Technical Program Director Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

The Seat Sub-System Technical Lead (SSTL) is the technical program leader for seating systems on one or more vehicle lines, serving as the primary interface between Seat Engineering and all cross-functional partners including Program Management, Manufacturing, Purchasing, Quality, and Suppliers.  This role is accountable for delivering complete seat systems that meet all functional, performance, safety, and regulatory requirements, while achieving program targets for cost, weight, investment, timing, and quality.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the development and integration of seating systems from concept through launch and into production and service lifecycle.
• Own delivery of all program milestones, ensuring alignment to C/W/I targets, KPIs, and timing commitments.
• Provide technical leadership and program direction to cross-functional teams, including Design Release Engineers (DREs) and suppliers, influencing without direct authority.
• Act as the single point of contact for all seat system activities across the program.
• Drive concept development including benchmarking, architecture definition, packaging, and early feasibility.
• Lead sourcing and supplier engagement, including supplier selection, design maturation, and tooling kickoff.
• Ensure robust execution of engineering processes including DFMEA, DVP&R, Product Assurance Plans (PAP), and validation activities.
• Own and manage requirements definition and change management (DCR, CN, ODM, CCD) to maintain alignment with product planning and program objectives.
• Maintain ownership of engineering deliverables, including CAD (NX), Teamcenter data integrity, EBOM/CODEP, and documentation.
• Lead issue identification, root cause analysis, and resolution, ensuring timely closure using formal processes (e.g., GIMS).
• Support prototype, pre-production, and launch activities onsite as the seat system representative; lead issue triage during launch.
• Drive value optimization and cost efficiency initiatives, including teardown studies, supplier collaboration, and internal processes (ILO).
• Monitor and communicate program health, risks, and status to senior leadership through clear, data-driven updates.
• Own post-launch warranty performance and lead continuous improvement actions to meet quality and customer satisfaction targets.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 8 years of engineering experience, including automotive interiors or seating systems (OEM or Tier 1).
• Demonstrated success in technical program leadership and milestone delivery.
• Strong leadership capability with the ability to influence cross-functional teams without direct authority.
• Experience with DFMEA, DVP&R, product development processes, and change management systems.
• Proven ability to manage supplier relationships and co-development activities.
• Strong problem-solving and root cause analysis skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, including engagement with senior leadership.
• Ability to manage multiple concurrent programs and competing priorities.
• Working knowledge of manufacturing processes (e.g., stamping, welding, foam, trim, assembly).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools.
• Willingness to travel to suppliers and assembly plants (domestic and international) as required.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Mechanical, Automotive, or Electrical Engineering.
• Deep expertise in automotive seating systems and components.
• DFSS Green Belt or Black Belt certification.
• Formal training in structured problem-solving methodologies (e.g., Shainin, Red X, Six Sigma).
• Strong GD&T proficiency.
• Experience with UG NX and Teamcenter PLM systems.
• Familiarity with Stellantis engineering systems, processes, and product architecture.
• Experience with cost engineering, value optimization, and investment planning.
• Understanding of ergonomics, comfort, and occupant safety requirements.
• Multilingual capability (e.g., Spanish) is a plus.