Job Title: Project Manager – Electrical Control Panel Manufacturing
Position Summary
The Project Manager is responsible for leading the end-to-end introduction of new electrical control panel and power distribution panel assemblies from concept through initial prototype builds to production launch. This role ensures projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet quality, safety, and customer requirements. The ideal candidate will drive cross-functional coordination between engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and quality teams to achieve successful product launches in a fast-paced industrial environment.
Key Responsibilities
Project Management & Execution
- Lead all phases of the projects from estimating the project, negotiate pricing, release drawings to shop, release the bill of material to purchasing, follow production of the build and shipment.
- Develop and maintain detailed project plans, timelines, and deliverables.
- Track project milestones and parts shortages, identify risks, and implement mitigation strategies.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for internal stakeholders and customers regarding project status.
Cross-Functional Coordination
- Collaborate with electrical and mechanical design engineers, production, procurement, quality, and sales teams.
- Coordinate with supply chain to ensure timely sourcing of components (custom sheet metal, wiring harnesses, circuit breakers, contactors, relays, controllers, PLCs, connectors, etc.).
Manufacturing Readiness
- Drive Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) initiatives.
- Ensure production documentation is complete and accurate (BOMs, assembly drawings, custom parts drawings, wire lists, test procedures, Quality inspection documents, work instructions, etc.).
- Oversee pilot builds, first article inspections, and validation activities.
- Support transition from prototype to full-scale production.
Quality & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with applicable industry standards (e.g., UL 508A, NEC, SEMI standards).
- Coordinate validation and testing processes, including FAT (Factory Acceptance Testing).
- Address and resolve quality issues during NPI phase.
Cost & Schedule Management
- Monitor project budgets and control costs throughout the NPI lifecycle.
- Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or performance.
- Ensure adherence to deadlines and customer delivery commitments.
Continuous Improvement
- Capture lessons learned and drive improvements in NPI processes.
- Support implementation of Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
Qualifications
Education
- Preferred but not mandatory; Bachelor’s degree or 2-year Associate degree in Electromechanical, Mechatronics, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering preferred, or equivalent related work experience.
Experience
- Preferred; 3+ years of project management experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
- Experience with electrical control panels, industrial automation, or power distribution systems strongly preferred.
Technical Skills
- Understanding of the process of assembling mechanical and/or electrical equipment, including knowledge of basic tooling, electrical schematics, assembly drawings, and control systems.
- Knowledge of relevant standards (UL 508A, NFPA 79, IEC).
- Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and PLM tools.
- Ability to review BOMs, engineering drawings, and specifications.
Project Management Skills
- Strong knowledge of project management
- Proficiency with project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Smartsheet), and other MS365 applications
Soft Skills
- Excellent leadership and cross-functional collaboration skills.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities.
- High attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to be extremely organized in order to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- PMP or equivalent project management certification.
- Experience in UL panel shops or custom panel manufacturing.
- Knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies.
Work Environment
- Combination of office and manufacturing floor environment.
- May require occasional travel to customer sites or suppliers.
- Hands-on involvement during pilot builds and product validation phases.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- On-time project delivery
- First-pass yield during pilot and launch
- Budget adherence
- Customer satisfaction and project success rate
Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance bonuses
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Retirement plan (401k with company match)
- Paid time off and holidays
- Professional development opportunities
