Lead Project Manager

Lead Project Manager

Position Summary

The Lead Project Manager is responsible for leading the planning, coordination, execution, and delivery of complex engineer-to-order manufacturing projects and associated contracts. This role serves as the primary point of accountability for project success, ensuring alignment across Sales, Engineering, Operations, Quality, and external stakeholders.

The Lead Project Manager drives projects to completion safely, on time, within budget, and in compliance with customer specifications and company standards, while meeting or exceeding profitability objectives. This role also provides mentorship to junior team members and supports continuous improvement of project management processes.

At API Heat Transfer, we take our culture transformation seriously. Participation in our Culture Index Survey is required as part of the application process to ensure alignment with our values and behaviors.

What You Will Do

Project Leadership & Execution

Lead cross-functional teams in defining project scope, objectives, risks, and deliverables, ensuring full stakeholder alignment and technical feasibility

Own full lifecycle execution of engineer-to-order manufacturing projects from order release through final delivery

Serve as the primary post-order point of contact for customers and sales representatives

Provide clear, proactive communication and status reporting to executive leadership, stakeholders, and customers

Mentor and provide guidance to junior project managers and project managers

Risk, Cost & Schedule Management

Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate project risks to minimize impact to cost, schedule, and quality

Own project financial performance, including cost tracking, margin protection, and variance analysis

Drive adherence to project schedules by coordinating with Manufacturing, Planning, and Supply Chain teams

Lead resolution of delays, bottlenecks, and resource conflicts

Contract Management & Customer Engagement

Lead contract administration to ensure compliance with all commercial and technical requirements

Manage customer-driven contract changes, ensuring alignment across internal functions

Partner with Sales to evaluate pricing impacts, scope changes, and lead-time adjustments

Build and maintain strong relationships with customer Project Managers, Expeditors, and key stakeholders

Quality, Documentation & Compliance

Ensure accuracy and completeness of all project documentation, including engineering changes and customer revisions

Oversee development and execution of Inspection and Test Plans (ITPs) and manufacturing schedules

Ensure all quality standards and customer requirements are met prior to shipment release

Support continuous improvement initiatives related to quality and project execution processes

Supplier & Aftermarket Oversight

Manage key subcontractor relationships, including performance monitoring and issue resolution

Lead corrective action efforts with suppliers to ensure quality and delivery expectations are met

Oversee execution of high-volume aftermarket orders and small market projects

Leadership & Continuous Improvement

Drive standardization and improvement of project management tools, processes, and reporting

Support a culture of accountability, collaboration, and operational excellence

Coach and develop team members to strengthen overall project management capability

Identify opportunities for efficiency, cost savings, and process optimization

Travel & Additional Responsibilities

Conduct customer and supplier site visits as required

Perform other duties as assigned

What You Bring

Bachelors degree in Engineering or a related field

Project Management Professional (PMP) certification (Required)

58+ years of project management experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment

Strong expertise in engineer-to-order manufacturing processes (machining, welding, assembly, testing, painting)

Demonstrated experience leading complex, cross-functional projects with full ownership

Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, forecasting, and cost control

Experience working with supply chain, production planning, quality, and customer service functions

Proven ability to manage multiple high-impact projects simultaneously

Exceptional communication and leadership skills across all organizational levels

Highly organized, detail-oriented, and results-driven

Strong problem-solving skills, including data analysis and implementation of sustainable solutions

Ability to adapt quickly in a fast-paced, evolving environment

Preferred Qualifications

Lean Six Sigma certification

Experience mentoring or leading project management teams

Working knowledge of ERP planning systems; Plex experience preferred

Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office (especially Excel and Project tracking tools)

Physical Requirements

Ability to sit, stand, and walk within both office and production environments

Occasional lifting of up to 20 lbs

Visual acuity for computer screens and technical documentation

Ability to wear required PPE on the shop floor

Frequent use of hands for typing and document handling

What We Offer You

Opportunity to contribute to a global leader in engineered heat transfer solutions

Collaborative, team-focused work environment

Competitive compensation and bonus potential

Comprehensive health and welfare benefits, 401(k), paid time off, and professional development opportunities

Salary Range: $85,000 $100,000 annually (commensurate with education and experience)

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

API Heat Transfer, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We comply with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws and do not discriminate on the basis of any protected status.