Manufacturing Program Manager

About the role

This is a direct-hire, hybrid position based in Philadelphia, PA. Employment is W‑2 only (no C2C); candidates must be authorized to work in the U.S. both now and in the future. Travel up to 10% may be required.

Carex is partnering with a manufacturing industry partner to hire an experienced Program Manager to lead the planning, coordination, and execution of multiple programs and projects within a manufacturing environment. The role drives cross‑functional collaboration, manages execution risks, and ensures projects are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with business objectives. The ideal candidate is a resourceful, hands‑on project leader who thrives in a fast‑paced manufacturing setting, brings structure to complex initiatives, and excels at building accountability across teams. This position offers the opportunity to strengthen program management practices, support continuous improvement initiatives, and drive meaningful operational results.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of multiple programs and projects from initial evaluation through successful completion.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive project plans, schedules, milestones, deliverables, and budgets to ensure timely and effective execution.
• Leverage manufacturing systems, project management tools, dashboards, and operational data to monitor progress, identify risks, and support informed decision‑making.
• Proactively identify execution gaps, resource constraints, and cross‑functional dependencies, developing practical solutions to keep initiatives on track.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Operations, Quality, Supply Chain, Sales, and other functional teams to align priorities and drive project outcomes.
• Coordinate internal stakeholders, external vendors, and cross‑functional teams to maintain accountability and deliver on commitments.
• Facilitate program and project status meetings, providing clear communication on progress, risks, resource needs, and mitigation strategies.
• Evaluate and manage project changes, including impacts to scope, schedules, budgets, and business commitments.
• Strengthen program management capabilities by improving standard processes, templates, reporting methods, governance routines, and project management tools.
• Provide hands‑on coaching and guidance to project owners and team members to improve planning, accountability, risk management, and execution.
• Partner with continuous improvement leadership to integrate problem‑solving methodologies and operational improvement opportunities into program execution.
• Maintain accurate reporting and visibility into program health, task completion, key milestones, and risk mitigation plans.
• Engage business and functional leaders to anticipate future program needs, evaluate organizational capabilities, and address potential dependencies.
• Incorporate change management principles into project execution, including stakeholder engagement, communication planning, and organizational readiness.
• Independently investigate complex challenges, engage subject‑matter experts, and translate findings into actionable recommendations.
• Support additional strategic programs and project initiatives as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• 5+ years of experience leading or coordinating multiple, interrelated projects or programs within a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Demonstrated proficiency with project and program management methodologies, tools, and execution best practices.
• Proven ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously while balancing competing priorities, timelines, and resources.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing operations and the ability to collaborate effectively across technical and business functions.
• Experience developing and managing project schedules, budgets, milestones, risk assessments, and performance reporting.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to leverage operational data to identify challenges and drive solutions.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to influence cross‑functional teams, build accountability, and drive results without direct authority.
• A proactive, resourceful approach with a willingness to take ownership and navigate complex challenges.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with and managing Department of Defense (DoD) contracts.
• Working knowledge of Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR).
• Additional experience supporting complex manufacturing or industrial programs.
• Project Management Professional (PMP), Program Management Professional (PgMP), or Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) certification.

Compensation

$96,000–$135,000 annually, depending on qualifications and experience.