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Automotive Project Manager Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

... industrial, automotive, government and aerospace applications. We are the people behind the ... Overview We are seeking a motivated, detail-oriented entry-level Project Manager to support project ...

... industrial, automotive, government and aerospace applications. We are the people behind the ... Overview We are seeking a motivated, detail-oriented entry-level Project Manager to support project ...

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Automotive Project Manager information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$42.1K

$112.3K

$177.1K

How much do automotive project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive project manager in Santa Rosa, CA is $112,265.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,800.00 and $134,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an automotive project manager?

Automotive Project Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the planning, execution, and completion of projects within the automotive industry. They coordinate between different teams, such as engineering, design, manufacturing, and quality assurance, to ensure that automotive projects—like new vehicle development or component launches—are completed on time, within budget, and to required specifications. Their role involves managing schedules, budgets, risks, and communication among stakeholders to deliver successful project outcomes.

How do automotive project managers coordinate with cross-functional teams during vehicle development projects?

Automotive Project Managers often serve as the central point of communication between engineering, design, manufacturing, procurement, and quality assurance teams. They facilitate regular meetings to track progress, identify dependencies, and resolve any roadblocks that may arise. Effective coordination involves aligning diverse stakeholder goals, managing timelines, and ensuring that all departments have the resources and information needed to meet project milestones. This collaborative approach is crucial to delivering vehicles on schedule and within budget, while also maintaining high quality standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automotive project manager?

To thrive as an Automotive Project Manager, you need a strong understanding of automotive engineering principles, project management methodologies, and typically a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Project, automotive design software (e.g., CATIA), and certifications such as PMP or Six Sigma are highly valuable. Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help in coordinating cross-functional teams and managing stakeholder expectations. These skills ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards in the fast-paced automotive industry.

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

AspectAutomotive Project ManagerAutomotive Engineer
CredentialsProject management certifications, relevant automotive experienceEngineering degrees (BSc, MSc), technical certifications
Work EnvironmentProject teams, cross-functional departments, management settingsDesign labs, R&D departments, manufacturing facilities
Industry UsageOversees automotive projects, manages timelines and budgetsDevelops vehicle components, conducts testing and design

While both roles are integral to the automotive industry, an Automotive Project Manager focuses on coordinating projects, timelines, and teams, whereas an Automotive Engineer is involved in the technical design and development of vehicle systems. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job focus within the automotive sector.

What are popular job titles related to Automotive Project Manager jobs in Santa Rosa, CA?

For Automotive Project Manager jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Automotive Project Manager jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Automotive Project Manager jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Automotive Project Manager jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Automotive Project Manager job openings:

Project Manager

Santa Rosa, CA

Viavi Solutions
Telecommunications • 1 - 5K employees

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Summary:

VIAVI (NASDAQ: VIAV) is a global provider of network test, monitoring and assurance solutions for telecommunications, cloud, enterprises, first responders, military, aerospace, and railway. VIAVI is also a leader in light management technologies for 3D sensing, anti-counterfeiting, consumer electronics, industrial, automotive, government and aerospace applications.
We are the people behind the products that help keep the world connected at home, school, work, at play, and everywhere in between. VIAVI employees are passionate about supporting customer success and we welcome people who bring their best every day to the company - to question, to collaborate and to push for solutions that will delight our customers.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Overview

We are seeking a motivated, detail-oriented entry-level Project Manager to support project execution within our manufacturing environment. This role works closely with engineering, manufacturing, and cross-functional teams to help plan, coordinate, and track projects from concept through production. It's an excellent opportunity for someone early in their project management career who wants hands-on exposure to product development, process engineering, and manufacturing operations.

Key Responsibilities

Project Coordination & Execution

  • Develop and drive the planning, scheduling, budgets and execution of projects which span from proof-of-concept to high-volume production in collaboration with engineers.
  • Manage the transition of new products or processes from engineering/R&D into manufacturing.
  • Coordinate with suppliers and vendors to support timely procurement and delivery of materials and equipment.
  • Track project milestones and flag schedule or budget risks to stakeholders and senior staff.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

  • Partner with process and manufacturing engineers to keep projects aligned with requirements and timelines.
  • Review specifications, contracts, and drawings to confirm project scope is accurately reflected in plans.
  • Translate updates from subject matter experts into clear status reports for stakeholders.

Documentation & Reporting

  • Maintain up-to-date project documentation, including schedules, budgets, and status reports.
  • Prepare regular progress updates for management and stakeholders.
  • Support tracking of project costs and variances against budget.
  • Apply structured PM tools and methods (e.g., integrated schedules, PFMEA/DFMEA, Design/Project Reviews).

Communication & Issue Resolution

  • Act as a day-to-day point of contact between engineering, manufacturing, and project stakeholders.
  • Facilitate project meetings, ensuring clear notes, action item assignment and follow-up on open items.
  • Identification of project risks and development of mitigation plans alongside senior project management.
  • Escalate issues appropriately and help drive timely resolution.

    Pre-Requisites / Skills / Experience Requirements:

    Required

    • Associate's degree in Business, Engineering, or related field, or 2+ years of relevant project coordination/management experience.
    • Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to translate project details for varied audiences.
    • Highly organized, with the ability to manage multiple tasks/deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
    • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel; familiarity with Microsoft Project a plus.
    • Detail-oriented with solid analytical and problem-solving skills.

    Preferred

    • Prior exposure to a manufacturing, production, or engineering environment (internship experience counts).
    • Familiarity with NPI / Stage-Gate product development processes.
    • Coursework or certification in project management (e.g., CAPM, PMP-track).

    If you have what it takes to push boundaries and seize opportunities, apply to join our team today.

    VIAVI Solutions is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer - minorities/females/veterans/persons with disabilities.

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    ITAR:

    This position requires use of information which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). All applicants must be U.S. Persons within the meaning of ITAR. ITAR defines a U.S. Person as a U.S. Citizen or National, U.S. Lawful Permanent Resident (i.e. 'Green Card Holder'), Political Asylee, Refugee, or Temporary Resident granted amnesty.

    Job Posting Pay Range:

    66,500

    to

    123,500

    Exceptional qualifications, experience and location may impact salary. VIAVI offers a competitive benefits package that includes paid time off, health, life and disability insurance, 401(k), and a bonus program.