Lead Project Manager

The Lead Project Manager is responsible for leading the planning, coordination, execution, and delivery of complex engineer-to-order manufacturing projects and associated contracts. This role serves as the primary point of accountability for project success, ensuring alignment across Sales, Engineering, Operations, Quality, and external stakeholders.

The Lead Project Manager drives projects to completion safely, on time, within budget, and in compliance with customer specifications and company standards, while meeting or exceeding profitability objectives. This role also provides mentorship to junior team members and supports continuous improvement of project management processes.

At API Heat Transfer, we take our culture transformation seriously. Participation in our Culture Index Survey is required as part of the application process to ensure alignment with our values and behaviors.

Project Leadership & Execution

·         Lead cross-functional teams in defining project scope, objectives, risks, and deliverables, ensuring full stakeholder alignment and technical feasibility

·         Own full lifecycle execution of engineer-to-order manufacturing projects from order release through final delivery

·         Serve as the primary post-order point of contact for customers and sales representatives

·         Provide clear, proactive communication and status reporting to executive leadership, stakeholders, and customers

·         Mentor and provide guidance to junior project managers and project managers

Risk, Cost & Schedule Management

·         Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate project risks to minimize impact to cost, schedule, and quality

·         Own project financial performance, including cost tracking, margin protection, and variance analysis

·         Drive adherence to project schedules by coordinating with Manufacturing, Planning, and Supply Chain teams

·         Lead resolution of delays, bottlenecks, and resource conflicts

Contract Management & Customer Engagement

·         Lead contract administration to ensure compliance with all commercial and technical requirements

·         Manage customer-driven contract changes, ensuring alignment across internal functions

·         Partner with Sales to evaluate pricing impacts, scope changes, and lead-time adjustments

·         Build and maintain strong relationships with customer Project Managers, Expeditors, and key stakeholders

Quality, Documentation & Compliance

·         Ensure accuracy and completeness of all project documentation, including engineering changes and customer revisions

·         Oversee development and execution of Inspection and Test Plans (ITPs) and manufacturing schedules

·         Ensure all quality standards and customer requirements are met prior to shipment release

·         Support continuous improvement initiatives related to quality and project execution processes

Supplier & Aftermarket Oversight

·         Manage key subcontractor relationships, including performance monitoring and issue resolution

·         Lead corrective action efforts with suppliers to ensure quality and delivery expectations are met

·         Oversee execution of high-volume aftermarket orders and small market projects

Leadership & Continuous Improvement

·         Drive standardization and improvement of project management tools, processes, and reporting

·         Support a culture of accountability, collaboration, and operational excellence

·         Coach and develop team members to strengthen overall project management capability

·         Identify opportunities for efficiency, cost savings, and process optimization

Travel & Additional Responsibilities

·         Conduct customer and supplier site visits as required

·         Perform other duties as assigned

·         Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related field

·         Project Management Professional (PMP) certification (Required)

·         5–8+ years of project management experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment

·         Strong expertise in engineer-to-order manufacturing processes (machining, welding, assembly, testing, painting)

·         Demonstrated experience leading complex, cross-functional projects with full ownership

·         Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, forecasting, and cost control

·         Experience working with supply chain, production planning, quality, and customer service functions

·         Proven ability to manage multiple high-impact projects simultaneously

·         Exceptional communication and leadership skills across all organizational levels

·         Highly organized, detail-oriented, and results-driven

·         Strong problem-solving skills, including data analysis and implementation of sustainable solutions

·         Ability to adapt quickly in a fast-paced, evolving environment

Preferred Qualifications

·         Lean Six Sigma certification

·         Experience mentoring or leading project management teams

·         Working knowledge of ERP planning systems; Plex experience preferred

·         Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office (especially Excel and Project tracking tools)

Physical Requirements

·         Ability to sit, stand, and walk within both office and production environments

·         Occasional lifting of up to 20 lbs

·         Visual acuity for computer screens and technical documentation

·         Ability to wear required PPE on the shop floor

·         Frequent use of hands for typing and document handling

API Heat Transfer, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We comply with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws and do not discriminate on the basis of any protected status.