Automation Project Manager

Forvia, a sustainable mobility technology leader

We pioneer technology for mobility experience that matter 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 (Year
1):
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 (Year 1 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 Cap Ex 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 Cap Ex) 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 (Cap Ex) in manufacturing environments
• Strong experience working with automation suppliers/integrators
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional and global initiativesPreferred
• Exposure to Industry 4.0 / 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

What we can do for youAt Forvia, you will find an engaging and dynamic environment where you can contribute to the development of sustainable mobility leading technologies.  We are the seventh-largest global automotive supplier, employing more than 157,000 people in more than 40 countries which makes a lot of opportunity for career development. We welcome energetic and agile people who can thrive in a fast-changing environment.

People who share our strong values. Team players with a collaborative mindset and a passion to deliver high standards for our clients. Lifelong learners. High performers. Globally minded people who aspire to work in a transforming industry, where excellence, speed, and quality count. We cultivate a learning environment, dedicating tools and resources to ensure we remain at the forefront of mobility.  

Our people enjoy an average of more than 22 hours of online and in-person training within FORVIA University (five campuses around the world) We offer a multicultural environment that values diversity and…