Project Manager, Operations Manager, Manufacturing Engineer

Project Manager (Automotive Manufacturing)

We are seeking a Project Manager to support a fast-paced automotive manufacturing environment with a strong focus on casting operations and secondary/value-add processes. This role is a key cross-functional position responsible for coordinating efforts across Engineering, Procurement, Outsourcing/Value-Add Operations, and Program Management to ensure projects move forward on time, within scope, and aligned to business objectives.

This is a chance to step into a highly visible role with a well-established manufacturing organization that is investing in its future. You will help lead important initiatives, partner across key functions, and play a critical role in delivering projects that matter.

Key Responsibilities:

Cross-Functional Project Coordination

• Serve as the primary point of coordination between Engineering, Procurement, Value-Add/Outsourcing, and Program Management.
• Align teams on project objectives, timelines, deliverables, and priorities.
• Facilitate communication across departments to ensure smooth handoffs and execution.
• Monitor project milestones, identify risks, and escalate issues to stakeholders as needed.

Project Execution and Program Support

• Track and report progress on key projects and initiatives related to casting manufacturing and secondary operations.
• Support project planning and execution to ensure timelines are realistic and achievable.
• Coordinate with program leadership to maintain alignment between project requirements and operational capabilities.
• Help drive accountability for deadlines and deliverables across involved functions.

Supplier and Outsourcing Integration

• Partner with Procurement and value-add/outsourcing teams to identify, onboard, and coordinate third-party suppliers for services such as machining, finishing, and post-casting operations.
• Ensure outsourced services meet quality, cost, and delivery expectations.
• Support supplier collaboration to resolve issues and maintain project momentum.

Engineering and Manufacturability Collaboration

• Work closely with engineering teams during design and development phases to support manufacturability, sourcing, and cost considerations.
• Contribute to Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and value engineering initiatives.
• Help ensure engineering designs are aligned with manufacturing processes and supplier capabilities.

Procurement and Sourcing Support

• Coordinate with procurement teams to support timely sourcing of materials and external services.
• Align procurement activity with project schedules and production requirements.
• Help bridge communication between technical and purchasing teams to avoid delays.

Continuous Improvement

• Identify opportunities to improve project execution, workflow efficiency, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to casting, post-processing, and project coordination processes.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably within automotive, metal casting, or heavy industry.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, procurement/sourcing operations, and project management fundamentals.
• Solid experience in automotive Quality Systems
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional efforts and influence teams without direct authority.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency with project management tools such as MS Project, Smartsheet, or similar platforms.
• Experience working with ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, or equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a casting facility, foundry, or metal-forming environment.
• Familiarity with CAD systems and PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) tools.
• Experience supporting projects involving outsourced machining, finishing, or secondary manufacturing operations.

Work Environment / Additional Information

• Combination of office (on-site and remote) and shop floor work.
• Occasional travel to suppliers, customers, or other operating sites may be required.