Technical Program & Project Manager
The Technical Program & Project Manager will lead complex automotive seating hardware programs from concept through industrialization, ensuring delivery of next-generation EV seating systems that meet cost, weight, efficiency, performance, and quality targets. This role requires collaboration across engineering, supply chain, finance, and strategy teams to manage risks, schedules, and supplier relationships in a fast-paced, hybrid work environment. The position offers early-career professionals the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and make a significant impact on future vehicle systems.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Overview
Confidential Client is seeking an early-career Technical Program & Project Manager to join a high-performing automotive seating team in Dearborn, MI. In this hybrid role (4 days/week in-office), you’ll help drive next-generation EV seating hardware programs from concept through industrialization, working cross-functionally to meet targets for cost, weight, performance and quality.
What You’ll Do
- Use your technical background to drive complex engineering challenges to resolution and keep programs on track for Start of Production (SOP) and beyond.
- Collaborate with engineering, supply chain, finance, and strategy teams to scope work, define requirements, identify risks, and provide clear program updates.
- Support the full hardware product lifecycle: ideation, design, validation, integration, and industrialization of integrated seating and interior systems.
- Surface issues from design reviews, virtual builds, and physical build events; lead containment and cross-team resolution to protect schedule and quality.
- Monitor deliverables for system compatibility and integration opportunities to increase velocity and collaboration.
- Partner with supply chain and suppliers to secure parts and support build events.
- Prepare focused meeting agendas that drive decisions, remove bottlenecks, and retire risks.
- Champion transparency and proactive risk mitigation.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical field — or equivalent relevant experience.
- 2–5 years of experience in technical program management, project engineering, or similar roles supporting hardware development. (Strong internships/co-ops welcome.)
- Solid understanding of the product development lifecycle: design, development, validation, integration, and launch.
- Familiarity with materials, manufacturing processes, and technologies used in automotive interiors or seating.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities across teams and timelines.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications & Skills
- Experience with automotive seating, interior systems, or EV subsystems.
- Knowledge of AIAG APQP and PPAP processes and performance testing practices.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint), Jira, Confluence, or similar tools.
- Experience working in a cross-functional, matrixed environment.
- A systems-oriented mindset, natural curiosity, and a drive for continuous improvement.
- Passion for automotive innovation and delivering customer-focused products.
Compensation & Location
- Estimated salary: $125,422 per year (estimated).
- Location: Dearborn, MI — Hybrid (approximately 4 days per week in office).
- Employment type: Full-time (direct hire by Confidential Client).
Why This Role? (Third-Party Recruiter Perspective)
- Gain hands-on ownership of complex hardware programs and accelerate your technical and program-management skills.
- Work closely with seasoned engineering leaders on EV seating systems that will appear in future vehicles.
- Fast-paced environment where clear communication, ownership, and technical curiosity are rewarded.
- Opportunities for visibility and impact early in your career.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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