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.