Strategic Program Manager for Manufacturing & Defense

Keel; Saginaw (MI); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits

401K match

HSA/FSA

Paid holidays

Paid time off

Internal referral bonus opportunities

Shift differentials

Overtime potential

On‑the‑job training

Certification sponsorship

Job summary

Keel, based in Michigan, seeks a seasoned Program Manager to oversee assigned programs from planning through execution. You will coordinate with fabrication partners and Keel leadership, track milestones, manage risks, and ensure on‑time delivery while maintaining profitability.

The role requires strong leadership, budgeting acumen, and experience in manufacturing environments, with the ability to communicate with customers and executive teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, Engineering, Finance, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of program management experience in manufacturing/production.
• 3 years of related experience or training in engineering, finance or manufacturing management.
• Or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong leadership skills in past positions.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; MS Project preferred; SmartSheet/PowerBI helpful.
• Understanding of ERP systems; IFS knowledge preferred.
• Experience managing departmental budgets.
• Strong communication with customers and executive leadership.
• PMI CAPM or PMP/PgMP certification preferred.
• Heavy plate fabrication experience including welding preferred.

Responsibilities

• Liaison between Keel’s fabrication partner(s) and Keel’s leadership team.
• Communicate with customers and report to the Director of PMO.
• Track and report program measurables, goals, timelines, risks, and milestones.
• Report daily to the Director of PMO on risks and potential delays affecting paths, budget, or delivery.
• Track work orders outside scope of work for approval and invoicing.
• Increase contracted parameters/opportunities for greater profitability where feasible.
• Act as liaison for internal and external stakeholders of the program.
• Recommend resources and scheduling for on‑time program delivery.
• Detect, report, and resolve program issues timely and effectively.
• Manage technical data and documentation for the program.
• Communicate program developments to team members and other departments.
• Lead and provide direction to Project Managers as needed.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Stakeholder liaison

Program management

Budget management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, Engineering, Finance, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Project

SmartSheet

PowerBI

IFS

Job description

Keel, based in Michigan, seeks a seasoned Program Manager to oversee assigned programs from planning through execution. You will coordinate with fabrication partners and Keel leadership, track milestones, manage risks, and ensure on‑time delivery while maintaining profitability.

The role requires strong leadership, budgeting acumen, and experience in manufacturing environments, with the ability to communicate with customers and executive teams.