Project Manager/ Operations Lead

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Project Manager/Operations Lead to oversee operations, commercial growth, and client delivery for our specialized rotating equipment test facility. Powered by a steam supply driving a dedicated steam turbine driver system, this facility tests high-spec rotating machinery under real-world operating conditions. In this role, you will lead the business and operational aspects of the facility, driving client engagement, managing project lifecycles, and expanding our market presence. You will work side-by-side with our Senior Test Engineer, who manages technical execution and test procedures, allowing you to focus on team leadership, commercial strategy, revenue generation, and seamless project execution.

Responsibilities

Commercial & Marketing Leadership

• Market Expansion: Identify and pursue new commercial opportunities across target industries (e.g., power generation, oil & gas, chemical processing) for full-load and dynamic testing services.
• Client Engagement: Serve as the primary commercial point-of-contact for prospective and existing clients, delivering proposals, bids, and technical service presentations.
• Proposal & Contract Management: Lead the development of commercial proposals, scope-of-work agreements, pricing models, and contract negotiations in alignment with profitability goals.
• Brand Strategy: Partner with marketing teams to showcase test stand capabilities, promote unique steam-driven testing advantages, and represent the facility at industry trade shows and conferences.

Project & Team Management

• Project Delivery: Oversee test projects from contract award through execution, reporting, and final invoicing, ensuring milestones are met on time and within budget.
• Operational Leadership: Direct daily operations of the test facility team, aligning schedules between client needs, facility availability, and resource constraints.
• Resource Coordination: Collaborate closely with the Senior Test Engineer to map out testing schedules, utility requirements (steam, cooling water, power), and staffing.
• Financial Oversight: Manage the facility's P&L, budget forecasting, project margin analysis, and capital expenditure planning for facility upgrades.

Facility & Client Relations

• Client Representation: Host client representatives during on-site testing witnessed events, ensuring a high-standard, professional customer experience.
• Cross-Functional Alignment: Interface with safety, environmental compliance, supply chain, and maintenance teams to ensure smooth facility readiness.

Requirements

Experience & Qualifications

• Five or more years of experience in project management, commercial development, or operational leadership within industrial, mechanical, or heavy engineering testing facilities.
• Solid understanding of rotating equipment (pumps, compressors, gearboxes) and thermal drive systems (steam turbines, high-pressure steam boilers).
• Demonstrated success in technical sales, client account management, contract negotiation, and market expansion strategy.
• Proven ability to manage multidisciplinary teams, delegate technical execution to subject matter experts, and drive operational performance.

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related discipline. Equivalent work experience with a technical certification from an accredited institution will also be considered.
• PMP certification is a plus.

Skills

Organizational

• Exceptional ability to multitask, prioritize, and manage time and resources effectively.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Exceptional attention to details.
• Display ownership and accountability for tasks and responsibilities.
• Adaptable to changing schedules.

Interpersonal

• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work within a team.

Administrative & Technologies

• Proficient with Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, Word, etc.).
• Ability to learn select modules in JobBoss and function in RMS Inc. custom-built "PM App".

Work Environment

• Regular exposure to moving mechanical parts.
• Work area is generally clean and safe but may involve machining operations generating moderate noise and metal particles.
• Ability to act professionally under stressful situations.
• Able to understand, read, write, and speak English.
• Ability and willingness to lift objects weighing up to 50 lbs. (with assistance), walk, climb, reach, kneel, crawl, and balance.
• Must be able to use hands for assembling and tool usage.
• While performing duties, the employee will be required to stand, sit, bend, and walk for significant portions of the shift.
• Must not have allergies or issues related to handling metals, including aluminum, copper, bronze, and steel.
• May be required to participate in company random or customer-specific drug and alcohol screening and background checks.
• Authorized to work in the United States.

Schedule

• Full-time position, with a minimum expectation of 40 hours per week.
• Additional hours, including evenings or weekends, may be required based on project needs.
• Travel time is expected to be 10-15%.

Benefits

• Competitive Pay
• Paid Time Off
• Medical / Dental / Vision
• 401k
• Employee Incentive Programs
• Employee Reimbursement Programs

About the Company

Rotating Machinery Services (RMS Inc.) was established in 1998 with the vision to reinvent the concept of an aftermarket turbomachinery business. The goal was to provide turbomachinery operators with unparalleled service based on established relationships, solid engineering, and technical expertise—all backed by responsiveness in competitive prices and lead times. RMS’ commitment to quality penetrates every aspect of the organization and is the guiding force for all decision-making. With an equal blend of cutting-edge technology, engineering experience, and the work of skilled craftspeople, RMS continuously delivers the best possible results to customers. RMS is a nimble organization with a collaborative culture of individuals who come to work every day with a desire to improve upon their craft and further the rotating machinery industry.