NPI Program Manager

About the role

Responsible for leading the end-to-end NPI – TOW Projects from initial customer concept to full-scale production.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the gated NPI process (Concept to Serial Production) using frameworks like APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) and PPAP. Coordinate cross-functional teams across Engineering, Quality, Tooling, Procurement, and Operations.
• Manage the technical risk register. Lead Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (PFMEA) and establish rigorous control plans to prevent manufacturing defects during initial trial runs and raw material processing.
• Develop and track detailed Integrated Master Schedules (IMS) and Work Breakdown Structures (WBS) via MS Project. Manage program budgets, non-recurring engineering (NRE) costs, and tooling expenditures.
• Ensure all production steps comply with AS9100 Quality Management Systems. Coordinate special process certifications (e.g., heat treating, non-destructive testing (NDT), chemical processing, Assembly through NADCAP requirements.
• Partner with procurement to source high-grade raw metals, forgings, and castings. Conduct Supplier Readiness Reviews to ensure external sub-tier processors are equipped to handle initial ramp-up capacities.
• Liaise with Customer program Manager regarding the project timeline and support customer call as needed.

About you

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Materials Science/Metallurgy, or a related technical discipline.
• 5 to 10+ years of project or program management experience within an aerospace manufacturing environment, specifically handling structural components or metallics fabrication.
• Proven experience with aerospace metallic manufacturing methods, such as multi-axis CNC machining, casting, precision forging, sheet metal fabrication, and heat treatment.
• Basic understanding of end-to-end project management, APQP, PPAP requirements.
• Familiarity with Aerospace Customer requirements.
• Proficiency with program management, ERP, problem solving tools.
• Strong leadership capabilities with the ability to influence cross-functional matrix teams without direct authority.