Project Manager- Robotic Welding

Overview

Panasonic Connect's Process Automation division is seeking an experienced Project Manager - Welding Systems to provide project management and technical sales support for all welding turnkey systems, standard pre-engineered systems, and standalone robot products across the USA and Mexico. Based in Columbus, OH, the selected candidate will be responsible for executing project scope according to specified quality standards, agreed lead times, and within budget - across a dynamic portfolio that may include simultaneous active engagements.

At Panasonic Connect, we connect the power of people and technology to change work, advance society and help connect to tomorrow. Empathy, results, relentlessness and teamwork are the foundations of the Panasonic Connect Culture. Our mission is to elevate the employee experience by empowering individuals to use their voice and have a positive impact on our business.

Responsibilities

Project Management

* Maintain overall responsibility for project Profit and Loss under the Welding Manager; typically manage multiple projects simultaneously while supporting Business Development activities.

* Regularly report project and staffing issues to the GM of Delivery for Engineering and Project Management.

* Manage client expectations and interface with client personnel, working to build positive, long-lasting relationships across all accounts.

* Collaborate with system integrators, distributors, partners, subcontractors, engineers, Japan colleagues, architects, and consultants to deliver complete system solutions on time and within budget.

* Provide a high level of leadership and guidance to field teams.

* Work with clients to achieve satisfactory project completion and obtain final acceptance and sign-off on all projects.

* Maintain close coordination with Sales, Operations, and Service organizations throughout project life cycles.

* Ensure proper documentation of all project aspects, including safety compliance, timelines, drawings, and user manuals.

Financial and Subcontractor Management

* Operate within project Profit and Loss budgets.

* Manage all subcontractors to on-time, on-budget, in-scope performance and report results to the Welding Manager.

* Determine staff needs and technical skill requirements to ensure project performance meets customer expectations and Panasonic budget requirements.

* Understand scope of work to create and submit change orders for out-of-scope activities.

* Build and lead winning teams to execute projects on time, on budget, and to complete customer satisfaction with minimal supervision.

* Write scopes of work for subcontractors; evaluate and negotiate those scopes accordingly.

Business Development

* Act independently to support customers and sales in winning unsolicited project opportunities.

* Understand technical, operational, management, and sales-related issues facing customers and staff in the Automotive market.

* Travel as needed to support active projects and sales opportunities.

Engineering Support

* Support technically challenging engineering requirements involving sophisticated software and hardware on large, technically diverse projects.

* Assist with customer design requirements from conceptual design through the As-Built phase.

* Maintain technical capabilities in the following areas: robotics and systems, welding machines, PLC programming, automation and control systems, and interactive display control systems.

* Follow established Engineering and Project Management standards and guidelines as applicable to the specific customer's needs.

* Support sales staff on technical aspects of arc welding solutions, including electrical and mechanical machine component specifications.

* Perform reach, access, and cycle time studies.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

* Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Automation, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field, combined with relevant experience in the welding industry.

* Mechanical Engineering or Mechanical Project Management experience preferred.

* Prior experience managing complex welding solutions and jigs integration in the automotive market strongly desired.

* Working knowledge of arc welding processes, robot programming, system controls (PLC, HMI), pneumatics, and communication protocols.

* Ability to read and interpret 2D and 3D system layout drawings, electrical prints, pneumatic prints, and fixture design drawings, including tolerance stack-up, tuning, and sensor functions.

* Proficiency with CAD/CAM software or Solid Works.

* Provide administration and documentation management for reports related to project execution and deliveries; experience creating forecasts and Gantt charts preferred.

Key Competencies

* Ability to work effectively with subcontractors - including electrical and mechanical contractors, engineers, and design professionals - in high-pressure, dynamic production environments.

* Capable of solving complex project and engineering challenges with minimal assistance; able to focus on and promptly address…