Project Manager

AWL; Spartanburg (SC); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

AWL Automation in Spartanburg, SC is seeking a Project Manager to oversee complex automation projects. You will manage the entire project lifecycle, ensuring objectives are met within budget and on schedule, while leading cross-functional teams and communicating with customers. A Bachelor's degree in Engineering and 2-5 years of project management experience in capital goods or automation is essential. Opportunities for professional growth and competitive compensation are provided.

Qualifications

• 2-5 years of Project Management experience in capital goods.
• 3-5 years of experience in automation, preferably in automotive.
• Proven track record of successful project delivery.

Responsibilities

• Own the full project lifecycle managing multiple high-value automation projects.
• Lead cross-functional teams and manage risks effectively.
• Communicate project status and manage customer expectations.

Skills

Leadership

Problem-solving

Decision-making

Proficiency with project management tools

Knowledge of machine safety standards

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related field

Tools

Microsoft Project

Microsoft Office

Job description

AWL Automation is a global leader in advanced automated machinery, delivering innovative solutions to customers across the automotive and industrial sectors. We are seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead complex automation projects from contract handover through final delivery, ensuring scope, schedule, quality, and financial objectives are achieved.

What Will Be Your Role?

As the Project Manager, you will own the full project lifecycle, managing multiple high-value automation projects simultaneously. You will lead cross‑functional teams, proactively manage risk, control budgets, and serve as the primary point of contact for customers and internal stakeholders. This role requires strong leadership, commercial awareness, and the ability to navigate technical, contractual, and organizational complexity.

Core Responsibilities

Project Planning & Execution

• Ensure projects are executed in accordance with contract scope, schedule, and deliverables.
• Develop and maintain detailed project plans, schedules, and budgets.
• Assign and coordinate manpower and resources to achieve contractual milestones.
• Manage 2–4 projects simultaneously, ranging from $1M to $10M in value.

Team Leadership & Organization

• Lead and motivate cross‑functional project teams.
• Define project goals and responsibilities for team members.
• Provide technical guidance on complex project issues.
• Monitor team performance, efficiency, and overall project effectiveness.

Risk, Change & Quality Management

• Identify project risks and implement mitigation strategies.
• Manage scope changes, ensuring proper documentation, approval, and customer quotation.
• Ensure additional work is captured and financially compensated.
• Establish and maintain quality standards; conduct regular project reviews.

Budget & Commercial Control

• Monitor project costs and financial performance.
• Ensure adherence to approved budgets and commercial agreements.
• Evaluate feasibility and impact of contract variations.

Stakeholder & Customer Management

• Communicate project status, risks, deviations, and opportunities clearly and proactively.
• Manage customer expectations while navigating contractual obligations.
• Maintain effective collaboration with US‑ and Netherlands‑based teams.

Compliance & Reporting

• Ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and safety standards.
• Provide timely reporting on progress, deviations, risks, and follow‑up opportunities.
• Ensure contract compliance throughout the project lifecycle.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related field preferred.
• 2–5 years of Project Management experience in capital goods (machines and installations).
• 3–5 years of experience in automation, preferably within the automotive sector.
• Proven track record of successful project delivery.

Preferred Skills & Qualifications

• PMP or similar project management certification preferred.
• Strong leadership, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Proficiency with project management tools and methodologies (Agile, Waterfall).
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Project and Microsoft Office.
• Knowledge of machine safety standards, industrial automation, and manufacturing processes.
• Understanding of commercial and financial aspects of projects.
• Six Sigma or Lean Six Sigma certification is a plus.

Travel

• Minimum 30% travel required, including domestic and international travel.
• Valid passport required or ability to obtain one promptly.

What Can You Expect From Us?

At AWL Automation, you will work on technically challenging, high‑impact projects within a global organization. We offer a collaborative environment where strong project leadership is valued, along with opportunities for professional growth, international collaboration, and competitive compensation and benefits.