Production Project Manager
Outform
Operations
Chicago, IL, USA
Posted on Apr 2, 2025
Job Summary
The Production Project Manager is responsible for overseeing both temporary and permanent display projects initiated by our Sales team. This role ensures smooth project execution from the moment a project/job is released into production, including transferring information from the Sales team, managing production timelines, liaising with suppliers and plant teams, and maintaining consistent communication with both internal and external stakeholders throughout the process.
Responsibilities
- Oversee and manage projects from inception to completion, ensuring timelines, budgets, and quality standards are met.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for internal teams (e.g., purchasing, engineering, manufacturing) and external suppliers.
- Manage project specifications, including material requirements, budget expectations, and milestone timelines.
- Create part numbers, Bills of Materials (BOMs), and handle purchasing requisitions.
- Approve packout samples and follow up with buyers on production status.
- Generate QC check sheets and close out Purchase Orders (PO).
- Procure hardware and create shipping memos/requests.
- Review cartons and approve, submit carton testing requests, and troubleshoot packouts for risk mitigation.
- Track project progress with detailed reports, identifying any exceptions and implementing corrective actions as needed.
- Ensure accurate production documentation is created (e.g., packout pictures, final carton images with labels).
- Create and monitor Advanced Shipping Notices (ASN) and reconcile inventory processes.
- Act as a liaison between key departments (purchasing, engineering, manufacturing) to ensure project specifications are properly communicated and implemented.
- Oversee the receipt of all materials and the shipping of finished goods in accordance with project requirements.
- Manage project closeout tasks, including invoice processing and margin report analysis.
- Finalize and upload all related Bills of Materials (BOMs).
Qualifications
- 3-5 years of Project Management experience in a manufacturing environment.
- Demonstrated expertise in managing both temporary and permanent display projects.
- Experience in both domestic and international shipping and manufacturing.
- Strong time management, organization, and budgeting skills.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficient in Excel and Outlook; experience with Smartsheet and ERP systems is a plus.
- Strong problem-solving abilities and the capacity to adapt to new challenges.
- Knowledge of manufacturing processes, including digital and litho printing, corrugated materials, die cutting, plastic fabrication, and finishing techniques (painting, plating, powder coating).
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Highly motivated, hardworking, and proactive.
- Strong team player with a positive attitude and a solutions-oriented approach.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to bend, twist, reach, and stand for extended periods as needed.
- Must be able to work in the office as required.
- Ability to lift materials up to 50 lbs.