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Program Manager – Manufacturing Launch & Ramp-Up (PPAP/APQP)
Location:
St. Louis, MO (100% on site)
Type:
3-month contract with potential extension or conversion to permanent
About the Opportunity
An established aerospace manufacturer is looking for a hands-on Program Manager to lead a high-priority energy-sector program at its St. Louis facility. The program has completed qualification and first article inspection and is now in low-volume production heading into ramp-up, with significant growth expected.
This is a dedicated, single-program role. You’ll own the program end to end, lead the team directly on the floor, and be the main point of contact for a demanding, highly engaged customer.
What You’ll Do
Own day-to-day execution of a dedicated manufacturing program through ramp-up, covering lathe turning, honing, welding, CMM inspection, packaging and shipping
Drive project milestones and contract requirements, and make sure product ships to the customer on schedule
Build and lead recovery plans when the program falls behind, and get customer buy-in on them
Identify and mitigate risks, and drive solutions on critical-path issues
Manage PPAP and APQP deliverables through production launch and ramp
Serve as the main customer contact: daily status updates, onsite customer visits, and quarterly program management reviews (PMRs)
Report program status regularly to PMO leadership
What You Bring
Hands-on PPAP experience (required)
APQP experience
Proven track record as a tactical, hands-on project or program manager who leads the team directly
Experience with manufacturing launch, new product introduction, or production ramp-up
Strong customer-facing communication skills and comfort presenting to customers
US citizen or permanent resident (required for ITAR compliance)
Nice to Have
Automotive manufacturing background
Aerospace or energy-sector manufacturing experience
Experience running customer program reviews
Familiarity with machining, welding, or CMM inspection
Bachelor’s degree or PMP certification (not required)
Schedule & Travel
On site Monday–Friday in St. Louis
Occasional paid Saturdays only if the program needs it
Non-local candidates are welcome. Travel home about two weekends a month can be arranged.
Travel and living expenses are covered
You should be proficient in: