Project Manager

Project Manager (Automation) - $90k-$120k / annually DOE!

This position is a direct hire opportunity!

Integrity Trade Services is hiring a Project Manager (Automation) for our metal fabrication client to start immediately at $90k-$120k / annually DOE! Receive comprehensive benefits through our client upon hire!

Responsibilities :

As Project Manager, you’ll lead projects from concept through final installation and customer training. You’ll coordinate between customers, the internal team, General Managers, Sales teams, and outside vendors — ensuring every project is delivered on time, within budget, and to the high standards our client is known for. While some projects involve automation or engineered systems, this role primarily focuses on effective project leadership, organization, and communication across teams to deliver successful outcomes.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a hands-on environment, enjoys coordinating multiple moving parts, and takes pride in delivering automation solutions that exceed customer expectations.

1. Project Planning & Coordination

• Lead projects from kickoff through installation, commissioning, and customer training.
• Collaborate with engineers, General Managers, and Sales teams to define scope, budget, timelines, and deliverables.
• Develop detailed project schedules and track milestones, costs, and progress.
• Conduct project kickoff meetings to align expectations, roles, and communication channels.
• Ensure proper inventory, materials, and technical resources are ordered and scheduled for each project.

2. Customer Communication & Relationship Management

Serve as the primary point of contact for customers throughout the project lifecycle.

Maintain proactive communication on progress, milestones, and potential challenges.

Facilitate technical discussions between customers and engineers to ensure expectations are met.

Manage customer approvals and change requests at key project phases.

Lead project closeout and post-installation reviews, ensuring a professional handoff and strong long-term relationship.

3. Project Execution & Tracking

Oversee daily project execution to ensure on-time, on-budget delivery with high quality.

Monitor schedules, budgets, materials, and team assignments.

Provide weekly project summary updates to the Director and CEO highlighting progress, risks, and next steps.

Identify risks early and lead the search for solutions to keep projects moving forward.

4. Installation, Commissioning & Training

Oversee the final installation, testing, and customer handoff of projects, ensuring readiness, quality, and safety. Coordinate closely with customers, internal teams, and service staff to ensure smooth delivery and strong customer satisfaction.

Coordinate on-site work with internal and external teams, ensuring all aspects of the project are aligned and executed effectively.

Ensure successful customer communication and training as needed, providing clear documentation and ensuring confidence in project outcomes.

Conduct pre- and post-installation inspections to verify readiness, safety, and performance standards.

Manage punch lists, warranty reviews, and transition projects smoothly to service and support.

5. Vendor & Partner Management

Manage relationships with third-party vendors, subcontractors, and technology partners.

Track deliverables, timelines, and performance to ensure all contributions meet our client's standards.

Negotiate vendor scope and terms to align with project goals and safety requirements.

6. Continuous Improvement & Team Collaboration

Capture lessons learned and share best practices to strengthen our client's project management processes.

Work closely with engineering, service, and sales teams to improve handoffs and execution.

Support internal training, onboarding, and development of future project leaders.

Location : Schaumburg, IL

25% Travel. Equates to about 3-4 times a month travelling to our client's other Midwest locations for 1-2 nights at a time. Can be less depending on the time of year.

Schedule / Shift Details : First shift, Monday-Friday

Qualifications :

5+ years of experience managing automation, robotics, or engineered system projects.

Proven success in managing complex projects to completion with cross-functional teams.

Strong customer communication and relationship management skills.

Experience leading installation, commissioning, and customer training.

Skilled in vendor management, scheduling, and cost control.

Proficiency with project management software (MS Project, Smartsheet, or similar).

Excellent written and verbal communication; able to simplify complex information.

Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities.

Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel up to 25%.

Preferred Qualifications

PMP, CAPM, or equivalent project management certification.

Experience in robotics, automation, or industrial equipment integration.

Familiarity with PLCs, HMIs, motion systems, and controls integration.

Understanding of Lean, Agile, or Stage-Gate project methodologies.

Experience with SolidWorks or similar design software.

Hands-on mechanical or electrical background a plus

Benefits :

Medical

Dental

Vision

PTO