Manufacturing Project Manager

Green Folk; Chard Town; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Green Folk in Somerset is seeking a Manufacturing Project Manager to lead New Product Introduction and development manufacturing projects in a precision engineering environment.

You will work across engineering, production, quality and commercial teams to deliver projects on time, within budget and to AS9100 quality standards.

The role requires a structured approach, strong stakeholder management and experience with MS Project and ERP/MRP systems.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience leading NPI, NPD or engineering projects within manufacturing.
• Background in precision engineering, machining, casting or similarly regulated sectors.
• Strong understanding of structured project management or gated development processes.
• Experience with AS9100 quality standards in a manufacturing setting.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications.
• Excellent organisational, communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities.

Responsibilities

• Lead New Product Introduction and development projects from launch through to production handover.
• Develop, maintain and control detailed project plans using Microsoft Project.
• Coordinate cross-functional activities across engineering, production, quality, purchasing and operations.
• Act as the primary contact for customers, suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Monitor and manage project risks, issues, timelines, cost and quality performance.
• Support manufacturability and production readiness reviews.
• Ensure customer requirements and quality standards are understood and met.
• Maintain compliance with relevant quality management standards (e.g. AS9100).
• Chair project review meetings and provide clear, structured reporting.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within project delivery and NPI processes.

Skills

NPI project management

Engineering project management

Stakeholder management

AS9100 experience

Communication skills

Education

PRINCE2 or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Project

ERP/MRP systems

Job description

Manufacturing Project Manager

Location: Somerset

Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent

An established and growing precision engineering and manufacturing organisation is seeking a Manufacturing Project Manager to join its engineering function.

This role offers the opportunity to lead complex New Product Introduction (NPI) and development manufacturing projects within a technically advanced and quality-driven environment.

Role Overview

The successful candidate will be responsible for managing new product introduction and development projects from initial enquiry or contract award through to successful production handover.

Working across engineering, production, quality, and commercial functions, the role requires a structured and disciplined approach to project delivery, ensuring all projects are completed on time, within budget, and to required specifications and quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead new product introduction and development projects from launch through to production handover
• Manage projects in line with structured, gated development processes
• Develop, maintain, and control detailed project plans using Microsoft Project
• Coordinate cross-functional activities across engineering, production, quality, purchasing, and operations
• Act as the primary point of contact for customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders
• Monitor and manage project risks, issues, timelines, cost, and quality performance
• Support manufacturability and production readiness reviews
• Ensure that customer requirements, specifications, and quality standards are fully understood and implemented
• Maintain compliance with relevant quality management standards (e.g. AS9100)
• Chair project review meetings and provide clear, structured reporting
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within project delivery and NPI processes

Candidate Requirements

Essential:

• Demonstrable experience in managing NPI, NPD, or engineering projects within a manufacturing environment
• Background in precision engineering, machining, casting, or similarly regulated sectors
• Strong understanding of structured project management or gated development processes
• Experience working with recognised quality standards such as AS9100
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications
• Strong organisational, communication, and stakeholder management skills
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities

Desirable:

• Formal project management qualification (e.g. PRINCE2 or equivalent)
• Experience within aerospace, defence, or other highly regulated industries
• Knowledge of APQP, PPAP, FAIR, FMEA, and related quality processes
• Familiarity with CNC machining, casting, or special manufacturing processes
• Understanding of ERP/MRP systems