Junior NPI Program Launch Manager

Junior NPI Program Launch Manager

The Junior NPI Program Launch Manager supports the coordination and execution of new product introduction (NPI) programs from concept through production launch within the medical injection molding division. This entry-level role assists in program planning, documentation, and cross-functional coordination to ensure successful execution of tooling, validation, and production readiness activities.

This position provides an excellent opportunity to learn the full product lifecycle within a regulated manufacturing environment - from early design transfer through validated production - while developing foundational program management skills and cross-functional collaboration experience.

Key Responsibilities

Project Coordination

• Support NPI project planning and execution from initial design reviews through launch.
• Assist in developing and maintaining project timelines, milestones, and Gantt charts.
• Maintain accurate project documentation, ERP, and quality system records.
• Assist with meeting minutes, progress reporting, and project status updates for internal and customer meetings.
• Participate in lessons learned sessions and process improvement initiatives.

Cross-Functional Support

• Collaborate with Engineering, Tooling, Quality, and Production to monitor program activities.
• Participate in DFM (Design for Manufacturability) reviews, early feasibility discussions, and risk reviews.
• Help organize program reviews and maintain project files and dashboards in Smartsheet or MS Project.

Customer & Supplier Interaction

• Support communication with customers on status updates and documentation needs.
• Assist in coordinating supplier tool build schedules, sample approvals, and design approvals.

Learning & Development

• Gain working knowledge of injection molding processes, tooling design/build, and regulatory requirements.
• Participate in internal training on project management methodology, ERP systems, and quality practices.
• Shadow senior team members to develop effective leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Project Management, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 0-4 years of experience in project coordination, engineering, or manufacturing support (medical device industry preferred; internships or co-ops considered).
• Basic understanding of manufacturing processes, tooling, and quality systems.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication abilities.
• Familiarity with project management software (Smartsheet, MS Project) and ERP systems preferred.
• Willingness to learn, adapt, and grow into a full program management role.

Traits & Core Competencies

• Eager to learn and contribute to cross-functional project success.
• Collaborative, communicative, and detail-oriented.
• Positive attitude, dependable, and operates with integrity and accountability.
• Curious about manufacturing processes and continuous improvement.
• Team player with strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Additional Information

• Travel: Up to 10%
• Physical Requirements: May involve light activity on the production floor