Project Manager

Position Summary

Kenmode is seeking a detail-oriented and organized Metal Stamping Project Manager to coordinate and oversee new tooling programs, engineering changes (ECs), and prototype projects from initial purchase order receipt through final customer approval and production readiness.

The successful candidate will serve as a key liaison between customers and internal departments, ensuring projects are completed on schedule, customer requirements are met, and all necessary documentation is accurate and maintained throughout the project lifecycle.

This position requires a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, strong written and verbal communication skills, the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, and the technical aptitude to identify and resolve project-related issues. The ideal candidate will have a background in manufacturing technology, metal stamping, or machine shop operations.

Key Responsibilities

Project Management and Coordination

• Coordinate new tooling programs, engineering changes (ECs), and prototype projects from receipt of the purchase order through final customer approval.

• Coordinate the shipment of first article samples to customers, ensuring all required quality control documentation accompanies the shipment and is delivered to the appropriate customer representative.

• Develop and implement preliminary packaging solutions for new products. Evaluate existing packaging options and coordinate the purchase of specialized packaging when necessary to ensure product integrity during shipment. Consider customer-specific requirements, including weight restrictions, package quantities, and handling requirements.

• Coordinate activities across all departments to ensure new tooling, engineering changes, and prototype projects remain on schedule. Communicate schedule delays or potential issues to customers, the Engineering Manager, and applicable customer representatives.

• Serve as the technical liaison between customers and Kenmode personnel regarding new tooling programs and related engineering activities.

• Prepare project documentation and organize and conduct Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) and project kickoff meetings with applicable department heads.

• Assist in identifying and resolving issues resulting from design review meetings and ensure appropriate follow-up.

• Keep customers informed of project progress through regular status updates and written progress reports.

Engineering and Technical Support

• Represent Engineering in the part change proposal evaluation process. Identify potential issues and bring them to the Engineering Manager's attention for resolution.

• Maintain Engineering records and documentation related to engineering changes, ensuring completed EC evaluation forms are returned to the appropriate Customer Service Representative once outstanding issues have been resolved.

• Prepare and coordinate quotations for the majority of prototype requests for quotation (RFQs).

• Monitor outside vendors and subcontractors performing services related to assigned projects, including heat treating, plating, deburring, and tooling manufacturing, to ensure requirements and schedules are met.

Documentation and Quality Systems

• Manage document control for each new project, ensuring all required documentation is completed, properly approved, and maintained throughout the project lifecycle. Responsibilities include contract review of purchase orders and quotations, product drawing approvals, project documentation, and obtaining final customer approval prior to production release.

• Maintain training as an Internal ISO Auditor and conduct periodic internal audits throughout the year to verify compliance with company procedures and quality system requirements.

• Ensure project records and documentation are complete, accurate, and readily available for internal and customer review.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Successful completion of secondary school (high school diploma or equivalent).

• Technical education in manufacturing technology, manufacturing processes, machine shop operations, or a related technical field.

• Minimum of two (2) years of work experience in a manufacturing environment or machine shop.

• Good written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with customers, suppliers, and internal personnel.

• Good technical understanding of manufacturing processes, preferably supported by both formal technical education and practical work experience.

• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and priorities simultaneously.

• Excellent attention to detail and the ability to maintain accurate project documentation and records.

• Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word and Excel.

Preferred Qualifications and Additional Skills

• Associate degree in Manufacturing Technology, Business Administration, or a related field.

• Experience in metal stamping, tooling, or manufacturing project coordination.

• Working knowledge of CNC equipment, lathes, and welding equipment.

• Previous experience coordinating tooling programs, engineering changes, prototypes, or new product launches.

• Experience with APQP, first article inspections, quality documentation, and customer approval processes.

• Previous certification or training as an ISO Internal Auditor.

• Familiarity with manufacturing quality systems and continuous improvement initiatives.

Key Competencies

The ideal candidate will demonstrate the following abilities:

• Communication: Clearly and professionally communicate technical information, project updates, and potential concerns to customers, suppliers, and internal personnel.

• Organization: Maintain accurate records, manage project documentation, and ensure important deadlines and deliverables are met.

• Multitasking: Effectively coordinate multiple projects at different stages of completion while managing competing priorities.

• Technical Aptitude: Understand manufacturing processes and recognize potential production, tooling, and quality-related issues.

• Problem-Solving: Identify project challenges, coordinate appropriate corrective actions, and follow through to resolution.

• Customer Focus: Maintain positive customer relationships through timely communication, responsiveness, and accountability.

• Teamwork: Work collaboratively with Engineering, Production, Quality, Sales, Purchasing, and other departments to achieve project objectives.

Work Environment

This position operates primarily in an office environment but requires regular interaction with manufacturing personnel and the production floor. The individual must be comfortable working in a manufacturing environment and communicating with employees at all levels of the organization.

Hours and Salary

• 1st shift Mon-Fri
• Starting salary $90,084, depending on experience