Program Manager

Program ManagerThe Program Manager is responsible for leading assigned New Product Development (NPD) projects from purchase order through production readiness. This role coordinates cross-functional activities with customers, engineering, manufacturing, tooling, quality, supply chain, sales, and operations to ensure new injection molds, parts, and assemblies are developed, qualified, and launched on time, within scope, and to customer specifications.Key AccountabilitiesManage assigned NPD projects from purchase order through production-ready releaseEstablish project scope, milestones, timelines, deliverables, and customer expectationsProvide regular project updates, maintain action trackers, and escalate risks or barriers as neededCoordinate with manufacturing engineering, tooling, quality, supply chain, sales, and operations to support successful project executionSupport tooling activities including new tools, repairs, engineering changes, fixtures, outsourcing, and on-time deliveryTrack project performance, timing, open issues, and key metrics related to launch readinessEnsure smooth transition of projects from NPD into production through clear communication and cross-functional alignmentKey ResponsibilitiesServe as the primary point of contact for assigned customer programs during the NPD processDevelop and maintain project schedules, timelines, milestone trackers, and launch documentationLead internal project meetings and ensure action items, owners, and due dates are clearly defined and followed throughCoordinate customer communications, project updates, open issue resolution, and follow-up on required informationPartner with Process, Manufacturing, and Quality Engineers to support mold trials, process development, validation, and production readiness activitiesWork with tooling teams and external suppliers to track tool builds, engineering changes, repairs, fixtures, and related deliverablesCollaborate with quality, production, purchasing, and supply chain to ensure materials, documentation, inspections, and approvals are completed on timeIdentify project risks, timing concerns, cost impacts, and resource constraints, and communicate escalation needs to leadershipSupport quoting, estimating, sales, and customer development activities by providing technical and program-related inputContribute to continuous improvement of NPD processes, project tracking methods, and communication toolsQualities for SuccessDemonstrates Seaway Plastics Core Values: We are customer focused, We execute, We win together, We are respectfulBachelor's degree in engineering, business, project management, or a related technical field preferred; equivalent experience will be considered5+ years of experience in plastics injection molding, contract manufacturing, medical device manufacturing, or a related technical manufacturing environment preferredExperience managing customer-facing projects from concept or purchase order through production launchKnowledge of program management methods, project planning, risk tracking, and milestone management; PMP certification preferred but not requiredProficiency with project management tools such as Smartsheet or Microsoft Project, as well as ERP/MRP systemsExcellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to influence and coordinate internal and external stakeholdersExperience with secondary operations such as sonic welding, heat staking, pick and place, pad printing, light assembly, and automation preferredComprehensive skills using Microsoft Office programs; basic CAD knowledge such as SolidWorks or Creo is a plusStrong knowledge of manufacturing operations, scheduling, procurement, quality systems, and production launch requirementsAbility to understand project financials, tooling costs, timing impacts, and business-related project decisionsStrong customer service mindset with the ability to support sales, estimating, and new business opportunitiesStrong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple active projects, priorities, and deadlinesDemonstrated problem-solving skills and commitment to continuous improvement and lean manufacturing principlesUnderstanding of applicable compliance requirements and design controls, including ISO 13485 and FDA regulations, preferredAbility to work independently while collaborating effectively across departments and with customersWell organized, detail-oriented, and goal orientedValid identification and the ability to legally work in the United StatesCompetitive spirit, but plays within the rulesTravel +/- 15%