Sr Mgr​, Eng Product Definition, SW & Electronics

At Ford Motor Company, we believe freedom of movement drives human progress. Our commitment extends to providing our employees with the freedom to define and realize their dreams. As Ford undergoes a massive digital transformation, evolving into a software and services company, the Industrial System stands as a critical pillar. The technologies we develop and deploy here, particularly within Product Lifecycle Management (PLM), are fundamental to our product development, manufacturing, supply chain, and quality operations, directly impacting our ability to deliver world-class products and achieve our ambitious goals.

We are seeking an experienced Senior PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) Manager to lead the integration of software and hardware systems within our IT ecosystem, oversee prototyping initiatives, and manage studio operations for product design and development. This role is pivotal in driving end-to-end PLM processes, ensuring seamless collaboration across hardware engineering, software development, manufacturing, and supply chain teams. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in PLM platforms (e.g., Siemens Teamcenter and Dassault Systems), with expertise in digital thread implementation, IT integration, and rapid prototyping. You will champion innovative technologies to optimize product lifecycles, from concept to production, in a fast-paced, technology-driven environment.

What you'll do…

•  Lead PLM Strategy and Implementation: Develop and execute PLM roadmaps, including the design, configuration, and deployment of PLM systems to support software/hardware integration. Ensure alignment with business objectives, industry best practices, and emerging technologies.

•  Software/Hardware IT Integration: Oversee the integration of software (e.g., CAD, CAE tools) and hardware components into unified IT platforms. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enable digital twins, data management, and real-time collaboration across the product lifecycle.

•  Prototyping Enterprise Software support: Lead IT software prototyping initiatives, encompassing the research, development, and rigorous testing of innovative software solutions for advanced prototypes for PD.

•  Studio Design: Direct support operations of the prototyping and design studio, including resource allocation, tool selection (e.g., 3D printing, simulation software), and workflow optimization. Foster a creative environment for concept ideation, modeling, and visualization.

•  Process Optimization: Design, document, and maintain PLM standards, processes, and policies. Identify opportunities for automation, data governance, and efficiency improvements in product data management (PDM) and digital thread areas.

•  Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with Software/hardware engineering, manufacturing and supply chain to ensure seamless data flow and system interoperability. 

•  Innovation and Research: Lead the evaluation and prototyping of new technologies, tools, and methodologies. Stay abreast of industry trends in PLM, IoT integration, AI-driven design, and sustainable prototyping.

•  Team Leadership and Development: Mentor junior staff, manage project timelines, budgets, and deliverables. Promote best practices in agile methodologies and continuous improvement.

 

You'll have…

•  Bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field.

•  8+ years of experience in PLM management, with at least 4 years in a senior or leadership role.

•  Proven expertise in PLM platforms Dassault 3DEXPERIENCE.

•  Strong knowledge of Automotive software/hardware integration

•  Experience in prototyping, product data management, and digital thread implementation.

•  Familiarity with design studio operations, including CAD/CAM tools, simulation software.

•  Excellent project management skills, with certifications like PMP or Agile/Scrum preferred.

•  Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive complex projects to completion.

 

You may also have…

Experience in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, or consumer electronics.

•  Proficiency in programming/scripting (e.g., Python, Java) for PLM customization.

•  Knowledge of emerging technologies like AI/ML for predictive prototyping or blockchain for supply chain traceability.

•  Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a track record of innovative solutions.

•  Excellent communication skills, capable of presenting technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.

 

What you'll receive in return…

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