Duties & Responsibilities: Overview
We are seeking a motivated, detail-oriented entry-level Project Manager to support project execution within our manufacturing environment. This role works closely with engineering, manufacturing, and cross-functional teams to help plan, coordinate, and track projects from concept through production. It's an excellent opportunity for someone early in their project management career who wants hands-on exposure to product development, process engineering, and manufacturing operations.
Key Responsibilities
Project Coordination & Execution- Develop and drive the planning, scheduling, budgets and execution of projects which span from proof-of-concept to high-volume production in collaboration with engineers.
- Manage the transition of new products or processes from engineering/R&D into manufacturing.
- Coordinate with suppliers and vendors to support timely procurement and delivery of materials and equipment.
- Track project milestones and flag schedule or budget risks to stakeholders and senior staff.
Cross-Functional Collaboration- Partner with process and manufacturing engineers to keep projects aligned with requirements and timelines.
- Review specifications, contracts, and drawings to confirm project scope is accurately reflected in plans.
- Translate updates from subject matter experts into clear status reports for stakeholders.
Documentation & Reporting- Maintain up-to-date project documentation, including schedules, budgets, and status reports.
- Prepare regular progress updates for management and stakeholders.
- Support tracking of project costs and variances against budget.
- Apply structured PM tools and methods (e.g., integrated schedules, PFMEA/DFMEA, Design/Project Reviews).
Communication & Issue Resolution- Act as a day-to-day point of contact between engineering, manufacturing, and project stakeholders.
- Facilitate project meetings, ensuring clear notes, action item assignment and follow-up on open items.
- Identification of project risks and development of mitigation plans alongside senior project management.
- Escalate issues appropriately and help drive timely resolution.
Pre-Requisites / Skills / Experience Requirements: Required- Associate's degree in Business, Engineering, or related field, or 2+ years of relevant project coordination/management experience.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to translate project details for varied audiences.
- Highly organized, with the ability to manage multiple tasks/deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel; familiarity with Microsoft Project a plus.
- Detail-oriented with solid analytical and problem-solving skills.
Preferred- Prior exposure to a manufacturing, production, or engineering environment (internship experience counts).
- Familiarity with NPI / Stage-Gate product development processes.
- Coursework or certification in project management (e.g., CAPM, PMP-track).
If you have what it takes to push boundaries and seize opportunities, apply to join our team today.
Job Posting Pay Range:66,500
to
123,500
Exceptional qualifications, experience and location may impact salary. VIAVI offers a competitive benefits package that includes paid time off, health, life and disability insurance, 401(k), and a bonus program.
