Senior Project Manager

JR Automation, a Hitachi Group Company, delivers intelligent automated manufacturing and distribution technology solutions globally. We’re seeking a hands-on Senior Project Manager in Nashville, TN to lead custom automation projects from concept through installation and final acceptance.

About the role

This onsite position focuses on delivering engineered-to-order automation equipment and manufacturing solutions. You’ll own the entire project lifecycle—from quote handoff to closeout—serving as the primary customer contact while managing scope, schedule, budget, quality, and risk across highly technical, custom-built projects. Travel up to 20% (domestic and/or international) is required.

Responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership for assigned projects, managing scope, schedule, cost, quality, risks, issues, resources, and communications.
• Own projects from initiation through closure, leading cross-functional teams through JR Automation’s Project Execution Process (PEP) with full accountability for performance.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for customers, building strong relationships through clear communication and a deep understanding of customer needs.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive project plans, including scope definition, timelines, budgets, resource planning, and risk management strategies.
• Manage project financials, including budget development, cost tracking, and ensuring delivery within financial targets.
• Monitor and report project performance using assigned systems, proactively identifying risks, issues, and corrective actions.
• Lead proactive decision-making by evaluating project complexity, timelines, and visible/unknown risks.
• Ensure adherence to JR Automation’s project management methodologies, quality standards, compliance requirements, and safety policies.
• Coordinate and oversee project documentation, technical performance, production milestones, and quality deliverables.
• Communicate project status, progress, and challenges to stakeholders, including customers, leadership, and internal teams.
• Drive continuous improvement by capturing lessons learned and sharing best practices to enhance the Project Execution Process.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or equivalent combination of education and experience (2 years of relevant work experience = 1 year of academic study).
• 5+ years of experience in Project Management.
• PMP certification preferred, but not required.
• Experience in direct customer commercial management and cross-functional team leadership preferred.
• Current or prior JR Automation experience, or experience within the automation industry, strongly preferred.
• Moderately advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Excel and MS Project.
• Ability to quickly become proficient in company systems, processes, and tools.
• Strong understanding of Project Management best practices, including MS Project, critical path analysis, and change management.
• Proven history of managing customer contracts and relationships, as well as indirectly managing teams.
• Strong skills in negotiation, conflict resolution, and proactive decision-making.

Benefits

• Competitive wages.
• Medical benefits starting your first day.
• Paid parental leave.
• Opportunity to work on unique, custom automation projects.
• Collaborative, engineering-driven environment.
• Career growth and skill development opportunities.