Responsibilities
- Overall coordination and management of assigned projects, including progress, quality, cost, and client relations.
- Lead APQP and PPAP processes to ensure full compliance with automotive customer requirements and TS16949/IATF 16949 standards.
- Identify, assess, and mitigate project risks; maintain a risk register with actionable mitigation plans.
- Monitor project P&L and BOM costs; drive cost reduction initiatives to improve profitability.
- Serve as the primary customer interface for technical and commercial communications, including regular project reviews and change order management.
- Lead cross-functional teams (engineering, NPI, production, quality, procurement) from project kick-off through to mass production.
- Manage engineering changes (ECO/ECN), including impact assessment on cost, schedule, and documentation, plus customer approval.
- Plan and oversee prototype and pilot run builds to ensure alignment with customer specifications and delivery deadlines.
- Supervise a team of technical staff to ensure smooth operation, delivery, and completion of local projects in a professional and efficient manner.
- Manage new development and redevelopment projects by liaising with the R&D engineering team.
- Identify and source new products and suppliers in line with business needs.
- Create and maintain comprehensive project documentation (BOM, DFMEA, PFMEA, control plans, test reports) per ISO/TS requirements.
- Lead NPI transition from development to manufacturing, ensuring production line, fixture, and test equipment readiness.
- Monitor project performance during early production ramp-up; track yield rates and drive corrective actions.
- Assist in any ad-hoc tasks when necessary.
Requirements:
Education & Experience
- University/college graduate with a degree in Electronics, Mechanical, or Software Engineering, or a related discipline.
- At least 8 years of working experience in the EMS business, especially in In-Vehicle Ambient Light System or Infotainment System project management.
- Minimum 3-5 years of experience working directly with Japanese automotive customers (e.g., Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Denso).
Language Skills
- Excellent command of spoken and written English and Japanese (MUST) , plus Cantonese and Mandarin.
Technical Knowledge
- Experienced in and familiar with IATF 16949:2016 (or TS16949) operations and processes for automotive manufacturing.
- Knowledge of DFM/DFA, SMT/PCBA manufacturing processes, and ESD/MSD handling standards.
Project Management Capabilities
- PMP certification is preferable; CSM or Agile certification is a plus.
- Capable of handling multiple projects independently.
- Develop detailed project plans to monitor and track progress.
- Ensure all projects are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget.
- Create and maintain comprehensive project documentation.
- Coordinate internal resources and third parties/vendors for flawless project execution.
Soft Skills
- Strong negotiation, conflict resolution, and problem-solving skills.
- Proven ability to work under high-pressure environments with tight deadlines.
- Excellent presentation and reporting skills for senior management and customers.
- Good communication and coordination skills between overseas customers and factory operations.
Sourcing & Supply Chain
- Having a good sourcing network with suppliers, vendors, and factories is a plus.
- Experience with component obsolescence management and EOL (End-of-Life) planning.
- Familiarity with customs/import-export regulations for electronic goods.
Working Conditions
- Must stay at the Dongguan factory 5 days a week.
- Overseas travel (Japan, Europe, US, or other Asian countries) is acceptable.
- Willingness to work flexible hours to accommodate time zone differences with overseas customers.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Project, JIRA, or equivalent project management tools.
- Valid passport with ability to obtain necessary visas.
Certifications (Preferred but not mandatory)
- Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt
- IATF 16949 Internal Auditor