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Freelance Automotive Program Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's degree or equivalent from an accredited four‑year college or university * 2 to 4 years of automotive program management experience, including at least one successful program launch for a ...

Making automotive technology that is smarter, cleaner, safer and lighter. That's what we're ... The Manager, Program Management provides strategic and technical leadership to the Program ...

Making automotive technology that is smarter, cleaner, safer and lighter. That's what we're ... The Manager, Program Management provides strategic and technical leadership to the Program ...

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... Program Manager in the event of a pending milestone might be missed to establish "get well" plan and notify customer Main Tasks: · Understand macro automotive industry trends, how they affect ...

Automotive Accounts Manager Since 1934, Stabilus has offered components for diverse applications ... Customer Program Manager - coordinate activities with Program Manager in the event of a pending ...

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 ...

$115K - $116K/yr

Minimum7 years of automotive Program Management Experience.

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 ...

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Program Manager - Automotive

Troy, MI · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Empire Electronics is looking for a dynamic individual for growth and leadership opportunities in the automotive industry. This Program Manager will manage all aspects of assigned customers including ...

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Freelance Automotive Program Manager information

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$38.5K

$107.5K

$157K

How much do freelance automotive program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance 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 is a freelance automotive program manager?

A Freelance Automotive Program Manager is an independent professional who oversees and coordinates automotive projects or programs for clients, typically on a contract basis. They manage timelines, budgets, and resources to ensure successful delivery of automotive products or initiatives. Their responsibilities often include liaising between stakeholders, managing cross-functional teams, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Freelance program managers bring specialized expertise to automotive companies without the commitment of a full-time hire.

How does a freelance automotive program manager typically collaborate with clients and cross-functional teams during a project?

As a Freelance Automotive Program Manager, you'll often serve as the central point of coordination between clients and various internal and external teams, such as engineering, supply chain, design, and manufacturing. Effective communication and organization are key, as you'll facilitate project meetings, ensure all stakeholders are aligned on goals and timelines, and address any issues or changes quickly. Since the role is freelance, you may work remotely and use digital collaboration tools to stay connected, requiring strong self-management skills and adaptability to different client cultures and workflows.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance automotive program manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Automotive Program Manager, you need a strong background in automotive engineering or project management, often supported by industry experience and a relevant degree. Familiarity with project management tools like MS Project or Jira, and knowledge of automotive standards such as IATF 16949, are typically required. Exceptional organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills help you coordinate cross-functional teams and manage client relationships effectively. These competencies ensure successful project delivery, client satisfaction, and the ability to adapt in a dynamic, fast-paced automotive environment.
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What cities are hiring for Freelance Automotive Program Manager jobs?

Cities with the most Freelance Automotive Program Manager job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Program Manager jobs?

The most popular types of Automotive Program Manager jobs are:

What states have the most Freelance Automotive Program Manager jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freelance Automotive Program Manager jobs include:

Infographic showing various Freelance Automotive Program Manager job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. 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.

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US Farathane rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Job description

US Farathane is seeking Program Managers at our Corporate Tech Center to join our growing team! We have openings in our Ford, GM, Tiers, and New Domestics business units. Program Managers are responsible for the overall management of assigned customer product development programs, from program award through 90 days post Start of Production (SOP). This role requires strong leadership and coordination across cross functional teams, as well as direct interaction with all levels of internal leadership and OEM customer management. The Program Manager is accountable for planning, scheduling, organizing, directing, and controlling program execution to ensure flawless launches that meet timing, cost, and quality targets.
These positions sit fully on-site in our offices in either Auburn Hills or Sterling Heights, MI.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Establish and manage comprehensive program timelines with internal and external targets, objectives, and deliverables to support successful launches
  • Lead and manage assigned programs by planning, executing, and finalizing activities according to strict deadlines using program management tools to track budgets, open issues, APQP deliverables, and timing
  • Manage programs from award through 90 days post‑SOP
  • Coordinate the efforts of cross‑functional team members to deliver programs according to plan; collaborate closely with senior management and stakeholders
  • Support manufacturing teams during production builds, team meetings, plant‑based customer reviews, and critical production preparation activities
  • Achieve all internal and external financial targets for assigned programs
  • Obtain capital and tooling appropriations and releases; support capital forecast updates, business case updates, and cost‑reduction initiatives
  • Effectively communicate program expectations, milestones, risks, and status to team members and stakeholders in a timely and clear manner
  • Ensure US Farathane and customer deliverables are met relative to quality, timing, and cost
  • Manage program risk activities, proactively identify issues, and escalate concerns as required
  • Lead cross‑functional APQP activities and conduct required gate reviews; escalate risk issues for resolution
  • Proactively manage changes in project scope, identify potential risks, and develop contingency plans
  • Ensure program timelines are met and flawless launch metrics are applied to every program
  • Identify and resolve issues and conflicts within the program team
  • Conduct program executive reviews for US Farathane senior leadership
  • Support the development of best practices, standards, and tools for program execution and management
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited four‑year college or university
  • 2 to 4 years of automotive program management experience, including at least one successful program launch for a major OEM
  • Minimum 2 years of experience with a Tier One supplier and/or plastic injection or compression molded automotive products (preferred)
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including MS Project
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
  • Detail‑oriented, deadline‑driven, and results‑focused
  • An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered
US Farathane offers an impressive compensation and benefits package, including:
  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) with Company Match
  • Paid Holidays and Vacation
  • Job Promotional and Career Growth Opportunities
  • And much more!

About US Farathane
US Farathane has been a leading plastics manufacturer serving the automotive industry for over 50 years. Through advanced research and development, a highly experienced management team, and a dedicated workforce, US Farathane continues to grow year over year.
We provide customers with full‑service solutions ranging from black‑box design concepts to highly engineered composites, TPEs, TPOs, and specialized extrusion and compression technologies.
Additional Information
  • Interested applicants must submit their resume through our Applicant Tracking System for consideration.
  • Due to the high volume of applications received, only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.
  • Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.
  • Unsolicited resumes from search firms or employment agencies will not be paid a fee and become the property of US Farathane.
  • US Farathane is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled individuals and veterans.

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