Program Manager

Are you a dynamic engineer with a passion for seeing projects through from concept to completion? Do you thrive as the primary technical liaison, driving complex product launches on time and within budget? Join our team!

About the Role

Reporting to the Engineering Manager, the successful candidate will own new product launches as well as the successful launch and implementation of all products for assigned customers from "cradle to grave." This is a critical, hands-on role requiring a strong balance of technical expertise, program management skills, and customer-facing communication.

Key Responsibilities and Essential Duties

The Program Manager is responsible for managing the entire product lifecycle for assigned customers and products, ensuring all objectives are met.

• Program Ownership & Customer Relations:
• Own overall program responsibilities, including developing and maintaining strong working relationships with assigned customers.
• Ensure all project activities, including tooling and equipment, are completed on time, within budget, and at the quoted margins.
• Be the main technical interface with the customer through feasibility, quote, launch, and production phases, and manage the transition communication to full production.
• Responsible for all programs still in the launch phase until the product is in full production.
• Technical & Planning Management:
• Determine product feasibility with input from appropriate team members, including Development Engineering.
• Lead technical reviews with customers to evaluate new opportunities and provide solutions for form, fit, and function; prints, tolerancing, and feasibility.
• Support Sales by providing production rates, suitable materials, and manufacturing processes to develop the quoting strategy.
• Prepare, update, and maintain multiple project timelines, as well as internal program reviews.
• Provide support for tooling and equipment to be specified, quoted, sourced, built, and released to production.
• Manage the creation, implementation, and completion of Engineering Change Orders (ECOs), including color changes.
• Advise Sales when changes are made to newly released and legacy product that may require updated pricing.
• Documentation & Cost:
• Gather necessary information for the completion of the New Product Launch, Bills of Materials (BOMs), Quality Documentation, and Process Specifications.
• Evaluate cost and profitability for potential cost savings.
• Operational & Culture:
• Maintain a clean and organized work area; follow daily housekeeping and 5S standards.
• Promote a culture and attitude of continuous improvement, working to make the company more efficient, safe, and enjoyable.

Qualifications and Requirements

Minimum Requirements

• Experience: Minimum of 3 years of related experience required.
• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in engineering preferred; however, a combination of experience and education will be considered in lieu of a degree.

Required Strengths

• Demonstrated accountability and ownership.
• Excellent problem-solving and interpersonal skills with a proven ability to manage conflict professionally.
• Strong Leadership skills in working with cross-functional teams to meet project goals.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Outlook, Excel).
• CAD software proficiency required; AutoCAD experience preferred.
• Blueprint reading required; GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) understanding preferred.
• Excellent organizational and follow-up skills.
• Strong communication skills (verbal, written, and presentation).
• Experience with Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP) activities.

Preferred Strengths

• Proficiency with Microsoft Project.
• PMI Certification (Project Management Institute).

Work Environment and Physical Demands

• Must be able to lift and/or move up to 50 lbs.
• Safety glasses, hearing protection, and closed-toe shoes must be worn on the production floor.
• Some infrequent overnight travel is required.

Ready to take ownership of challenging and rewarding launches? Apply today!