Launch Program Manager

Job DescriptionEssential Job FunctionsLead and coordinate all activities related to new product launches and engineering changes from program award through production stabilization.Develop and maintain program launch timelines, ensuring key milestones and customer timing requirements are achieved.Coordinate cross-functional teams including Engineering, Operations, Quality, Materials, Maintenance, and Supply Chain throughout the launch process.Identify, develop, and implement manufacturing processes, equipment, tooling, and production methods required for new products.Establish and maintain Bills of Material (BOMs), routings, process flows, control plans, and PFMEAs for new programs.Support APQP activities and ensure completion of all customer and internal gateway requirements.Prepare and coordinate PPAP submissions to obtain customer approval for production shipments and tooling invoices.Lead manufacturing process validation activities, including production trials, pilot builds, run-at-rate events, and capability studies.Ensure production systems are capable of meeting safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives prior to Start of Production (SOP).Partner with plant leadership to ensure staffing, training, work instructions, and operational readiness requirements are completed.Support customer launch reviews, audits, readiness assessments, and plant visits.Monitor launch performance metrics and implement corrective actions to address quality, delivery, or operational issues.Lead structured problem-solving activities and root cause analysis related to launch challenges.Support launch activities on-site at manufacturing facilities and customer locations as required.Drive continuous improvement initiatives to stabilize production and improve launch performance.Document lessons learned and incorporate best practices into future program launches.QualificationsBachelor's Degree in Engineering (Manufacturing, Mechanical, Industrial, or related field) required.Minimum 5-7 years of experience in automotive manufacturing, engineering, program management, or launch management.Tier 1 automotive supplier experience preferred.Proven experience leading new product launches from development through mass production.Demonstrated project leadership and cross-functional team management experience.Strong knowledge of automotive quality and launch systems including:APQPPPAPPFMEAControl PlansProcess ValidationRun-at-Rate ActivitiesCustomer Launch RequirementsExperience with manufacturing equipment, tooling, process development, and production readiness activities.Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and structured problem-solving methodologies.Strong organizational, communication, and project management skills.Experience working directly with OEM customers and customer launch teams preferred.Core CompetenciesProgram & Launch ManagementProject Planning and ExecutionManufacturing Process DevelopmentAPQP / PPAP ManagementCross-Functional LeadershipProduction Readiness PlanningCustomer Relationship ManagementRisk Assessment and MitigationRoot Cause Analysis and Problem SolvingContinuous ImprovementPhysical RequirementsAbility to work in both office and manufacturing environments.Ability to stand, walk, and access production equipment and tooling areas for extended periods.Occasional exposure to noise, manufacturing temperatures, and moving equipment.Occasional lifting of parts and materials up to 25 pounds.Frequent travel required, including overnight stays at customer and manufacturing facilities.