Program Manager

About Us: JTEKT Column Systems North America is a dynamic and innovative Tier 1 automotive supplier and manufacturer of steering columns and related systems. We pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and forward-thinking work environment that encourages creativity and professional growth. As we continue to expand our product portfolio, we are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Program Manager to join our team.
The Benefits: We know how important your health, wellbeing, and financial strength is to you. JCSNA supports all aspects of the individual - self, health, wealth and community. We provide affordable benefits for you and your family members. Our benefits include:

• Medical, Dental, Vision
• Virtual Medical Services
• 401(k) Retirement Plan + company match
• Company paid life insurance
• Vacation time
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Plus more!

Position Overview: As a Program Manager at JCSNA, you will play a pivotal role in leading cross-functional teams through the entire NPD (new product development) lifecycle. You will be responsible for ensuring the successful execution of new product initiatives, from quotation to production launch. The ideal candidate will be a self-motivated individual, with a strong background in project management, excellent communication skills, and a proven track record of delivering innovative products on time and within budget.
Responsibilities:

• Project Leadership: Lead and inspire cross-functional teams, including all functional areas of the JCSNA organization, including plant level core teams, engineering, sales, finance, purchasing, quality, manufacturing, production control, upper management, to ensure the successful execution of NPD projects.
• Timeline and Budget Management: Develop and maintain project timelines, budgets, and resource plans. Monitor progress and take corrective actions as needed to ensure on-time delivery and adherence to financial targets.
• Risk Management: Identify potential risks and challenges in the NPD process and develop mitigation plans to minimize impact on project timelines and outcomes.
• Collaboration: Foster a collaborative environment that encourages open communication, idea sharing, and problem-solving among team members and stakeholders.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Communicate regularly with internal and external stakeholders, including other JTEKT global affiliates, suppliers and customers to provide updates on project status, address concerns, and gather feedback.
• Quality Assurance: Ensure that all NPD projects meet quality standards and regulatory requirements. Implement best practices to optimize product development processes.
• Continuous Improvement: Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the NPD program.

Requirements
Qualifications:

• Associates degree in an engineering related field; Bachelor's degree preferred.
• PMP Certification or proven equivalent experience (5+ years) in program management, specifically in new product development; preferably within the automotive industry.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and guide cross-functional teams.
• Excellent oral & written communication and interpersonal skills.
• Solid understanding of project management methodologies and tools.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• AS400 or other ERP/MRP database experience.
• Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Office and Project Management software/tools.
• Japanese language skills a plus

Supervisory Responsibilities
• This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities. Indirect supervisory responsibilities include interfacing with all functional areas of the JCSNA organization, including plant level teams, engineering, sales, finance, purchasing, quality, manufacturing, production control and upper management.
Work Environment
• This position operates in a manufacturing facility and professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment. This position periodically will require time in manufacturing, prototype, or test lab environments. While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
Physical Demands
• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift 32 pounds at times.
• Must be able to access and navigate each department at the organization's facilities.
• The employee is occasionally required to walk and reach with hands and arms.
• the employee is regularly required to stand; sit; use hands to handle, or feel and talk or hear.
Position/Hours
• This is a full-time position. Regular office hours are Monday through Friday. This position occasionally requires extended hours, including some weekends.
Travel
• Travel to vendor and customer worksites may be required. Occasional travel between JCSNA locations will be required. Overseas travel may also be required.
Disclaimer
• Please note this job posting is not intended to contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job.
AAP/EEO Statement
• It is our policy to provide equal opportunity to all qualified individuals without regard to their race, color, religion, national origin, age or sex in all personnel actions including recruitment, evaluation, selection, promotion, compensation, training and termination. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job duties.
How to Apply:
• If you are a results-driven professional with a passion for innovation and a track record of successfully managing NPD programs, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Please submit your resume, cover letter, and any relevant portfolio materials today.