Project Manager - Custom Machinery & Automation

Job Description

About the Opportunity

We're partnering with an established, growing manufacturer of custom-engineered industrial equipment in the Dayton area that's looking to add a Project Manager to its team.

This is an opportunity to take ownership of technically complex projects from initial order through design, manufacturing, testing, and final customer acceptance. You'll work closely with mechanical and electrical engineers, manufacturing teams, and customers to ensure projects are delivered successfully.

The team is open to both experienced technical Project Managers and engineers with strong technical backgrounds who are looking to transition into project management.

What You'll Be Doing

• Manage multiple custom equipment and automation projects from purchase order through final delivery and customer acceptance.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams of mechanical engineers, controls engineers, assemblers, and technicians.
• Develop and maintain project schedules, milestones, budgets, and resource requirements.
• Serve as the primary customer contact throughout the project lifecycle, providing updates and managing expectations.
• Review technical requirements, engineering solutions, and project specifications to ensure alignment with customer needs.
• Manage project scope, change orders, costs, and potential risks.
• Work closely with engineering and manufacturing teams to resolve technical challenges and keep projects moving forward.
• Coordinate equipment testing, installation, and final acceptance activities.
• Monitor project financial performance and identify opportunities to improve execution and profitability.

What We're Looking For

• A strong technical background in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, automation, fluid power, industrial equipment, or a related discipline.
• Experience working with custom machinery, engineered capital equipment, industrial automation, or similar technical projects.
• Previous project management experience is preferred, but we're also open to engineers who have taken ownership of technical projects and are ready to move into a PM role.
• Ability to understand technical drawings, equipment specifications, and engineering concepts.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities.
• Excellent communication skills and confidence working directly with customers and internal engineering teams.
• A proactive, hands-on approach to problem-solving and project ownership.
• Engineering degree preferred but not required with relevant technical experience.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

• Strong growth: Join an expanding engineering and manufacturing organization with a growing project pipeline.
• Career development: Opportunity for technically experienced engineers to transition into project management.
• Minimal travel: Typically 0–10%, with most customer interaction handled remotely.
• Supportive team: Work alongside experienced Project Managers who provide training and mentorship.
• Project ownership: Manage projects independently while collaborating closely with engineering and manufacturing.
• Variety: Work on custom-engineered equipment and technical projects rather than repetitive, standardized products.