Project Manager 1

JOB TITLE: Project Manager 1
FLSA: Exempt position
LOCATION: Fremont, CA (Onsite)
SALARY: $75,000 - $108,000

JOB SUMMARY:

The Project Manager (Level 1) is responsible for executing assigned manufacturing projects under the guidance of a Program Manager or senior Project Manager. This role takes the execution of defined project scopes, manages day-to-day coordination, tracks progress against schedules, and drives task completion across cross-functional teams. While guidance is provided, Level 1 Project Managers are expected to work independently on assigned responsibilities, proactively identify issues, and take initiative in following up on actions and deliverables.

The Program Management (PM) team plays a critical role in overseeing manufacturing projects from initial launch through mass production and final shipment. Functioning as a Manufacturing Program Management (MPM) organization, the team works closely with headquarters Sales, R&D, Quality, and Engineering teams to estimate resources, manage schedules, and align execution with customer requirements. The PM team coordinates cross-functional activities, balances customer commitments with internal efficiency, and adapts plans as conditions change. By serving as a key bridge between customers, headquarters, and manufacturing functions, the team supports timely execution and successful product delivery.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

· Manage assigned manufacturing projects or project components, taking ownership of schedules, task tracking, and execution within defined scope. Ensure execution meets defined quality, quantity, and delivery commitments.

· Develop and maintain project timelines based on customer requirements, material readiness, and available production resources.

· Coordinate day-to-day activities with Engineering, Production, Quality, Supply Chain, and other internal teams to ensure project progress aligns with plan.

· Actively monitor project status, identify risks or delays, and escalate issues with proposed options or recommendations when needed.

· Track production progress and resource availability, following up with responsible teams to close gaps.

· Conduct routine project meetings or working sessions as assigned; document action items and ensure timely follow-through.

· Prepare and deliver accurate project status updates and reports to Program Managers and internal stakeholders.

· Apply standard project management tools, templates, and processes to ensure consistency and transparency.

· Continuously build knowledge of manufacturing operations, workflows, and cross-functional dependencies to improve project execution.

COMPETENCIES:

• Strong sense of ownership and accountability for assigned projects and deliverables.
• Ability to work independently while effectively leveraging guidance and feedback.
• Clear and professional written and verbal communication skills for cross-functional coordination.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to identify issues, assess impact, and escalate with context.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in tracking schedules, data, and commitments.
• Adaptability and resilience in a fast-paced manufacturing environment with changing priorities.
• Collaborative interpersonal skills to maintain effective working relationships with internal stakeholders.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, or a related field preferred.
• Entry-level professional experience, internships, or academic project work related to project coordination, manufacturing, operations, or business support is beneficial.