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Validation Lead Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Biovire

Manager, Validation

Brighton, MI · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

We are seeking a Manager, Validation, reporting to the VP, Engineering, to lead validation programs supporting equipment, facilities, utilities, and computerized systems within our regulated ...

Magna

Validation Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

... lead discussions to obtain the inputs and deliverables required for Validation Testing. • Ability to evaluate and provide applicable and accurate test proposals based on modules/design changes ...

Magna

Validation Engineer

Southfield, MI · On-site

Support engineering design team meetings and lead discussions to obtain the inputs and deliverables required for Validation Testing. Ability to evaluate and provide applicable and accurate test ...

Magna

Validation Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI

Support engineering design team meetings and lead discussions to obtain the inputs and deliverables required for Validation Testing. Ability to evaluate and provide applicable and accurate test ...

Apetan Consulting llc

Project Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

Lead engineering development, integration, validation, and launch of systems with a focus on safety, quality, and technical excellence. * Drive disciplined delivery to vehicle development milestones ...

Ford Motor Company

Testing and Governance Lead

Detroit, MI · On-site

$115K - $150K/yr

We are seeking a RAR Catalog Governance & Validation Lead to join the Integrated Services Business Office. In this critical role, you will bridge the gap between business and technical system ...

New

Neogen

Mechanical Validation Engineer

Lansing, MI

Lead and perform validations including but not limited to rooms and equipment. * Assure compliance with internal SOP's and external regulations. * Help to foster a quality environment and mindset ...

Rivian

Validation Engineer - Powertrain

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$85K - $107K/yr

Develop, maintain, and track end-to-end validation testing plans (DVP&R) for the electric ... Lead thorough troubleshooting and failure investigations using structured Rivian methodologies ...

Rivian

Validation Engineer - Powertrain

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$85K - $107K/yr

Develop, maintain, and track end-to-end validation testing plans (DVP&R) for the electric ... Lead thorough troubleshooting and failure investigations using structured Rivian methodologies ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsValidation Lead JobsValidation Lead Jobs in Michigan

Validation Lead information

See Michigan salary details

$11

$24

$58

How much do validation lead jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for validation lead in Michigan is $24.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $30.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a validation lead?

Validation Leads are professionals responsible for overseeing and managing the validation process in industries such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and manufacturing. They ensure that systems, equipment, and processes meet regulatory standards and function as intended. Their duties include planning validation activities, coordinating with cross-functional teams, reviewing documentation, and troubleshooting issues during validation. Validation Leads also play a key role in maintaining compliance with industry regulations and ensuring product quality and safety.

What are the typical challenges a validation lead faces when coordinating cross-functional teams during validation projects?

As a Validation Lead, one common challenge is ensuring effective communication and alignment among cross-functional teams such as quality assurance, engineering, production, and regulatory affairs. Each team may have different priorities and perspectives, which can create delays or misunderstandings if not managed proactively. Successful Validation Leads facilitate regular meetings, clarify project goals, and address issues promptly to keep validation activities on track. Being adaptable and fostering collaboration are key to overcoming these challenges and delivering compliant, on-time results.

What is the difference between Validation Lead vs Validation Specialist?

AspectValidation LeadValidation Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in life sciences or engineering, with experience in validation processesSimilar credentials, often with less managerial experience
Work EnvironmentLeads validation projects, manages teams, and oversees validation activitiesPerforms validation tasks, executes protocols, and documents results
Industry UsageCommonly found in pharmaceutical, biotech, and medical device industriesUsed across similar industries, often reporting to Validation Leads

The Validation Lead is responsible for overseeing validation projects and managing teams, while the Validation Specialist executes validation tasks and documents results. Both roles require similar credentials and are integral to quality assurance in regulated industries. The Lead has a broader scope, including project management, whereas the Specialist focuses on technical validation activities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a validation lead, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Validation Lead, you need expertise in validation protocols, regulatory compliance (such as FDA or EMA guidelines), and a background in science or engineering, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with validation lifecycle documentation tools, quality management systems (QMS), and standards like GAMP 5 is typically required. Strong leadership, attention to detail, and effective communication help coordinate cross-functional teams and ensure documentation accuracy. These skills are crucial for maintaining product quality, meeting regulatory standards, and ensuring successful project delivery in regulated industries.

What are popular job titles related to Validation Lead jobs in Michigan?

For Validation Lead jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Validation Lead jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Validation Lead jobs in Michigan are:

Validation Lead jobs near you
Infographic showing various Validation Lead job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,925 per year, or $25 per hour.

Engineering Program Lead

ND DEFENSE LLC

Madison Heights, MI • On-site

$140K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

ND Defense is seeking an Engineering Program Lead to oversee the full-lifecycle management of military and government vehicle programs. This role drives the planning, execution, and delivery of complex defense vehicle systems—including tactical wheeled vehicles, armored platforms, and ground mobility solutions—in compliance with U.S. government acquisition regulations and contractual requirements.

The Engineering Program Lead serves as the primary leader for program technical planning and execution and representing ND Defense program technical direction to government customers (DoD, Army, Marine Corps, DLA), and prime contractor partners. The role requires a combination of systems engineering expertise, program management discipline, defense acquisition knowledge, and a forward-looking ability to leverage AI and agentic technologies to optimize engineering workflows and program execution.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Systems Engineering & Technical Oversight

  • Provide systems engineering leadership across vehicle subsystems including drivetrain, suspension, armor/protection, electrical/electronic architecture, C4ISR integration, and survivability.
  • Oversee requirements management, ensuring traceability from customer requirements through design, verification, and validation.
  • Lead product and configuration definition of COTS and adapted vehicle/mission systems; review and approve drawings, specifications, trade studies, test plans, and qualification reports.
  • Drive failure analysis and corrective action processes (FMEAs, 8D reports, corrective action plans).
  • Support proposal development including BOE generation, technical volumes, and risk analyses.

Program Leadership & Execution

  • Lead end-to-end technical program execution for military ground vehicle development and production contracts across wheeled vehicle platforms.
  • Partner with Program Management to develop, maintain, and execute Program Management Plans (PMP) aligned with contractual milestones and government CDRLs.
  • Drive and oversee the Integrated Master Schedules (IMS) for programs.
  • Manage program budgets, cost-at-completion forecasts, variance reporting, and team member task execution.
  • Coordinate across engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, test & evaluation, and quality assurance to ensure on-time program delivery.
  • Chair or support program reviews including PDRs, CDRs, TRRs, and milestone decision briefings.

Government & Customer Interface

  • Serve as the primary technical POC for government PMOs, Contracting Officers, and CORs, interfacing with agencies such as U.S. Army TACOM, GVSC, AMC, and NAVFAC.
  • Manage relationships with prime contractors and respond to RFIs, Engineering Change Proposals (ECPs), and Program Review packages.
  • Ensure compliance with all contract requirements, SOW deliverables, quality clauses, and applicable military standards (MIL-SPEC, MIL-STD).

AI & Process Optimization

  • Identify and implement opportunities to apply AI and agentic technologies to streamline engineering processes, automate routine program management tasks, and improve decision-making efficiency.
  • Stay current on emerging AI tools and methodologies relevant to defense engineering and program execution, and champion their adoption where appropriate.

Risk, Compliance & Reporting

  • Maintain program Risk & Opportunity registers and develop risk mitigation plans.
  • Ensure full compliance with ITAR, EAR, FAR/DFARS, and other government acquisition and export control regulations.
  • Prepare and deliver program status reports, metrics dashboards, and executive briefings.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Systems, or Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • Minimum 4 years of progressive experience in defense or automotive program/engineering management, preferably supporting U.S. government vehicle or ground systems programs.
  • Demonstrated experience applying AI or agentic technologies to optimize or automate engineering processes or program management workflows.
  • Proficiency with program management tools (MS Project, JIRA, Deltek Costpoint, or equivalent EVM software).

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Experience managing military and government vehicle programs through full acquisition lifecycle.
  • Knowledge of applicable military standards (MIL-STD-1553, MIL-STD-461, MIL-DTL-901, STANAG 4569, AV9660, etc.).
  • PMP certification or DAU Program Management certification (Level II or III).
  • Knowledge of low- and high-voltage electrical systems, hybrid drive systems, drive-by-wire, and autonomy.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • Work is performed in office and manufacturing/production floor environments; PPE required in production areas.
  • Travel up to 15%, including on short notice, to manufacturing facilities, government meetings, and proving grounds.
  • Must be physically capable of working around military vehicles and accessing vehicle crew stations.


ND Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Veteran/Disabled