Project Manager III

Job Description:

Summary:

• Senior project manager to support various projects for Client's Advanced Optics (AO) division.

• Responsible for leading technical teams and working with internal and/or external customers to define and execute programs and meet customer needs.

• Defines and executes overall program plans, including project schedules, budgets, and people resource needs, to enable programs to scale appropriately in each stage to meet technical, schedule, and cost targets.

• Drives progress from initiation through delivery, reconfirming each program's value proposition at each stage, and recommending the progression (or elimination) of programs at each stage to leadership, as appropriate.

• Constantly monitors for changes in customer requirements/Product or other assumptions and determines the impact on program strategy, business case, business model, predicted level of risk, resource requirements, speed, and value proposition.

• Works with customers during each stage to keep them engaged, manage program Product, and interpret their perception of the product being developed.

• Sets key program messages and manages the information flow related to program direction, issues, needs, and progress with key program constituencies including business leadership, corporate leadership, customers, and team members.

• Develops and manages a compelling business case (including P&L and balance sheet implications) and value proposition for the product relative to the division’s strategy, market needs, and competition.

• Identifies commercial, technical, and manufacturing levers to improve the program's business case.

• Oversees product testing and evaluation to confirm the initial value proposition, build fundamental understanding of the technology that enables continued differentiation, and ensure manufacturing implementation of requirements are met.

• Identifies potential origins of strategic control and ensures that intellectual property is protected.

• Utilizes Client's Tollgate process to direct program activities.

Required Education:

• BS in Engineering - Optical, Mechanical or related field (or experience in optics) (preferred), Associate's Degree with significant relevant experience (minimum).

Required Years and Area of Experience:

• 5–7 years with proven record of executing technical programs

Required Skills:

• Project management / leadership

• Ability to lead technical teams in resolution of problems and execution of strategy

• Ability to interact with customers, building strong relationships for success

• Ability to work cross functionally (commercial, technical, technology)

• Able to track and manage program spending, revenue, resources, and schedule

• Proficient use of Microsoft Office Tools (PowerPoint, Excel, Word, Project)

• Able to set project direction using project management tools (i.e., MS Project, risk assessment, Product management, etc.)

• Able to make sound decisions by blending analytical thinking with practical judgment

• Ability to discern technical approaches by asking the right questions of the team

• Strong formal and informal communication skills

• Ability to articulate clear direction, risks, and program purpose across multiple organizational levels (management to project team)

• Able to define, prioritize, and defend milestones

• Applies appropriate process discipline and controls, including modeling appropriate behaviors to teams

Desired Skills:

• MS degree or higher in optics

• Ability to assist in the organization of systems for program management

• Familiarity with Client's innovation process

• Knowledge and experience working with the S&T organization or other research groups

• Experience with Stage 3 to Stage 5 transfer to manufacturing

• Experience with SAP/manufacturing environment

Soft Skills (Communication/Team/Leadership):

• Ability to articulate clear direction and program purpose

• Entrepreneurial attitude and approach toward the creation of new programs

• Creative problem solver

• Desire to create products and processes that grow the AO platform

• Process discipline oriented; follows established protocols and processes and evaluates opportunities for improvements

• Organized, rigorous attention to detail; self-starter/motivated

• Experience leading internal or external technical teams in the creation of new products or services; demonstrated ability to work with customers is a strong advantage