Project Leader - Operations

Walter Surface Technologies Incorporated•Seneca, SC

18h•Onsite

About The Position

The Project Leader – Operations is responsible for driving high-impact, cross-functional initiatives across manufacturing, logistics, and distribution networks. This role leads projects end-to-end—from concept through execution—ensuring delivery on time, within budget, and aligned with strategic objectives. With a strong emphasis on timeline integrity, data-driven decision-making, and operational excellence, the Project Leader leverages advanced analytics, visualization tools, and structured project methodologies to identify risks, optimize performance, and deliver measurable business outcomes. Reporting directly to the Director of Operations Manager, this role acts as a key connector between operations, engineering, supply chain, and executive leadership.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in: Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Logistics / Supply Chain, Business, Finance, or related analytical field
5+ years of experience leading operations or supply chain projects
Proven success delivering complex, cross-functional initiatives
Experience in manufacturing, distribution, or logistics environments
Strong understanding of project management methodologies and tools
Strong understanding of critical path and schedule modeling
Strong understanding of supply chain and operational processes
Advanced data analysis and visualization (Power BI, Tableau, Excel)
Ability to build KPIs and performance tracking systems
Strong sense of urgency and accountability
Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking skills
Ability to influence and drive results without direct authority
Clear and effective communicator across all organizational levels
Highly organized with strong time and priority management
Adaptable in fast-paced, evolving environments

Nice To Haves

Exposure to network optimization, automation, or facility design is an asset
Experience with ERP, WMS, and AutoCAD (asset)

Responsibilities

Lead strategic initiatives such as: Plant consolidations and capacity expansions, New customer/product launches, Distribution center design, construction, or retrofit, Automation and technology implementations
Define project scope, objectives, risks, and deliverables through formal project charters
Manage full project lifecycle: planning, execution, monitoring, and post-mortem analysis
Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to defined specifications
Build and manage detailed project schedules, including Gantt charts and critical path analysis
Monitor milestones and proactively identify risks or delays
Drive accountability across cross-functional teams without direct authority
Develop and execute recovery plans when timelines are at risk
Manage project dependencies and resource allocation
Identify and implement process improvements across: Manufacturing operations, Warehousing and distribution, Transportation and logistics
Conduct process mapping and eliminate non-value-added activities
Analyze flow of goods and optimize layouts, capacity, and efficiency
Act as a subject matter expert (SME) for continuous improvement initiatives
Develop automated dashboards and reports using tools such as Power BI, Tableau, or Excel
Translate complex operational data into clear, actionable insights for leadership
Track KPIs and measure project performance against business cases
Leverage AI tools and modern software to streamline reporting and workflow tracking
Build business cases including cost-benefit analysis, ROI, and risk assessment
Support CAPEX planning, budgeting, and financial tracking
Ensure financial discipline and alignment with approved funding
Collaborate with Operations, Supply Chain, Engineering, Sales, and external partners
Lead cross-functional project teams and facilitate alignment
Communicate project status, risks, and outcomes to senior leadership
Establish structured communication plans and reporting mechanisms