Tire and Wheel Engineering Manager

Overview

The Tire and Wheel Engineer is responsible for the end-to-end readiness, execution, and stabilization of the Tire and Wheel process at Piston Automotive Canada in Mississauga.  This position requires strong system thinking, the ability to manage high automation and product complexity, and close coordination across Operations, Maintenance, Engineering, Quality, Materials, and IT. The role is not about firefighting—it is about designing and holding a robust system that protects the customer and the plant. 

Piston Automotive wasn’t just founded to make things. It was founded to make things better. And that begins with building better teams solely dedicated to achieving excellence at every level of execution through a combination of experience, expertise, and a deep seeded passion for what we do. Our assemblies consistently set the standard because our people consistently raise the bar.

Responsibilities

• Own Tire and Wheel launch readiness across layout, work content, flow and recovery.  
• Ensure APQP, Process Book, PFMEA, and Control Plans are fully aligned and executable.
• Translate learnings from build, simulations, and benchmarking (e.g., KTP) into concrete process decisions.
• Manage Tire and Wheel product mix and complexity, including point‑of‑use storage and picking accuracy.
• Ensure scrap, rework, and exceptions do not disrupt broadcast flow to Ford.
• Establish and enforce clear rework strategy, limits, and disposition processes.
• Serve as the technical owner for Tire & Wheel equipment and automation.
• Ensure critical quality decisions (e.g., conicity, TPMS) are system-driven, not judgment‑based.
• Partner with Maintenance and Engineering to:
  • Improve diagnostics and recovery time
  • Define preventive maintenance and reliability strategies 
  • Identify and validate critical spare parts for launch and SOP
• Lead response to Tire & Wheel quality issues, hotshots, and urgent customer requests.
• Ensure clear ownership, response timing, and escalation paths.
• Support MPA alignment related to:
  • Containment and sorting responsibility
  • Scrap and rework cost ownership 
  • Response time expectations and data sharing
• Other duties as assigned  

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of assembly requirements for all Automated manufacturing Systems and equipment-intensive processes.      
• Experience managing high‑mix, broadcast‑driven operations.
• Ability to design processes that force the right decisions through systems and controls.
• Structured problem‑solving mindset (APQP, PFMEA, root cause analysis).
• Ability to anticipate risk and act proactively.
• Comfortable leading cross‑functional discussions and driving alignment.
• Clear, disciplined decision‑making under launch pressure.

Preferred Qualifications

• Automotive manufacturing experience, ideally with Tire & Wheel, chassis, or highly automated assembly.
• Experience in (FPV, CPV, SOP).
• Experience working with OEM customers in a broadcast environment.

Piston Automotive, part of the Piston Group family of companies, is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace that values the unique contributions of every employee. We encourage all candidates to apply for positions that match their skills and capabilities, ensuring equal consideration without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. For any questions regarding job opportunities or the application process, please reach out to us at [email protected]. We are committed to providing accommodations for individuals with disabilities during the job search and application process, reinforcing our commitment to inclusivity for all job seekers.