Automation Project Manager

Forvia, a sustainable mobility technology leader

We pioneer technology for mobility experience that matters to people.

Your mission, roles and responsibilities

Forvia is building a North American Automation Center of Excellence (COE) to define and deploy next‑generation automation solutions across our manufacturing network. As an Automation Project Manager, you will play a critical role in shaping and executing this strategy—leading the development of automation concepts, aligning global stakeholders, and ultimately driving large‑scale deployment of automation systems across our plants. This is a multi‑phase role:

• Phase 1 (Year1): Strategy development, technology evaluation, and global alignment
• Phase 2 (2027+): Execution of large‑scale automation programs (~$6M+), including plant deployment and rollout

Key Responsibilities

Strategy & Development (Year1 Focus)

• Lead the development of automation strategies and technology roadmaps for global operations
• Evaluate and validate automation technologies (robotics, material handling, JIT systems) for high‑volume manufacturing
• Partner with global teams to define standardized automation solutions
• Build business cases and CapEx justifications for future investments
• Coordinate cross‑functional alignment with Manufacturing, Engineering, Operations, and Supply Chain

Program Leadership & Execution (2027+)

• Lead implementation of large‑scale automation projects (~$6M CapEx) across multiple plants
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and deliverables in collaboration with plant teams and suppliers
• Oversee external automation integrators and vendors
• Ensure successful deployment aligned to cost, quality, and efficiency targets

Team Leadership & Collaboration

• Coordinate and guide a team of technical specialists (robotics, controls, IT)
• Act as the primary liaison between global teams, regional operations, and suppliers
• Drive knowledge sharing and best practice adoption across sites

Your profile and competencies to succeed

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field
• ~8+ years of experience in automation, manufacturing engineering, or industrial engineering
• Experience in high‑volume automotive manufacturing (seating, assembly, or material handling)
• Experience managing large‑scale capital projects (CapEx) in manufacturing environments
• Strong experience working with automation suppliers/integrators
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross‑functional and global initiatives

Preferred

• Exposure to Industry4.0 / smart manufacturing initiatives
• Prior experience in a COE, advanced manufacturing, or strategy‑driven environment

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship of any kind, now or in the future.