Project Manager I

Project Manager I at North Star Staffing

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

Equal Opportunity Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and consider all qualified applicants without regard to legally protected characteristics. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request in accordance with applicable laws.

Key skills/competency

• Vendor Management
• Prototype Manufacturing
• Supply Chain Coordination
• Technical Drawings Interpretation
• Quality Inspection
• Measurement Tools
• Logistics Coordination
• Project Tracking
• Shop-floor Operations
• Rapid Prototyping