Project Manager, Operations Management, Project & Program Management

The Project Manager at Lywood Automation leads the successful execution of electrical automation and controls projects from start to finish. This individual is accountable for the full lifecycle of their assigned projects, ensuring alignment between internal teams, delivering exceptional client experiences, and driving both operational and financial success. The Project Manager serves as the primary point of contact for the client, sets the pace for internal collaboration, manages budgets and schedules, and ensures each project meets Lywood’s standards of excellence.

This position is also responsible for ensuring reliable system performance through the coordinated execution of preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and emergency response for PLCs, SCADA interfaces, control systems, and instrumentation. The ideal candidate is proactive, organized, financially savvy, and committed to owning project success.

• Take full ownership of assigned projects, leading them from kickoff through completion with accountability for schedule, budget, quality, and client satisfaction.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, to establish trust and clear communication throughout the project.
• Lead internal coordination across departments to ensure alignment on scope, timelines, and deliverables.
• Set and manage expectations with clients and internal teams, ensuring all parties are informed and aligned.
• Anticipate challenges, identify risks early, and lead problem-solving efforts to keep projects on track.
• Escalate critical issues to leadership only when necessary and with recommended solutions in hand.
• Develop and manage project budgets, ensuring financial goals are met and profitability is maintained.
• Monitor job costs, track variances, and take corrective actions when needed.
• Oversee change orders, purchase orders, and invoicing to ensure financial accuracy and alignment.
• Report on financial performance and forecasting to the leadership team on a regular basis.
• Plan and oversee all phases of the project lifecycle to ensure on-time, on-budget delivery.
• Ensure all work meets Lywood Automation’s standards for quality and precision.
• Coordinate with vendors, subcontractors, and internal teams to execute the project plan.
• Maintain organized and up-to-date documentation, including schedules, reports, and meeting notes.
• Conduct project closeouts and lessons learned reviews to drive continuous improvement.
• Lead regular project meetings with clients and internal stakeholders, documenting action items and holding teams accountable.
• Promote strong communication across all departments to ensure clarity and cohesion.
• Build positive, trust-based relationships with clients and partners that reflect Lywood’s values and professionalism.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Project Management, Engineering, or a related field.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification or equivalent is a plus.
• 3+ years of experience in project coordination or management, preferably in automation, construction, manufacturing, or a related industry.
• Demonstrated success managing project budgets, schedules, and deliverables.
• Strong understanding of project financials and cost control.

• Ownership & Accountability
• Client Relationship Management
• Strong Communication & Follow-Through
• Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking
• Results-Driven Execution
• Technical Understanding of Automation Systems