VAA Automation Senior Project Lead
About The Position
The Automation Sr. Project Leader is a recognized expert in developing automation solutions for complex Value-Added Assembly (VAA) modules. This role manages ideation, development and deployment of fully automated systems to assemble interior and/or chassis components into VAA sub-assemblies and material movement. The engineer will interface with Value-Added Suppliers to connect Automation & Integration Suppliers, Industrialization, Product Engineering, Manufacturing, and GPSC M&E Purchasing to drive cross-functional alignment and execution of all projects. This position requires independent judgment, strategic thinking, and the ability to influence change across the organization. This role could support Sr. Material Optimization Lead, Sr. Automation Process Lead, Sr. Automation Project Lead.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in engineering, manufacturing, automation, supply chain, or related technical field.
- 5+ years of experience in engineering, manufacturing, automation systems, industrial engineering, supplier development. (any internship or co-op experience will not be considered)
- Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional initiatives and influence senior stakeholders.
- Strong understanding of design release and vehicle build process.
- Excellent communication, consulting, and strategic problem-solving skills.
- Ability to travel domestically to supplier locations (up to 50%).
Nice To Haves
- Familiarity with global manufacturing practices and automation trends.
- Exposure to lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
- Project management experience in cross-functional or supplier-facing roles.
- Coordinating resources, providing updates and tracking timelines
- Working knowledge of automation technologies including robotics, PLCs, MES, and smart manufacturing systems, with exposure to WMS and ERP environments.
- Conduct feasibility studies and business case analysis for proposed automation projects
- Previous experience in manufacturing and supply chain
- Experience in mentoring and developing talent within technical teams.
- Advanced analytical skills with proficiency in tools such as Power BI, Excel, and data modeling.
- Experience in AutoCAD, Factory CAD or equivalent
Responsibilities
- Present strategic recommendations to senior leadership and drive adoption across global teams.
- Own the solution and continuous improvement of GM’s VAA automation strategy and process
- Lead ideation workshops with Product Engineering & Manufacturing teams to adapt part designs to support automation solutions
- Collaborate with robotic, automation and material movement suppliers to develop automation assembly systems
- Identify technologies to be utilized by application, document and communicate automation enablers, establish a cadence that will establish success
- Lead R&D trials for automation solutions
- Lead pilots of automation solutions in local plants
- Plan phased cadence to launch automation solutions
- Deploy solutions to all VAA plants where applicable
- Act as a strategic liaison between VAA suppliers, Industrialization, and GPSC M&E Purchasing to ensure coordinated execution.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
