Product Manager-Brakes

We are looking for a Brakes Product Manager to lead the end-to-end lifecycle of our Rotor and Friction product lines within the First Brands Braking portfolio. This office-based role focuses on product and engineering functions, supporting the launch of new programs, coordinating cross-functional activities, and driving product excellence across the business.

• Lead the NPI (New Product Introduction) process and manage product coverage and feature differentiation across sales channels.
• Drive product lifecycle management and strategic planning for brake rotors, drums, and friction products.
• Develop and implement standard operating principles for new product introduction.
• Manage the process to create and set up new part numbers.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Development, Marketing Communications, and Data Management teams to define go-to-market strategies and ensure product accuracy.
• Identify customer requirements and support the RFQ process.
• Ensure accurate product data entry in ERP systems (Oracle) and coordinate with data teams for publication.
• Work with suppliers and manufacturing sites to source, review, and develop components.
• Cross-train internal teams (Sales, Customer Service, Forecasting, Planning, Finance) on product attributes and positioning.
• Support ongoing priorities and initiatives during the first year, including new product launches and catalog development.

• Office-based product and engineering responsibilities.
• Reviewing and analyzing automotive components—must be able to identify parts, understand their function, and interpret what they are seeing.
• Managing project timelines, data accuracy, and communication with cross-functional and remote/global teams.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical Engineering strongly preferred).

• Approximately 1 year out of college or early-career professional.
• Strong understanding or interest in automotive braking systems and automotive repair.
• Familiarity with multi-step approval processes for product design, development, and launch.
• Experience with reverse engineering for aftermarket products is a plus.
• Knowledge of Solid Works or similar CAD tools.
• Intermediate/advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and Power BI.
• Understanding of industry methodologies such as APQP, DFMEA, FMEA.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Analytical problem-solving techniques (Fishbone, 5-Why).
• Ability to work in a cross-functional environment and with global teams in different time zones.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.

• Seniority level
  :
  Associate
• Employment type
  :
  Full-time
• Job function
  :
  Design and Engineering
• Industries
  :
  Motor Vehicle Manufacturing and Industrial Machinery Manufacturing
• Location
  :
  Buffalo Grove, IL
• Salary
  : $-$