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Freelance Automotive Program Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Making automotive technology that is smarter, cleaner, safer and lighter. That's what we're ... The Program Manager (PM) is responsible for program management throughout the entire product life ...

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 ...

Coplas Inc. an affiliate of Tiercon Corp. is an automotive supplier committed to the design ... Reporting to the Engineering, the Program Manager would develop and maintain programs from ...

Coplas Inc. an affiliate of Tiercon Corp. is an automotive supplier committed to the design ... Reporting to the Engineering, the Program Manager would develop and maintain programs from ...

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Education: · Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Business, required Experience: · Four (4) or more years of experience in Project or Program Management, launch of automotive business initiatives ...

Coplas Inc. an affiliate of Tiercon Corp. is an automotive supplier committed to the design ... Reporting to the Engineering, the Program Manager would develop and maintain programs from ...

Project Management Professional (PMP) preferred * 5-7 years of experience in Automotive Sales, Engineering or Operations Management; 2+ years of experience in Tier 1 Automotive Project/Program ...

Project Management Professional (PMP) preferred * 5-7 years of experience in Automotive Sales, Engineering or Operations Management; 2+ years of experience in Tier 1 Automotive Project/Program ...

Project Management Professional (PMP) preferred * 5-7 years of experience in Automotive Sales, Engineering or Operations Management; 2+ years of experience in Tier 1 Automotive Project/Program ...

Project Management Professional (PMP) preferred * 5-7 years of experience in Automotive Sales, Engineering or Operations Management; 2+ years of experience in Tier 1 Automotive Project/Program ...

Making automotive technology that is smarter, cleaner, safer and lighter. That's what we're ... Own and manage assigned programs across the full product lifecycle, including quoting, program ...

Project Management Professional (PMP) preferred * 5-7 years of experience in Automotive Sales, Engineering or Operations Management; 2+ years of experience in Tier 1 Automotive Project/Program ...

Making automotive technology that is smarter, cleaner, safer and lighter. That's what we're ... Own and manage assigned programs across the full product lifecycle, including quoting, program ...

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Freelance Automotive Program Manager information

See salary details

$38.5K

$107.5K

$157K

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

As of May 31, 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 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.

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 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.
More about Freelance Automotive Program Manager jobs
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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, 50% Temporary, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $107,460 per year, or $51.7 per hour.
Program Manager

Program Manager

Magna

Troy, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Job descriptions may display in multiple languages based on your language selection.
What we offer:
At Magna, you can expect an engaging and dynamic environment where you can help to develop industry-leading automotive technologies. We invest in our employees, providing them with the support and resources they need to succeed. As a member of our global team, you can expect exciting, varied responsibilities as well as a wide range of development prospects. Because we believe that your career path should be as unique as you are.
Group Summary:
Transforming mobility. Making automotive technology that is smarter, cleaner, safer and lighter. That's what we're passionate about at Magna Powertrain, and we do it by creating world-class powertrain systems. We are a premier supplier for the global automotive industry with full capabilities in design, development, testing and manufacturing of complex powertrain systems. Our name stands for quality, environmental consciousness, and safety. Innovation is what drives us and we drive innovation. Dream big and create the future of mobility at Magna Powertrain.
Job Responsibilities:
Mission of the Position:
The Program Manager (PM) is responsible for program management throughout the entire product life cycle (from pre-acquisition through end of production); Providing customer acquisition support for new programs; Leading program-related communications and taking full program management ownership of related activities performed by multi-disciplined cross functional teams. Primary objectives are to manage timing, quality, and financial results of programs from start to finish, to excite the customer with the performance of the product and the services provided, and to deliver business results that meet or exceed Magna's expectation for awarded programs. The individual must possess 5-10 years of program management experience with a verifiable record of results within the automotive industry along with a strong technical background that may include knowledge of powertrain systems & components (including 4WD/AWD, fluid pressure & controls, stampings & castings) and a good understanding of cross-functional responsibilities.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Primary point of communication interface to the customer for the respective program(s).
  • Possesses the interpersonal skills to build relationships with key customer contacts responsible for the decision-making process. Actively listens, probes and identifies concerns. Understands customer's business and speaks their language. Develops credibility, loyalty, trust and commitment.
  • Responsible for leading the preparation and business case review of quotations for customers.
  • Responsible for ensuring quotes target profitable and/or strategic business opportunities and performing contract reviews when awarded.
  • Cohesively aligns with Global Product Managers, Product Engineering, and Sales by providing customer feedback on products and features as well as competitive information within their respective product group.
  • Owns program management through complete product life cycle from concept, quoting, program award, product development, supplier selection, launch, post-production performance, & lessons learned utilizing the Magna Global Program Management System (GPMS):
  • Preparation and communication of program status meetings to management steering committee and escalation of critical issues.
  • Coordinating / monitoring project documentation, timelines, technical performance, budget, production, quality deliverables, and corrective action initiatives.
  • Full program management ownership of program-related functional activities: quoting, purchasing, product engineering, quality, manufacturing / launch management, & finance/budget.
  • Manage Series Production Phase including claims management, change management & continuous improvement, VA/VE activities, and execution of ongoing price negotiations / adjustments.

Customers and Business Interfaces:
  • Product Engineering
  • Sales
  • Purchasing
  • Manufacturing
  • Advanced Manufacturing Engineer
  • Supplier Quality
  • Project Controlling
  • OEMs

Requirements and Qualifications:
  • Must possess a combined 5-10 years of program management experience along with a verifiable record of results in both disciplines within the automotive industry.
  • Bachelors' Degree Required.
  • Strong technical background that may include knowledge of powertrain systems & components (including 4WD/AWD, fluid pressure & controls, stampings & castings) and a good understanding of cross-functional responsibilities.
  • Must possess moderately advanced usage of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, & PowerPoint); must be/become proficient in company & customer systems.
  • Previous experience in a plant operations role or environment is preferred.

Magna Standards:
  • Practice and maintain integrity while following Magna's Charter and Constitution.
  • Follow Magna's Code of Conduct and Ethics and related compliance policies.
  • Supports and adheres to policies, procedures, and operational guidelines related to established quality management system (IATF 16949).
  • Drive the development of new technologies to improve quality, efficiency and reduce cost.
  • Comply with safety policies and procedures to ensure duties of self are performed in a safe manner.
  • Health & Safety responsibilities:
    • Understand applicable Environmental, Health & Safety policies and procedures in the workplace.
    • Report unsafe conditions immediately.
    • Report injuries, accidents, illnesses, near misses, property damage immediately.
    • Follow safety rules.
    • Comply with requirements for the use or operation of machines or equipment.
    • Comply with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements.
  • Create a positive work environment by demonstrating and sharing functional/technical knowledge.
  • Develop and maintain a responsive and cooperative working relationship with internal and external customers.
  • Treat everyone with dignity, trust and respect.
  • Complete additional duties and responsibilities as assigned.

The above is intended to describe the general content of and the requirements for the performance of this position. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements.
This job description reflects the core elements of a position. There may be additional requirements based on local laws and regulations which could be attached as an addendum.
Work Environment
Office environment: 25% Travel required to customer offices & production locations, Magna production locations, etc.
While working in this environment, the employee will be exposed to machinery, moving equipment and material, moderate noise, airborne particles, fumes, and various levels of temperature created by manufacturing processes.
Awareness, Unity, Empowerment:
At Magna, we believe that a diverse workforce is critical to our success. That's why we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We hire on the basis of experience and qualifications, and in consideration of job requirements, regardless of, in particular, color, ancestry, religion, gender, origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability or gender identity. Magna takes the privacy of your personal information seriously. We discourage you from sending applications via email or traditional mail to comply with GDPR requirements and your local Data Privacy Law.
AI-Assisted Screening Disclosure
As part of our commitment to a fair, consistent, and efficient recruitment process, we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in the initial screening of applications submitted through our Workday system. These tools help identify qualifications and experience that align with the role requirements. Please note that AI is used solely to support our recruiters. Final decisions are always made by the hiring manager and the hiring team. Importantly, no applicant data is shared externally through these AI tools. All information remains securely within our systems and is handled in accordance with our privacy and data protection policies.
Under conditions defined by applicable law, you may have the right to request an explanation of how AI is used to support decision-making.
If you have any questions or concerns about this process, feel free to contact our Talent Attraction team.
Worker Type:
Regular / Permanent
Group:
Magna Powertrain