Technical Program Manager / Project Chief - Air Induction & Exhaust Systems

Location: Auburn Hills, MI

Travel: Occasional travel throughout the U.S. and Canada

We are seeking an experienced Technical Program Manager / Project Chief to lead the development and launch of automotive Air Induction and Exhaust systems for vehicle programs. This role serves as the single point of contact for the commodity, driving program execution and coordinating activities across engineering, vehicle program teams, manufacturing, suppliers, quality, and leadership.

The ideal candidate has a strong background in automotive exhaust systems (preferred) and/or air induction systems, with experience leading product development programs within an OEM or automotive supplier environment. This individual should have the ability to influence cross-functional teams, manage complex timelines, and drive successful vehicle launches from concept through production.

• Lead Air Induction and Exhaust system development from concept through production launch and ongoing vehicle support
• Serve as the primary program contact for assigned vehicle lines and commodity responsibilities
• Coordinate and oversee Design & Release Engineer activities to ensure engineering deliverables, timing, and milestones are achieved
• Manage program objectives including timing, cost, quality, weight, validation, and launch readiness
• Partner with cross-functional teams including Vehicle Program Management, Manufacturing, NVH, Vehicle Synthesis, Quality, Purchasing, and Engineering
• Drive supplier communication, performance tracking, issue resolution, and technical alignment
• Support APQP activities, engineering changes, validation plans, prototype builds, and production launches
• Lead issue resolution during pilot builds and launch activities while ensuring proper escalation and communication
• Provide program updates and status reporting to stakeholders and leadership
• Support supplier visits, assembly plant activities, and launch events as needed

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related technical field
• 5+ years of automotive engineering or technical program management experience
• Experience with automotive Exhaust systems is strongly preferred; Air Induction experience will also be considered
• Experience leading automotive product development programs from concept through launch
• Strong background managing suppliers and coordinating cross-functional engineering teams
• Experience working with Design & Release Engineers and driving engineering deliverables without direct reporting authority
• Understanding of automotive development processes including APQP, DFMEA, DVP&R, validation, and change management
• Ability to manage multiple vehicle programs and competing priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Strong communication, leadership, organization, and presentation skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools

• OEM experience strongly preferred
• Stellantis/Chrysler experience preferred, including familiarity with CN (Change Notice) and TKO processes
• Experience with automotive Exhaust components including catalytic converters, exhaust pipes, mufflers/resonators, and heat shields
• Experience supporting vehicle launches, pilot builds, and assembly plant activities
• Knowledge of underbody/underhood packaging and automotive manufacturing processes
• Experience with DFSS, NVH testing, thermal systems, CAD (UG/NX), and component cost analysis
• Understanding of EV thermal systems and powertrain interactions

• Occasional travel throughout North America (U.S. and Canada) is required
• Travel is project-driven and may include supplier visits, assembly plant support, prototype builds, and vehicle launch activities

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Pet Insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Commuter/Parking Accounts
• AD&D Insurance
• People Perks Program

Advantage Technical connects top- talent in technology, engineering, and technical fields with forward-looking companies.

Advantage Technical is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Advantage Technical offers reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities; contact your local branch for inquiries. Advantage Technical is an E-Verify employer. See our Privacy Notice for Candidates and Employees/Contractors at https://smgroupna.com/privacy-notice-for-candidates-and-employees-contractors. By applying, you consent to receive AI-generated and non-AI-generated calls, texts, or emails from Staffmark Group, its affiliates, and partners. Frequency varies and message/data rates may apply. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for help.