The Program Manager leads customer tooling and manufacturing programs from order receipt through approval and launch. This role ensures programs meet customer, quality, cost, and delivery targets by coordinating cross-functional activities and managing internal and external resources. The Program Manager plays a key role in communication, execution, and continuous improvement within medical injection molding operations.
Key Responsibilities
Program Management
- Plan, execute, and control assigned tooling and manufacturing programs through all project phases.
- Develop detailed project plans, budgets, and schedules using Smartsheet or MS Project.
- Track progress, manage risks, and ensure projects remain within scope and cost parameters.
- Provide regular status updates to leadership and customers.
Cross-Functional Coordination
- Collaborate with Engineering, Tooling, Quality, Supply Chain, and Production teams to ensure program deliverables are met.
- Lead make/buy decisions and oversee tool design, build, and validation activities.
- Ensure alignment between program objectives and manufacturing readiness.
Customer Interaction
- Serve as the primary liaison for assigned customers throughout the program lifecycle.
- Conduct regular customer meetings, report progress, and resolve issues promptly.
- Manage program documentation, including contracts, specifications, and meeting notes.
Process & Quality
- Ensure all projects comply with ISO 13485 and FDA regulatory standards.
- Work closely with Quality to address nonconformances and implement corrective actions.
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and post-project reviews.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or related field.
- 5+ years of experience in program or project management within injection molding or medical manufacturing.
- Strong understanding of tooling, molding, and manufacturing processes.
- Proficiency in project management tools (Smartsheet, MS Project) and ERP systems (IQMS, Epicor).
- Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
- PMP certification or equivalent experience preferred.
Traits & Competencies
- Detail-oriented, organized, and proactive.
- Strong sense of urgency and accountability.
- Collaborative and customer-focused.
- Adaptable and motivated to drive results.
Travel: Up to 20%. Physical Requirements: Must be able to navigate manufacturing areas as required.
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.
