Sr Program Manager

United States·Walkersenior

OperationsProject Manager

0 views0 saves0 applied

Apply Now

Quick Summary

Key Responsibilities

Lead assigned programs through all phases—concept, design, build, validation, launch, and handoff to production. Manage all aspects of program timing, open issues,

Requirements Summary

This will be a M-F position located at our Corporate Office in Walker, MI. Occasionally, this may require you to arrive early, stay late, or work on weekends, outside of our regular hours,

Technical Tools

OperationsProject Manager

What We Offer

~1 min read

We are seeking an experienced Senior Program Manager to lead key customer programs from concept through full production launch. This individual will manage cross-functional teams, ensuring program deliverables meet or exceed customer expectations in timing, quality, and cost. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with strong launch discipline, technical understanding, and communication skills—capable of managing complex, high-volume automotive programs within a Tier 1 manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

~1 min read

→Lead assigned programs through all phases—concept, design, build, validation, launch, and handoff to production.
→Manage all aspects of program timing, open issues, and deliverables to ensure successful launch execution.
→Serve as the primary point of contact between Challenge and the customer for engineering, quality, and launch-related activities.
→Coordinate cross-functional support from Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Finance teams.
→Track and report program status using timing charts, KPI dashboards, and issue-tracking tools.
→Identify risks early and implement corrective and preventive actions to maintain launch readiness.
→Support financial tracking and cost management in partnership with Finance and Engineering.
→Ensure APQP, PPAP, and related customer requirements are properly executed.
→Conduct post-launch reviews and contribute to continuous improvement of launch processes.
→Promote a culture of accountability, communication, and collaboration within program teams.

Requirements

~2 min read

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical/Controls, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering (or equivalent).
7+ years of automotive experience, preferably in stamping, welding, or assembly operations.
5+ years of program or project management experience in a Tier 1 automotive environment.
Demonstrated success managing multiple OEM customer programs.
Strong understanding of APQP, PPAP, PFMEA, Control Plans, and GD&T.
Proficient in Microsoft Project, Excel, PowerPoint, and Word, PLEX.
Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
Proven ability to manage competing priorities and drive results in fast-paced settings.
Ability to travel up to 50%

Master’s degree in Engineering, Business, or Program Management.
PMP certification or equivalent.
Experience with Power BI, Smartsheet, or other digital launch tracking tools.
Exposure to EV platforms or next-generation vehicle programs.
Familiarity with multi-plant coordination and continuous improvement frameworks.

What We Offer:
We’re excited to offer a range of awesome benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a Health Savings Account with annual employer contributions, Flexible Spending Accounts, company-paid Short-Term Disability and Basic Life Insurance, Voluntary Life and Long-Term Disability options, an Employer 401k Match, ESOP shares, tuition reimbursement, a Referral Bonus Program, Challenge Incentive Program, and paid time off.

Please note, while these benefits are part of what we offer, they may not all apply to this specific role. The details shared in this job description are intended to give you a general idea, but duties and responsibilities may evolve over time, with or without notice. And of course, we’re happy to provide reasonable accommodations to help individuals with disabilities succeed in their role.