Program Manager

Balance Technology Inc (BTI); Ann Arbor (MI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Balance Technology Inc (BTI) in Michigan seeks a seasoned Program Manager with a strong background in Manufacturing Engineering and Lean Manufacturing to drive cross-functional programs from concept to production. You will manage complex projects, ensure on-time delivery, and lead continuous improvement efforts to meet quality and cost targets.

The ideal candidate combines technical expertise with leadership, organization, and communication skills to advance operational excellence and customer

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Manufacturing, Mechanical, Industrial, Electrical, or related field).
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in Manufacturing Engineering and/or Program Management.
• Proven experience in Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement environments.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, production systems, and quality standards.
• Experience managing technical projects in a manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency with project management tools and ERP/MRP systems.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage competing priorities.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage multiple manufacturing programs and projects from quotation through production launch and lifecycle support.
• Serve as the primary point of contact between Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, Quality, and Customers.
• Develop and maintain detailed project plans, schedules, budgets, and risk assessments.
• Coordinate manufacturing process development, tooling, equipment, and capacity planning.
• Apply Lean Manufacturing principles to improve productivity, reduce waste, and optimize workflows.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen methodologies.
• Monitor program performance, including cost, schedule, quality, and delivery metrics.
• Identify risks and implement mitigation plans to ensure program success.
• Lead cross-functional project reviews and status meetings.
• Ensure compliance with company standards, customer requirements, and regulatory expectations.
• Support new product introductions (NPI) and production ramp-ups.
• Prepare and present program updates to senior leadership and customers.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Project management

Cross-functional leadership

Communication skills

Analytical problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

ERP systems

Business Central

SAP

Oracle

Job description

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Program Manager with a strong background in Manufacturing Engineering and Lean Manufacturing to lead cross-functional programs from concept through production. This role is responsible for managing complex manufacturing projects, ensuring on-time delivery, cost control, quality performance, and continuous improvement.

The ideal candidate will combine technical expertise with strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills to drive operational excellence and customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage multiple manufacturing programs and projects from quotation through production launch and lifecycle support
• Serve as the primary point of contact between Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, Quality, and Customers
• Develop and maintain detailed project plans, schedules, budgets, and risk assessments
• Coordinate manufacturing process development, tooling, equipment, and capacity planning
• Apply Lean Manufacturing principles to improve productivity, reduce waste, and optimize workflows
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen methodologies
• Monitor program performance, including cost, schedule, quality, and delivery metrics
• Identify risks and implement mitigation plans to ensure program success
• Lead cross-functional project reviews and status meetings
• Ensure compliance with company standards, customer requirements, and regulatory expectations
• Support new product introductions (NPI) and production ramp-ups
• Prepare and present program updates to senior leadership and customers

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering (Manufacturing, Mechanical, Industrial, Electrical, or related field)
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in Manufacturing Engineering and/or Program Management
• Proven experience in Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement environments
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, production systems, and quality standards
• Experience managing technical projects in a manufacturing environment
• Proficiency with project management tools and ERP/MRP systems
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage competing priorities

Preferred Qualifications

• Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt) Experience
• Experience in automation, custom equipment, or capital equipment manufacturing
• Experience working with ERP systems such as Business Central, SAP, Oracle, or similar