Project Manager

SODECIA is a global automotive supplier specializing in the development and manufacturing of components and systems for leading automotive OEMs and Tier 1 customers. Our operations combine engineering, tooling, stamping, welding, automation, and advanced manufacturing technologies to deliver high-quality products and competitive solutions to the automotive industry. For our Auburn, USA plant , we are looking for an experienced Project Manager to lead automotive industrialization and customer projects from project award through launch and successful transition into serial production. The Opportunity As Project Manager , you will be responsible for the overall coordination and execution of assigned projects, ensuring that technical, timing, cost, quality, and customer requirements are achieved. This is a hands-on role for a professional who understands automotive manufacturing processes and industrialization , particularly automatic MIG welding, stamping, tooling, automation, and production systems . You will work closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Maintenance, Tooling, Purchasing and Operations teams, as well as customers, suppliers and SODECIA's global organization. Key Responsibilities Lead projects from concept/design through industrialization, launch, and SOP . Define and manage project scope, timing, milestones, resources, costs, and deliverables. Coordinate cross-functional project teams across Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Tooling, Maintenance, Purchasing and Operations. Act as the main project interface with customers and ensure effective communication throughout the project. Drive the industrialization of products and manufacturing processes, ensuring manufacturability, capacity, and production readiness . Coordinate the development and implementation of manufacturing equipment, including: Automatic MIG welding lines and robotic welding systems Stamping presses and stamping processes Tooling, dies, fixtures and gauges Automation and material handling systems Assembly and production equipment Manage equipment and tooling suppliers, including technical requirements, quotations, development, commissioning and acceptance. Coordinate run-offs, equipment installation, process validation, trials, and production ramp-up . Monitor project performance against timing, budget, quality, and technical targets and implement corrective actions when required. Lead risk identification and mitigation throughout the project lifecycle. Ensure successful completion of PPAP/APQP and customer-specific requirements . Support production ramp-up and ensure a robust transition from project phase to serial production. Prepare and present project status, risks, action plans, and escalation topics to plant and senior management. Ensure lessons learned are captured and incorporated into future projects. Technical Background The ideal candidate will have a strong technical and practical understanding of automotive manufacturing and industrialization , with experience in several of the following areas: Automatic MIG welding / robotic welding Stamping and metal forming processes Tooling and dies Welding fixtures and gauges Industrial automation and robotics Production line design and implementation Manufacturing engineering Process development and optimization Equipment commissioning and production launch Experience with automotive body structures, chassis or metal components is highly valued. Candidate Profile Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering , Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical discipline. 5+ years of experience in project management within automotive manufacturing, industrialization, or manufacturing engineering. Demonstrated experience managing complex automotive projects from award to SOP . Strong technical understanding of manufacturing processes and production equipment. Experience working with automotive OEMs and/or Tier 1 suppliers . Strong knowledge of project management methodologies and tools. Ability to understand technical problems, challenge solutions, and drive decisions. Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to coordinate multidisciplinary teams. Comfortable working in a fast-paced, international, and multicultural environment . Strong problem-solving, organization, and negotiation skills. Willingness to travel to customers, suppliers and other SODECIA locations as required. Fluent English is required. Fluency in German is a plus What We Offer The opportunity to join a global automotive organization with operations across multiple countries. A key role in the growth and development of SODECIA's North American operations. Exposure to advanced manufacturing, automation, welding, and stamping technologies . An international and collaborative working environment. Opportunity to work on major automotive programs with global customers. Competitive compensation and benefits package. Join SODECIA If you are an experienced automotive Project Manager with a strong manufacturing and technical background and are looking for an opportunity where you can directly influence the successful launch of complex automotive projects, we would like to hear from you. Data protection notice: By applying, your personal data will be processed for recruitment purposes and stored for 3 years. 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