Project Manager, Aerospace Material Testing

Element Materials Technology; Huntington Beach (CA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Element Materials Technology in Huntington Beach is seeking a Project Manager for Aerospace Material Testing. This role involves leading planning and project execution for aerospace testing operations, ensuring accurate and timely delivery of complex test programs. Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering and 3–5 years of relevant management experience. Proficiency in LIMS/ERP/MRP and MS Office is required. The position is based on-site and involves coordinating with various departments to achieve project objectives.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of people management experience in a related technical environment.
• Proven ability to read and interpret test specifications and drawings.
• Demonstrated experience coordinating cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Own end to end planning from work order creation through completion.
• Serve as the primary technical contact for assigned programs.
• Champion a safety first culture and ensure compliance with quality systems.

Skills

LIMS/ERP/MRP proficiency

People management experience

Technical communication

Project management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Element is seeking a Project Manager, Aerospace Material Testing to lead planning, scheduling, and project execution for aerospace testing operations in Huntington Beach.

Guided by our mission of “Making tomorrow safer than today,” this role enables safe, accurate, and on time delivery of complex test programs.

You’ll lead a team of planners and collaborate cross functionally with Engineering, Lab Operations, Sales, and Quality to translate customer requirements into executable plans in a fast paced, high impact environment.

Responsibilities

Planning & Scheduling

• Own end to end planning from work order creation through completion, ensuring schedule adherence, capacity alignment, and fast turnaround.
• Build and manage plans in LIMS/ERP systems; monitor WIP and proactively remove bottlenecks.
• Standardize planning processes to improve accuracy and efficiency.

Program & Technical Management

• Serve as the primary technical contact for assigned programs from kickoff to delivery.
• Review quotes, confirm scope and specifications, and create clear project timelines.
• Provide technical guidance, resolve complex testing issues, and review test data and customer reports.
• Lead and develop a team of planners through coaching, performance management, and succession planning.
• Manage staffing, schedules, and timecards while driving accountability for safety, quality, and delivery.
• Establish and manage KPIs related to schedule, turnaround time, and planning accuracy.

Quality, Safety & Continuous Improvement

• Champion a safety first culture and ensure compliance with quality systems, export controls, and company policies.

Skills / Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Materials, Aerospace, Industrial, or related).
• 3–5 years of people management experience in laboratory testing, aerospace manufacturing, or a closely related technical environment.
• Strong proficiency with LIMS/ERP/MRP and MS Office; capable with basic algebra/geometry for planning and tolerance/measurement context.
• Proven ability to read and interpret test specifications, drawings, and test plans; can translate requirements into executable work orders and schedules.
• Demonstrated experience coordinating cross-functional teams and communicating effectively with both technical and customer stakeholders.
• Track record of delivering on safety, quality, and schedule commitments in a fast-paced environment.

Physical & Work Environment

• On-site lab/manufacturing setting with appropriate PPE; occasional lifting up to 25 lbs.
• Standing/walking in lab areas; frequent computer work; occasional off-shift or weekend support to meet critical schedules.

All suitably qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective work related criteria and without regard for the following: age, disability, ethnic origin, gender, marital status, race, religion, responsibility of dependents, sexual orientation, or gender identity or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws.

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)