Program Manager – Manufacturing

Join a renowned precision manufacturing firm as a dynamic leader overseeing sophisticated machine developments from conception through to customer delivery. Situated in the northwest Chicago suburbs, this hands-on role is integral to our thriving, growth-oriented environment, offering real-time influence within the organization. You’ll work collaboratively with departments such as Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Quality, ensuring that each customized solution not only meets but exceeds client expectations.

With our upcoming transition into a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility and extension from one to two operational shifts, this position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of our manufacturing processes during an exciting expansion phase.

### Key Responsibilities:

- Lead cutting-edge manufacturing programs, navigating all phases from initial engineering to the final client implementation.
- Serve as the chief liaison for clients, managing expectations and overseeing program evaluations.
- Formulate and manage comprehensive schedules, budgets, and milestones, ensuring seamless delivery by optimizing resource allocation and resolving any obstacles.
- Foster synergy across diverse teams, holding them accountable for program timelines and quality targets.
- Proactively identify potential risks, implement strategic solutions to avoid delays, and maintain transparent communication with executive leaders.
- Spearhead new product introductions through established phased-gate methodologies.
- Facilitate the seamless transition of designs into manufacturing, emphasizing hands-on management.
- Ensure adherence to stringent client specifications and quality standards, fostering continuous improvement.

### Qualifications:

- Extensive experience in directing custom engineering projects in environments like machine tools or industrial automation.
- Bachelor’s in Engineering, Manufacturing, Business, or related technical discipline.
- At least 5 years managing manufacturing projects, with a minimum of 2 years in full lifecycle program management.
- Proven expertise in Stage-Gate or similar product development processes.
- Comprehensive understanding of the interaction between Engineering and Operations.
- Demonstrated capability in managing complex, technical projects, with direct customer communication experience.
- Proficient in toolsets like Microsoft Project for comprehensive program management.

### Highly Desirable:

- Expertise in fields such as industrial machinery, robotics, or other high-precision capital equipment.

### Ideal Candidate:

Our ideal candidate combines in-depth technical knowledge with a passion for leading end-to-end project lifecycles. Prior experience in shepherding complex equipment from the drawing board to customer deployment, in a lean business setting, makes you a standout for this transformative role.