VAA Automation Senior Project Lead

Description

The Role

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.  

What You'll Do

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. 

Your Skills & Abilities (Required Qualifications)

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%). 

What Will Give You a Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications)

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 

GM does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. Do not apply for this role if you will need GM immigration sponsorship now or in the future. This includes direct company sponsorship, entry of GM as the immigration employer of record on a government form, and any work authorization requiring a written submission or other immigration support from the company (e.g., H1-B, OPT, STEM OPT, CPT, TN, J-1, etc.)

This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the selected candidate is expected to report to a specific location at least 3 times a week {or other frequency dictated by their manager}.

The selected candidate will be required to travel at least 50% or more on a frequent basis.

This job may be eligible for relocation benefits.

About GM

Our vision is a world with Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion and we embrace the responsibility to lead the change that will make our world better, safer and more equitable for all.

Why Join Us 

We believe we all must make a choice every day – individually and collectively – to drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every employee to feel they belong to one General Motors team.

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Non-Discrimination and Equal Employment Opportunities (U.S.)

General Motors is committed to being a workplace that is not only free of unlawful discrimination, but one that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. We strongly believe that providing an inclusive workplace creates an environment in which our employees can thrive and develop better products for our customers.

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