Program Manager I

Associate / Junior Program Manager

The Associate / Junior Program Manager supports project development and launch activities from award through closure (SOP +100 days). This role assists local development teams in executing new program launches and coordinates activities across R&D, Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, and Operations. The Associate Project Manager supports APQP development phases, customer build events, project documentation, and issue tracking, while serving as an operational point of contact for internal stakeholders and customers. The role also contributes to continuous improvement initiatives that enhance APQP execution, project management processes, tools, and local deployment effectiveness.

Key Responsibilities (other duties may be assigned as needed):

• Assist in creating the project charter and defining project scope based on OEM Statements of Requirements; support scope maintenance to mitigate scope creep throughout execution.
• Support Change Control Board for all changes after 90 days.
• Support development of project timing including master schedule and Work Breakdown Structure (WBS); assist in timing tracking and control in project management systems (e.g., iPCS).
• Monitor and support project profitability and cost control activities across APQP gates, tracking financial indicators and highlighting anomalies.
• Capture and document lessons learned and corrective actions throughout the project life cycle to support quality improvements.
• Participate in risk assessment activities, assist in developing mitigation scenarios, and escalate unresolved issues in a timely manner.
• Support change management by tracking and coordinating internal and external change requests (ECRs) and sample/PPAP activities consistent with customer and internal processes.
• Support communication with customers and internal stakeholders; maintain open issues lists and update them regularly, escalating as appropriate.
• Assist in preparing and communicating project status reports, including monthly updates to upper management and relevant global/regional stakeholders.
• Organize and support project kick-off meetings and assist with all Project Gate (1–6) reviews and documentation requirements.

Qualifications:

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or business administration is required.
• Minimum of 5+ years of automotive product engineering experience, or any relevant product experience.
• Product, processes, and tools expertise is preferred.
• PMP certification is preferred.

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong planning & scheduling skill utilizing Microsoft suite (MS project, PowerPoint, and Excel)
• Time management by recognizing the importance of managing time and prioritizing daily activities.
• Risk management by proactively staying engaged with core team and constantly identifying project threats and opportunities. Take action to mitigate risks and prevent the project from missing key milestones.
• Leadership skills: Able to guide, motivate, and direct the team without any direct reports.
• Strong communication skills: Being insightful, collaborative, and optimistic.
• Conflict resolution skills: Managing conflicts amongst team members, being part of the solution facilitation.
• Team building skills: By establishing relationships and building trust amongst team and Stakeholders.

Working Conditions: This position typically operates in an office environment. Physical Requirements: Ability to sit for extended periods while working at a computer. Remote Work: Eligible for hybrid remote work schedule at management's discretion. Flexible Work: Flexible working hours if/as required to support global team and customer based. Travel Frequency: Up to 25% travel. Compensation and Benefits: Competitive salary commensurate with experience. Benefits package includes health, dental & vision insurance, life insurance and other supplemental benefits, 401(k) plan, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: HL Mando is an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or disability status.