however only those who qualify for an interview will be contacted.

Apply