Project ManagerThe Project Manager is responsible for leading the planning, coordination, and execution of complex projects within a manufacturing environment. This role supports the successful introduction of new products, equipment, and processes into production by managing facility modifications, equipment installation, and production readiness activities.The position works cross-functionally with engineering, operations, maintenance, quality, and external contractors to translate project requirements into fully operational manufacturing systems. The Project Manager ensures projects are delivered safely, on time, within scope, and aligned with business and customer expectations, while maintaining compliance with all applicable safety and regulatory standards.Location: Multi: Bowling Green, OH and Perrysburg, OHEssential Duties and ResponsibilitiesLead end-to-end execution of projects, with a strong emphasis on new product integration (NPI), including facility modifications, equipment installation, and production line setupManage project scope, timelines, budgets, and deliverables to ensure successful project completionCoordinate with contractors, vendors, and internal teams for building changes, utilities, and infrastructure needs (electrical, mechanical, fire protection, etc.)Oversee facility and production layout development, including electricity requirements, CFM requirements, equipment placement and workflow optimizationSupport engineering and operations in transitioning new products from development into full-scale productionEnsure compliance with all safety, building, and regulatory requirements throughout project executionMonitor on-site project activity, including contractor work, installation progress, and commissioning effortsIdentify risks, manage ambiguity, and drive timely resolutions to keep projects on trackServe as a key point of contact for project communication across internal teams and external stakeholdersSupport equipment startup, validation, and handoff to operationsDevelop and maintain project documentation, including schedules, layouts, and standard operating proceduresFacilitate communication across cross-functional teams to ensure alignment and accountabilityDrive continuous improvement related to project execution, layout efficiency, and operational readinessSupport 5S, safety, and lean manufacturing initiativesQualificationsEducationBachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial, or related) or Business preferred, not requiredExperience/Skills3-5 years managing projects in a manufacturing, industrial, or construction-related environmentExperience supporting new product introduction, equipment installation, or production readiness activities strongly preferredStrong ability to coordinate and manage contractors, vendors, and cross-functional teamsExperience with facility modifications, equipment installation, or production line implementationUnderstanding of building systems (electrical, mechanical, utilities, fire protection)Ability to read and interpret blueprints, layouts, and technical drawingsStrong project management skills, including scheduling, prioritization, and risk managementKnowledge of safety and regulatory compliance (OSHA, NFPA, general building requirements, etc.)Strong communication and cross-functional coordination skillsProficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Project, PowerPoint, Word)Highly organized with strong attention to detailPreferredExperience working for or closely with a contracting company (general contractor, mechanical/electrical contractor, etc.)Experience with new product introduction, facility startup, or capital projectsFamiliarity with CAD or layout review toolsKnowledge of lean manufacturing or process improvement conceptsExperience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP) and supply chain coordinationWork EnvironmentCombination of office and manufacturing/construction floor environmentFrequent walking, standing, and coordination in active production and construction areasPPE required in designated areas (safety glasses, steel-toe shoes, etc.)About Vital:Vital Materials is a global materials technology and equipment company.
Established in 1995 in China, Vital Materials has vertically integrated industrial and commercial operations located in North and South America (Head Office in US), Europe (Head Office in Belgium), and Asia (Head Office in China) with over 6,000 employees worldwide.Vital Materials evolved rapidly since our founding, yet we remain focused in the areas of rare-metals-based advanced materials and resource recycling. We are the world's leading manufacturer of selenium and tellurium products as well as being a key producer of gallium, indium, germanium, bismuth, and cadmium products for diverse end markets and hi-tech applications including semiconductors, displays, electronics, photovoltaics, LED, infrared materials, acousto-optics, thermoelectrics, photosensors, radiation detectors, pharmaceuticals, feed additives, glass, ceramics, and metallurgy. In addition, we produce custom manufacturing equipment for many industries like the energy, semiconductor, and automotive industry just to name a few.