We are seeking an experienced R&D Project Manager to lead the successful execution of new product development programs within a growing medical device organization. This role will be responsible for managing projects from early concept and feasibility stages through design transfer, commercialization, and manufacturing launch.
The ideal candidate will combine strong project management skills with a technical engineering background to coordinate cross-functional teams, manage customer relationships, and ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, and aligned with quality and regulatory requirements.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead multiple product development programs through the full project lifecycle, including concept, development, validation, and manufacturing transfer.
- Develop and maintain project schedules, milestones, budgets, and deliverables to ensure successful execution.
- Coordinate cross-functional teams to drive alignment and achieve project objectives.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for customers, providing project updates, technical communication, and issue resolution.
- Partner with Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, and Operations teams to ensure successful product launches.
- Identify project risks, develop mitigation plans, and proactively resolve challenges.
- Lead project meetings, milestone reviews, and status updates with internal and external stakeholders.
- Support design transfer activities to ensure products are manufacturable, scalable, and meet customer expectations.
- Ensure compliance with applicable quality systems, design controls, and regulatory requirements.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives throughout the product development process.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related technical field required.
- 5+ years of engineering experience, with project management or project leadership experience preferred.
- Experience leading new product development or product launch initiatives.
- Experience working in a regulated manufacturing environment, preferably medical device.
- Knowledge of product development processes, design controls, verification/validation, and manufacturing transfer.
- Strong ability to manage cross-functional teams and influence without direct authority.
- Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Experience with project management tools such as Microsoft Project or similar platforms preferred.
Preferred Background
- Medical device product development experience (Class II/Class III preferred).
- Experience working with engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams during product commercialization.
- Experience with injection molding, plastics, tooling, or other manufacturing processes is a plus.
- PMP certification or similar project management credentials preferred.
What This Role Offers
- Opportunity to lead impactful product development programs.
- Strong visibility across engineering, operations, and customer teams.
- Ability to influence product commercialization and manufacturing success.
- Long-term growth opportunity within a growing organization.
Must be eligible to work in the United States without restriction and without the need for current or future sponsorship.
Resumes can be confidentially sent to eli.stader@gogpac.com or call direct at (319)774-8916.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations.
GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.
