Program Manager

Burke Porter, an Ascential Technologies Brand•Shelby Charter Township, MI

18d

About The Position

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Program Manager to lead end-to-end project management for custom automation equipment. This role involves planning, executing, and monitoring multiple concurrent projects in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. The Program Manager will coordinate with various engineering and manufacturing teams, manage customer relationships, and ensure project success from initiation to final acceptance. This position requires a strong understanding of automotive manufacturing processes, automation systems, and project management principles.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience)
5+ years of project management experience in automotive manufacturing, industrial automation, or machine tool environments
Experience managing custom machinery, assembly systems, or test equipment programs strongly preferred
Strong understanding of automotive manufacturing processes, automation systems, and production environments
Proven experience managing project scope, schedules, budgets, and risk
Familiarity with engineering disciplines (mechanical, electrical, controls) and manufacturing processes

Responsibilities

Lead end-to-end project management for custom automation equipment, including assembly lines, test systems, and machine builds.
Develop detailed project plans outlining scope, schedule, budget, resource allocation, and deliverables.
Define project milestones and ensure alignment with internal teams and customer expectations.
Manage multiple concurrent projects in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Coordinate with Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Controls), Manufacturing, Quality, and Supply Chain teams to ensure seamless execution.
Facilitate regular project meetings, including design reviews, progress updates, and risk assessments.
Drive accountability across teams to meet project timelines and deliverables.
Track project performance against schedule, budget, and scope.
Identify potential risks, bottlenecks, or delays, and implement corrective actions.
Lead root cause analysis and resolution of technical, production, or supplier-related issues.
Serve as the primary point of contact for customers throughout the project lifecycle.
Communicate project status, key milestones, risks, and changes to customers and internal leadership.
Manage customer expectations and ensure final deliverables meet contractual and quality requirements.
Support customer visits, system run-offs, and final acceptance activities.
Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation and contingency plans.
Ensure compliance with applicable industry standards, safety regulations, and quality requirements.
Monitor project changes and manage scope creep through formal change control processes.