Job Description
Position Overview
Client is seeking an experienced Exterior Trim Technical Program Manager to lead the design, development, and launch readiness of exterior trim systems for next-generation electric vehicles. This role requires strong technical understanding of mechanical/exterior trim engineering, exceptional program management skills, and the ability to drive cross-functional teams to meet aggressive development and production timelines. Occasional travel to the Arizona manufacturing plant is required to support build and launch activities.
Key Responsibilities
Exterior Trim Development & Engineering Support
- Lead and support the design and development of exterior trim components , including fascia, moldings, appliqués, badges, seals, lighting trims, and related systems.
- Provide hands-on technical guidance to resolve engineering challenges and ensure high-quality integration of mechanical systems.
- Work cross-functionally with design, body engineering, manufacturing, testing, and supplier teams.
Program & Project Management
- Build and maintain detailed Gantt charts to track multiple exterior trim development projects.
- Monitor progress, drive accountability, and ensure all milestones are met on schedule.
- Manage and oversee BOM updates , design freezes, and release timing.
- Support process improvement initiatives to enhance project tracking, communication, and milestone execution.
Validation, Testing & Supplier Coordination
- Interface with test departments and exterior trim suppliers to ensure validation plans stay on timeline for vehicle production.
- Monitor test status, coordinate part deliveries, track open issues, and follow up on corrective actions.
- Ensure all parts meet engineering requirements and production quality standards.
Tools & Documentation
- Use JIRA to track engineering tasks, sprints, development progress, and issue resolution.
- Publish key program documentation and updates in Confluence for cross-team visibility and knowledge sharing.
- Prepare and deliver regular progress reports to management and executive leadership.
Cross-Functional Leadership
- Proactively collaborate with other engineering teams, program managers, suppliers, and manufacturing partners.
- Identify launch risks early and drive mitigation plans to ensure smooth production start.
- Support vehicle build activities at the Arizona manufacturing facility as needed.
Executive-Level Communication
- Present program status, critical issues, risks, and mitigation plans to the executive team as required.
- Summarize complex engineering and program details into clear, concise executive updates.
Required Experience & Qualifications
- Proven experience in exterior trim design and development within automotive or similar industries.
- Strong understanding of mechanical systems, vehicle packaging, and trim component engineering.
- Demonstrated experience creating and managing Gantt charts , schedules, and engineering timelines.
- Proficiency with JIRA and Confluence for task management and documentation.
- Strong cross-functional coordination and communication skills.
- Ability to balance technical decision-making with program management rigor.
- Willingness to travel occasionally to the Arizona plant for build support.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working in EV or advanced automotive manufacturing environments.
- Experience managing suppliers for exterior trim components.
- Familiarity with vehicle launch processes, prototype builds, and PPAP-like workflows.
- Strong technical background in mechanical engineering or automotive engineering.
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