Project Chief - Propulsion Systems

Talascend is currently seeking a Project Chief - Propulsion Systems for a contract opportunity with our client in Auburn Hills, Michigan.

Overview

The role involves being the technical program manager for vehicle lines, acting as the key point of contact between the Induction and Exhaust systems design team and other functional areas. Responsibilities include ensuring that the systems meet functional and performance requirements while adhering to cost, weight, investment, timing, and quality objectives.

Responsibilities

• Lead air induction and exhaust systems responsibilities from the initial concept phase through end of life.
• Provide strong support of concept studies, initial packaging, function targets, cost and weight analysis, prototype procurement, supplier management, sourcing, tooling kickoff, validation, launch, program maintenance, change management, value optimization, and quality improvement initiatives.
• Coordinate technical issue resolution pertaining to engineering and quality at all stages of the program.
• Support plant development and launch activities onsite as a visible member of the launch team.
• Act as the launch lead for Air Induction and Exhaust systems during the launch phase.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Electrical Engineering or equivalent from an ABET accredited program
• Minimum of 8 years of engineering experience with an emphasis on automotive Air Induction and Exhaust Systems/components at either an OEM or supplier
• Preferred: Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Electrical Engineering or equivalent from an ABET accredited program

Requirements

• Strong leader with entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to sell ideas to all stakeholders.
• Must be self-sufficient with ability to influence and lead others without formal authority.
• Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Must be able to lead and manage suppliers.
• Must be able to manage multiple concurrent activities.
• Some travel required to supplier and vehicle assembly plants in North America.
• Proven experience in program management with the ability to set a timeline and execute at the required milestones.
• Strong working knowledge and experience with automotive Air Induction and Exhaust components.
• Ability to proactively communicate with other colleagues, stakeholders, program management, and supervisors.
• Experience and confidence in communicating status to a varied audience including top management.
• Ability to effectively operate both independently and as part of a team.
• General knowledge of tooling and manufacturing processes including molding, stamping, welding, brazing, machining, casting, and coatings.
• Ability and knowledge to create effective presentations.
• High level of experience with MS Office tools.
• Knowledge of automotive packaging and general automotive assembly practices.
• Ability to review and apply component and system DFMEAs and DVP&Rs.
• Basic financial understanding with ability to maintain program budget.

Preferred Requirements

• Understanding of electric vehicle thermal systems and common vehicle system interactions.
• Experience in component costing (variable cost and investment).
• Solid understanding of thermodynamics and heat transfer from a practical standpoint.
• Understanding of electrical circuits, components and their operating principles.
• Familiarity with powertrain software and controls.
• Experience with Air Induction and Exhaust-specific and total vehicle testing including NVH.
• Experience in DFSS proactive and/or reactive quality tools.
• Working knowledge of UG/NX CAD systems.

Shift

Hybrid - mandatory in the office four days a week.