Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Program Manager

Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina•Raleigh, NC

7h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Program Manager will support North Carolina manufacturers through the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP). This role involves working directly with manufacturers across the state to help them identify opportunities, navigate available resources, and connect with partners for workforce development, operational improvement, productivity, exports, and business growth. The position acts as a key connector between manufacturers and a statewide network of economic development, workforce, education, and manufacturing support organizations. The ideal candidate enjoys building relationships, solving problems, engaging stakeholders, and helping companies succeed.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in business, economics, public policy, marketing, economic development, workforce development, manufacturing, planning, or a related field.
Three or more years of relevant professional experience.
Experience working with manufacturers, economic development organizations, workforce systems, business support organizations, or federally funded programs is preferred.
Strong communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills.
Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with diverse stakeholders.
Familiarity with CRM systems such as Salesforce is preferred.
Valid North Carolina driver's license required.

Nice To Haves

Experience in one or more of the following areas is preferred: Economic development, Manufacturing or industrial operations, Business retention and expansion (BRE), Workforce development, Business services or client relationship management, Program administration or stakeholder engagement, Public-private partnerships.

Responsibilities

Build and maintain relationships with North Carolina manufacturers, industry partners, and stakeholders.
Promote awareness and utilization of NCMEP services and resources available to manufacturers across the state.
Conduct outreach to understand manufacturer needs and connect companies with appropriate programs, services, and partners.
Collaborate with Existing Industry Expansion Managers, NC State Industry Expansion Solutions (IES), workforce organizations, community colleges, and other partners to support manufacturers and strengthen North Carolina's manufacturing ecosystem.
Support program goals through stakeholder engagement, economic impact reporting, survey participation, and ongoing communication with participating manufacturers.
Track program activities, outcomes, and performance metrics while supporting reporting and compliance requirements.
Represent EDPNC through meetings, conferences, presentations, industry events, and stakeholder engagement activities throughout North Carolina.

Benefits

Competitive compensation and performance incentives that reward impact and results
Hybrid work schedule that supports flexibility, and balance
Generous time off , including 4 weeks of PTO, 9 paid holidays, 3 sick and wellness days, and 3 flex holidays
401(k) with a 5% employer match after six months to help you build long-term financial security
Paid parental leave , including 8 weeks of maternity leave and 4 weeks of paternal leave, because family matters
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage , with HSA and FSA options
Company paid short- and long-term disability coverage as well as 50K life insurance for added peace of mind
Employee Assistance Program that covers your entire household’s wellbeing
Voluntary benefit options such as critical illness, accident, hospital indemnity, life insurance and pet insurance
Corporate amenities such as paid parking, gym access and complimentary snacks
Family Forward Certified , reflecting our commitment to family-friendly workplace practices