Project Manager I

About the Role

We are seeking a detail-oriented Project Manager I to support Vendor Management & Prototype Manufacturing Operations. This hands-on role focuses on coordinating outsourced prototype work, managing vendor communications, supporting production scheduling, and ensuring timely fulfillment of hardware deliverables.

The position is ideal for professionals with early-career experience in manufacturing operations, prototype shops, or supply chain coordination who thrive in fast-paced hardware environments with tight production timelines.

This role is fully onsite and involves direct interaction with hardware components and shop-floor processes.

Key Responsibilities

Vendor Management & Prototype Outsourcing

• Process purchase orders and track outsourced prototype production status
• Coordinate with external manufacturing vendors (CNC machining, 3D printing)
• Communicate technical drawings and specifications to vendors
• Monitor delivery timelines and follow up on order status
• Assist with vendor performance tracking and documentation

Quality Inspection & Technical Verification

• Inspect incoming prototype parts against technical specifications
• Use calipers, micrometers, and gauges to verify tolerances and dimensions
• Identify and escalate quality or specification deviations
• Maintain inspection logs and quality documentation

Work Management & Fulfillment

• Coordinate shipping logistics for prototype components
• Manage inbound/outbound materials for external vendors
• Track thousands of parts across concurrent prototype projects
• Maintain accurate project records in tracking systems and spreadsheets
• Support rapid prototyping timelines with shifting priorities

Required Qualifications

• 1–2 years of experience in manufacturing operations, prototype environments, supply chain coordination, or technical vendor management
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and basic GD&T callouts
• Hands-on experience using measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges)
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills
• Clear written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and order tracking systems
• Comfortable working in a shop-floor environment
• Ability to lift packages up to 50 lbs

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in CNC machining, prototype manufacturing, or job shop environments
• Familiarity with machining processes (milling, turning, grinding)
• Exposure to 3D printing technologies (FDM, SLA, SLS)
• Experience with ERP or manufacturing job tracking software
• Understanding of packaging and shipping requirements for precision parts
• Experience supporting rapid prototyping programs with compressed timelines

Work Environment

• Onsite role (Sunnyvale, CA)
• Shop-floor and manufacturing environment
• Collaborative work with hardware product teams and external vendors

Key skills/competency

• Project Management
• Vendor Management
• Prototype Manufacturing
• Supply Chain Coordination
• Technical Drawings
• GD&T
• Quality Inspection
• Metrology Tools
• Logistics
• Hardware Development