Contract Manager Vehicle Homologation – Expat Japan (M/F/X) (2025-4134)

Function

ROLE

• You will report to the Homologation Operations Teamlead and Operations Manager, and collaborate closely with other homologation engineers, contract managers, and technical support staff.

• Your focus will be the automotive industry, including passenger vehicles, commercial vans, trucks, and automotive components.

• Activities are conducted within the framework of the European Type Approval system (EU) 2018/858 and relevant UN regulations.

• Responsible for managing homologation projects from A to Z: test witnessing, dossier preparation, technical analysis, client communication, and follow-up with approval authorities (Belgium, Luxembourg, Sweden).

• Oversight of testing and reporting at manufacturers’ sites and partner laboratories.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage homologation files and communicate with clients throughout the certification process.

• Analyze reports from external labs and prepare documentation in line with EU/UN requirements.

• Ensure the delivery of approval certificates in collaboration with notified approval authorities.

• Witness approval tests in Japan and other international locations, ensuring correct application of standards.

• Coordinate directly with Japanese manufacturers and maintain strong relationships on site.

• Maintain regular communication with customers, governmental bodies, and internal stakeholders.

• Ensure personal tasks are administratively managed in accordance with internal procedures.

• Stay up to date with evolving legislation and regulatory frameworks.

Profile

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Automotive Engineering or another relevant technical discipline.
• 5–8 years of experience in the automotive sector, preferably with exposure to type approval or compliance processes.
• Strong knowledge of EU 2018/858 and UN Regulations.
• Excellent communication skills, both technical and client-facing.
• Strong organizational skills with an independent, entrepreneurial mindset.
• Proficient in MS Office and project tracking tools.
• Fluent in English, with one additional international language
• Willingness to relocate to Japan under a long-term (3 to 5years) expat assignment.
• Comfortable working in international, multicultural environments.