Sr Program Manager

Challenge Manufacturing • Walker, MI

9d • Onsite

About The Position

Challenge Manufacturing is 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.

Requirements

• 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%

Nice To Haves

• 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Benefits

• medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 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
• Employer 401k Match
• ESOP shares
• tuition reimbursement
• Referral Bonus Program
• Challenge Incentive Program
• paid time off

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior