Mazda North American Operations · 8 hours ago
Program Manager, Crashworthiness
Mazda North American Operations is seeking a Program Manager for Crashworthiness to ensure alignment with safety standards and regulations. The role involves managing crashworthiness compliance testing, maintaining research programs, and representing Mazda in safety partnerships to enhance vehicle safety.
AutomotiveMarketingProduct DesignRetail
Responsibilities
Understand Mazda vehicle safety system strengths and weaknesses, providing comparisons by way of competitor benchmarking as needed, and proposing a strategic approach and roadmap for improvement
Direct evaluations of crash safety systems needed for the above strategic approach, managing laboratory contracts and to execute testing and collect data as needed
Maintain strong working knowledge of all crash test ratings programs, test procedures, and protocols to include anticipated changes or updates to the programs such that Mazda can attain the highest possible ratings
Make recommendations in the nomination and selection of Mazda vehicles for rating of crash safety systems tests, to include laboratory contracting
Attend crash testing, working with MC Crash Safety teams to ensure tests are conducted appropriately and in alignment with manufacturer recommendations
Appropriately manage any invalid or poor test results. Make plans and recommendations to improve crash safety performance assessments as needed
Cascade crash test results internally and work with Mazda Public Relations and Marketing on external messaging, for low and high achievements
Support formulation of a compliance plan toward the use of advanced crash test dummies, pedestrian protection, or other crash safety regulations, test procedures, or voluntary agreements that emerge
Participate in industry working groups, monitoring of regulatory and deregulatory opportunities
Collect and report trends in US highway crashes and studies to identify areas of opportunity for crash safety systems to lead Mazda to its goal of a crash-free society
May include crash data analysis and participation in various US based research programs
Introduce new ideas and improvement opportunities
Respond to requests from Mazda Quality, Accessory, Strategic Planning, Product Planning, Dealer Training, Marketing, Public Relations, and other departments as needed
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Engineering (all disciplines)
Minimum 8+ years of related experience including: Experience in automotive crash testing, crash dummies, and dummy setting, virtual and simulation testing, associated data, research resources, and occupant protection solutions that are under development
Experience in the testing and development of air bags, advanced seat belts, child restraints, capabilities, and the associated testing protocols
Experience developing and maintaining relationships with government and industry representatives
A satisfactory driving record as determined by the Company and a current, valid State driver's license are required
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking with the ability to convey information effectively across diverse cultures. Skilled in speaking clearly and using plain language, particularly when Japanese language translation is required
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with management, cross-functional teams, and external vendors with an awareness and appreciation for cultural diversity
Strategic thinking and advanced decision-making skills
Ability to develop clear, compelling concepts and data-driven recommendations to leadership
Skilled in data analytics and visualization tools – Excel, Tableau, Power BI, etc
Proficiency in computer applications, including Microsoft Office including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook as well as the ability to learn and effectively utilize other software applications used within the Company
Knowledge of automotive systems and how individual components contribute to overall vehicle performance and safety
Ability to maintain strong accuracy and attention to detail in all aspects of work
Positive attitude and willingness to teach, learn, and grow
Preferred
Experience with IIHS, NHTSA, crash testing labs, or similar organizations preferred
Project management experience preferred
Knowledge of FMVSS, the rulemaking process, and voluntary agreement pathways preferred
Company
Mazda North American Operations
Established in Hiroshima, Japan in 1920, Mazda is an international automotive manufacturer, conducting business in nearly 140 countries and regions around the world; known for beloved vehicles including the Mazda CX-5, MX-5 Miata, and others.
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageRecent News
2026-02-03
2026-02-03
2026-01-20
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