Project Manager I – Prototype Manufacturing & Vendor Coordination

Linda Werner & Associates•Sunnyvale, CA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The organization is seeking a highly organized and execution‑focused Project Manager to support two critical operational functions: Vendor Management & Project Outsourcing and Work Management & Fulfillment. This role plays a central part in coordinating prototype manufacturing workflows, managing external vendors, and ensuring timely delivery of precision components. The ideal candidate thrives in fast‑paced prototype environments, understands the urgency of CNC and 3D‑printed part production, and can manage multiple concurrent projects with accuracy and consistency. This is a hands-on role requiring strong technical aptitude, excellent communication, and the ability to work closely with engineering, product teams, and manufacturing partners.

Requirements

1–2 years of experience in manufacturing operations, prototype shops, supply chain coordination, or technical vendor management.
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, basic GD&T, and manufacturing specifications.
Proficiency with measurement tools such as calipers, micrometers, and gauges.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects without losing detail.
Clear written and verbal communication skills for vendor coordination and customer updates.
Experience with order management systems, spreadsheets, and Microsoft Office Suite.
Ability to work in a shop‑floor environment, including lifting up to 50 lbs.
Strong multitasking and organizational capabilities.
Direct hardware‑focused experience.
Ability to physically inspect and measure parts.

Nice To Haves

Experience in CNC machining, prototype manufacturing, or job‑shop environments.
Knowledge of machining processes (milling, turning, grinding) and manufacturing terminology.
Experience with 3D printing technologies (FDM, SLA, SLS) and post‑processing.
Familiarity with ERP or job‑tracking systems used in custom manufacturing.
Understanding of packaging and shipping requirements for precision parts.
Experience coordinating with technical vendors or managing procurement workflows.
Exposure to rapid prototyping environments with shifting priorities and tight timelines.
CAT (computer‑aided tooling) experience.
Experience with design software.

Responsibilities

Process purchase orders and track status for outsourced prototype work and materials.
Receive and inspect vendor deliveries to ensure compliance with technical specifications and quality standards.
Use measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges) to verify dimensions and tolerances.
Maintain vendor tracking systems, databases, and quality documentation.
Coordinate shipping logistics for materials sent to vendors and prototype returns.
File vendor documentation, contracts, and quality records.
Support routine vendor communications and follow‑ups as directed by technical specialists.
Assist with vendor scorecards and performance data collection.
Communicate technical specifications to vendors and escalate quality or delivery issues.
Coordinate prototype manufacturing workflows and production schedules.
Manage logistics and tracking for thousands of hardware components.
Support product managers and observe device manufacturing processes as needed.
Ensure timely fulfillment of prototype deliverables to internal customers.
Maintain accuracy across multiple simultaneous projects with varying technical requirements.