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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