Project Manager with Automation / Advanced Manufacturing Experience

Updated: 8/27/2024

Polaris MEP seeks to hire a Project Manager with automation and advanced manufacturing experience. Be a part of helping a smaller Rhode Island manufacturing company future-proof and transform their operations, and help the Ocean State’s economy grow!

Polaris MEP, a division of URI Research Foundation and an affiliate of the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) National Network, guides Rhode Island manufacturers to sustainable growth, innovative technology strategies and cost-efficient operations.

Polaris MEP serves small to medium sized manufacturers by making connections and introductions to the appropriate resources and programs available to assist in their growth through a variety of programs and activities. In its role as the Statewide Rhode Island Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Center, Polaris MEP seeks to hire a Advanced Manufacturing Project Manager with automation and technology experience.

Project Managers are core to the success of Polaris MEP programs and to the manufacturing community in Rhode Island. This position is responsible for identification, delivery and update of support and growth programs to these companies. The ideal candidate has a proven track record of success facilitating progressive organizational change and development. The candidate must possess sound judgment and creative problem-solving skills, including negotiation and conflict resolution. The ideal candidate works effectively in a team-dependent environment but is self-reliant, results oriented, energetic, flexible, and proactive.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

• Manage and lead client engagements from beginning to end.
  • Prospect, qualify, close and/or manage clients to generate revenues pursuant to the Center’s earnings goals.
  • Participate in sales calls, perform client assessments, develop training roadmaps, and write proposed service agreements as part of client engagement process.
  • Provide training virtually, in classroom and hands-on settings to client company ownership and staff.
  • Follow up with clients and measure results and satisfaction of services delivered.
  • Complete project impact statements, case studies, and customer follow-up, as necessary.
  • Establish long term relationships with client’s senior personnel through periodic engagement in: continuous improvement; quality; and environment, health and safety projects, as well as providing updates on progress. This includes identifying root cause problems versus symptoms and differentiate between client’s needs and wants.
• Support other program managers as appropriate.
• Participate in the development of new training curriculum and service delivery options.
• Represent Polaris MEP at promotional events.
• Other duties as assigned to support the operation and success of Polaris MEP.

Desired Education and Experience:

• Four-year college degree or related experience in engineering or business, or a related field.
• Minimum 6 years of actual business, manufacturing, engineering, or operations management experience required.
• Extensive knowledge of manufacturing operations management with an understanding of the financial and operating issues of small businesses and manufacturers.
• Knowledge of Lean Enterprise concepts and demonstrated successful implementation is essential.
• Knowledge of manufacturing quality systems and best practices are important, including the ability to understand blueprints and other technical documents.
• Knowledge of basic enterprise support functions including supply chain management, distribution, sales and marketing, employment law, safety, regulatory requirements, and quality.
• Eagerness to explore and/or experience with advanced manufacturing including one or more of the following: additive manufacturing / 3D printing, advanced textiles production, CAD/CAM, advanced composites processes, sensors, automation, robotics.
• Project management skills including coordination, team development, scheduling, budgeting, and tracking results. Ability to be proactive in anticipating problems, solving problems, and developing contingencies.
• Proven ability to build trust and maintain effective working relationships with clients.
• Excellent written and spoken communication skills.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft productivity tools and Salesforce recommended.
• Previous consulting experience strongly preferred.

Polaris MEP follows safe COVID practices and is an equal opportunity employer.

To apply for this position, please send a resume and cover letter to careers@polarismep.org. 

Polaris MEP, a business unit of URI Research Foundation, recognizes that the field of manufacturing needs to be strengthened by contributions from a broad range of perspectives. The URI Research Foundation is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and seeks to serve as a representative inspiration for the next generations.

Polaris MEP, 401 Tech Bridge and URI Research Foundation are committed to creating a diverse environment built on respect for all. We are proud to be Equal Opportunity Employers.

No persons will be discriminated against in employment because of race, color, religion, sex, age, marital status, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity or expression, veteran status or any other protected characteristic.

We are committed to the fulfillment of this principle by employing individuals based upon job-related criteria including education, experience, and skills.

Each employee is expected to support and carry out this policy fully in all their relations with present and prospective employees and in any dealings they may have with others as a representative of Polaris MEP.