New Product Development (NPD) Program Manager

MILLERBERND MANUFACTURING COMPANY LLC•Sauk Rapids, MN

153d•$125,000 - $150,000•Onsite

About The Position

Millerbernd Manufacturing is hiring a New Product Development (NPD) Program Manager to join our Circular Products (CP) team. The (NPD) Program Manager is responsible for leading the development, execution, and successful launch of new products that drive profitable growth for the organization. This role combines technical expertise, project management excellence, and strategic leadership to deliver high-quality products on time, within budget, and to quality standards. The NPD Program Manager will align cross functional teams including Engineering, Planning & Scheduling, Manufacturing, Sales, Supply-Chain and Quality—as well as external customers to ensure alignment with business objectives and customer needs. This is an onsite opportunity based in Sauk Rapids, MN.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, or related field) or work experience in place of education
7+ years of experience in product development, engineering, or manufacturing, including 3+ years in a leadership or project management role preferred
Proven success leading cross-functional product development initiatives from customer RFQ through production stabilization
PMP certification or formal project management training preferred
Strong understanding of engineering principles, manufacturing processes, and design for manufacturability
Excellent project management, organizational, and communication skills
Financial acumen and experience in developing and managing project budgets
Ability to lead, motivate, and develop high-performing teams
Strong problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making abilities
Proficient with MS Office and project management software; CAD experience is a plus
Ability and willingness to take a “hands-on” approach to meeting project scope and timing, including assisting project team members in completion of deliverables as needed

Responsibilities

Lead and develop the NPD team capable of executing multiple high-impact initiatives concurrently, providing direction, support, and mentorship to achieve project and business goals
Oversee all stages of new product development—from concept through production validation ensuring alignment with cost, quality, and schedule targets are met throughout the product life cycle
Collaborate closely with sales, engineering, operations, supply-chain, quality, and scheduling to ensure smooth program execution and alignment to delight our customers
Data driven decision-maker who manages multiple high impact project timelines, budgets, and resources; Evaluate business cases and capital investments to support new product opportunities and strategic initiatives
Identify, assess, and mitigate program risks including technical, operations, supply chain, and schedule challenges to ensure successful project execution
Establish and monitor project timelines, budgets, and deliverables to meet performance goals and profitability targets
Drive continuous improvement in NPD processes, tools, and collaboration to enhance innovation and efficiency
Serve as the primary escalation point for all NPD projects with customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders, ensuring clear communication and transparency to align expectations and delivering value-added solutions

Benefits

Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance – Two medical plan options, with company HSA contributions
Health & Flexible Spending Accounts (HSA/FSA) – For medical and dependent care expenses
Life & Disability Insurance – Company-paid basic life, AD&D, and short-/long-term disability
Voluntary Benefits – Including optional life, legal & ID protection, accident & critical illness insurance
401(k) with 4% Match – Immediate vesting
Incentive Pay – Performance-based bonus programs depending on your role and shift
This role is eligible for participation in the company’s “Short-Term Incentive Plan (STIP)”, a financial performance-based bonus program
Payouts are determined by the company’s operational results and are distributed in the first quarter of the subsequent year
Unlimited Paid Time Off (PTO) + Paid Holidays
Tuition Reimbursement – Up to $5,250/year for job-related education
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Free, confidential support services
Onsite Training – Includes leadership, welding, and language courses
Uniform Subsidy – For eligible roles