outformChicago, IL
Development Project Manager
Development Project Manager
Development Project Manager
outformChicago, IL
today
Indoor and Outdoor Display AdvertisingOther Specialized Design ServicesShowcase, Partition, Shelving, and Locker Manufacturing
Apply for this role →Development Project Manager Outform is seeking an organized, proactive, and results-oriented Development Project Manager (DPM) to manage the development of custom permanent display projects initiated by our Sales and Account Management teams. In this role, you will help lead project lifecycles from initial concept and requirement gathering through prototyping, material procurement, manufacturing, and production rollout. Serving as a key liaison between Sales, Engineering, Purchasing, and Plant Operations, you will translate sales concepts into actionable manufacturing details while keeping budgets, timelines, material sourcing, and quality standards on track in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Project Planning, Specifications & Financial Management Requirement Gathering & Specs: Translate sales intake data into project specifications, defining material requirements, functional expectations, timelines, and budgets. Project Tracking: Simultaneously manage multiple display jobs, supporting project planning, timing, execution, budget control, and risk mitigation from start to finish. ERP & BOM Entry: Input accurate project data within the ERP system, finalizing and uploading Bills of Materials (BOMs) and manufacturing work orders.2. Cross-Functional Liaison & Technical Translation Inter-Departmental Alignment: Act as a central liaison between Account Management, Purchasing, Engineering, and Plant Operations to maintain clear project communication. Drawing & Production Detailing: Work closely with Engineering on drawing packages, ensuring design intent is clearly interpreted and actionable for factory floor fabricators. Clear Communication: Distill technical and timeline updates into clear, concise messaging for internal teams and clients.3. Prototype Development & Manufacturing Oversight Prototype to Production: Drive display development from initial 3D prototypes through first-article builds and final production runs. Plant Floor Coordination: Monitor manufacturing and fabrication processes on the shop floor to ensure adherence to project specs and quality benchmarks. Hands-On Support: Read engineering drawings to assist with prototype evaluation and structural review as required.4. Sourcing, Procurement & Vendor Support Material Purchasing: Order and track required raw materials and sub-components within established timeframes to support factory schedules. Vendor Coordination: Obtain quotes and coordinate with external suppliers for optimal project costing, quality, and lead times. Multi-Material Sourcing: Track fabrication across diverse materials and manufacturing methods, including acrylics, metals, woods, and plastics.
Job Qualifications
Required Qualifications
Experience:
2–4 years of Project Management or Project Coordination experience within a manufacturing environment (producing permanent retail displays, fixtures, or custom fabrications).Technical Literacy: Ability to read, interpret, and review engineering drawings, schematics, and BOMs. Material & Process Knowledge: Solid foundational knowledge of manufacturing and fabrication techniques across multiple substrates (acrylic, sheet metal, tubing, wood, laminate, etc.).Software & Systems: Experience creating work orders, entering data, and uploading BOMs in ERP/MRP manufacturing systems. Execution Focus: Proven ability to manage timelines, budgets, and tight deadlines in a deadline-oriented environment. Preferred
Qualifications:
Degree in Project Management, Industrial Design, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field. Proactive problem-solver with strong organizational and time-management skills. Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to coordinate across multiple departments.
Core Competencies:
Project Planning & Schedule Management Cross-Functional Communication (Sales, Engineering, Production)Multi-Material Manufacturing Aptitude (Acrylic, Metal, Wood)ERP / BOM Data Entry & File Management Vendor Coordination & Material Sourcing Physical Demands &
Work Environment:
Working conditions are split between a standard office setting and an active manufacturing plant floor. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, sit, bend, twist, reach, and use hands to inspect display components and tools. Must be able to stand for extended periods on the factory floor and lift/move materials up to 50 lbs. Travel up to 10% may be required for client meetings, vendor reviews, or offsite evaluations. Outform does not provide visa sponsorship now or in the future. Outform does not provide relocation assistance. Outform Group is an equal opportunity employer. Outform Group makes employment decisions and provides equal employment opportunity without regard to an applicant's or employee's race, sex, color, age, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state, and local laws. If you need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, please notify the Outform Group Human Resources department. Outform Group, Inc. offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package to include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) and matching contributions, HSA and FSA, leave programs, paid time off including holidays, and we continually review to align and update our benefit offerings.
Also on the board Same function, level within a rung
Level
Senior
Location
Chicago, IL
Occupation
Project Management Specialists
Industry
Indoor and Outdoor Display Advertising
Posted
today