A Project Manager manages work on projects with a defined scope, start and completion point. Leads project teams, manages project budgets and schedules; manages contractors and communications with stakeholders. May manage projects in construction, information technology or in other industries.
Monday-Friday | 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM (travel required as needed) We are currently seeking an experienced Project Manager for a full-time, direct hire opportunity supporting complex railcar manufacturing projects. This role is ideal for a project management professional with engineering experience who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and enjoys working closely with customers, vendors, and cross-functional teams. Primary Objective Support the successful execution of large-scale railcar manufacturing projects by coordinating vendors, tracking project milestones, managing deliverables, mitigating risks, and ensuring contractual, financial, and customer requirements are achieved. This role works closely with the Project Manager while taking ownership of day-to-day project execution activities. Project Management Levels This position utilizes a progressive ranking system based on project and vendor management capabilities: Level 5: Independently manages vendors without Project Manager support Level 4: Proactively controls vendor performance to prevent future project impacts Level 3: Manages vendor deliverables including production schedules and issue resolution Level 2: Oversees daily vendor progress in collaboration with engineering teams Level 1: Supports vendor management under Project Manager guidance Essential Responsibilities Project Coordination & Execution Support the Project Manager with daily project execution and tactical activities Coordinate Project Coordinators and oversee daily priorities Track project schedules, milestones, deliverables, FMI's, and action items Manage project deliverable completion and documentation Support Project Execution Team (PET) and Project Cost Management Group (PCMG) activities Vendor & Contract Management Assist in managing major suppliers throughout production, delivery, and warranty phases Monitor vendor performance, schedules, and issue resolution Support supplier negotiations with Project Manager oversight Understand customer contracts and subcontract agreements Coordinate with vendors to achieve project objectives Communication & Documentation Manage project correspondence including letters, reports, meeting minutes, and memorandums Maintain project databases and reporting metrics Prepare customer and internal project reports Serve as liaison between customers, vendors, affiliates, and internal departments Risk & Financial Management Identify project risks including cost, schedule, and technical challenges Develop and execute mitigation plans Support achievement of contractual financial milestones Monitor project performance against budget and schedule Meetings & Customer Interface Participate in customer, supplier, and internal project meetings Represent the company during design reviews, reliability meetings, and technical discussions Travel domestically and internationally as project requirements dictate Qualifications Education Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Systems Engineering Experience Minimum 5 years of experience in: Project Management Project Engineering Project Administration Preferred Experience Mechanical, Electrical, or Systems Design Railcar Design Rail Industry or related heavy manufacturing experience Skills Excellent communication and interpersonal skills Strong project planning and organizational abilities Vendor management experience Contract administration knowledge Meeting facilitation and stakeholder coordination Strong computer and project tracking software skills Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment Work Environment This position combines office-based project management with frequent interaction with manufacturing operations, customers, vendors, and suppliers. Domestic and international travel may be required depending on project needs. Company Overview Founded in 2010, Top Prospect Group was built on the philosophy of connecting exceptional talent with leading employers while fostering long-term partnerships. In 2023, Top Prospect Group became part of HW Staffing Solutions, expanding its capabilities across professional, engineering, technology, and manufacturing staffing services nationwide. Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply immediately. Please submit a clean copy of your resume, along with your salary expectations and professional references. #INDTPGSHELTON