Engineering projects manager

JOB PURPOSE
The Engineering Projects Manager will oversee the planning, execution, and completion of a variety of engineering and development projects. This role ensures that projects are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget while meeting Kennon’s standards for quality and innovation. The Project Manager will collaborate across multiple departments to coordinate resources, define project scope and goals, monitor progress, and communicate results. Projects may include internal product development, external engineering service contracts, and grant-funded initiatives (e.g., SBIR). This position reports to the Director of Engineering, Development.

JOB DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES
 Manage multiple engineering and development projects from initiation to closeout.
 Develop detailed project plans, including timelines, milestones, and resource allocation.
 Coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure smooth and timely execution.
 Track and report on project performance, budgets, and key milestones.
 Identify project risks (time, technical, budget) and proactively integrate mitigation efforts alongside project team members.
 Collaborate with engineering, operations, and manufacturing teams to ensure seamless handoffs and product launches.
 Work closely with customer organizations—including Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, and other defense contractors—to define requirements, align expectations, communicate status, and ensure project milestones are met.
 Facilitate regular communication and coordination with customer technical leads, project managers, and procurement agents.
 Prepare and present formal project updates, technical reviews, and status reports to internal stakeholders.
 Support proposal writing and budget development for government and commercial opportunities.
 Ensure alignment of projects with company strategy, quality systems, and regulatory requirements.
 Promote a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and collaboration.
 Perform other duties as assigned. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS
 Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or related field.
 3+ years of project management experience, preferably in an engineering or manufacturing environment.
 Demonstrated experience managing multiple projects simultaneously.
 Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.
 Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
 Proficiency in project management tools and software.
 Strong interpersonal skills, with a professional demeanor when engaging with high-level customer representatives.
 Understanding of budgeting, scheduling, and resource allocation.  Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing priorities.
 Occasional travel may be required.
 US citizenship required

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS
 PMP certification or equivalent.
 Experience with SBIR or other government grant-funded projects.
 Familiarity with defense contracting processes and standards (e.g., DFARS, ITAR compliance).
 Knowledge of Lean practices and product development lifecycles.
 Technical writing experience for proposals and reports.

POSITION TYPE AND SALARY RANGE
Full-time. $75K-$125K, dependent on experience.

SUBMISSION INFORMATION
Kennon is an equal opportunity employer and will seriously consider every qualified applicant interested in joining our growing team. Please apply through our webpage: https://kennonproducts.com/careers/ Questions or accessibility issues may be directed to: recruiting@kennoncovers.com 

ABOUT KENNON
Kennon Products has a forty-year history of proudly designing and manufacturing quality products that protect high value assets. Founded in 1984 to provide general aviation products, Kennon has grown into a multi-faceted company with international sales. We lead with cutting edge research and development, utilization of advanced materials and composites, and delivery of diverse product lines that include preservation of private, commercial, and military aircraft integrity; safety in behavioral health; and life-protection for our service men and women. Our success has come through consistently providing innovation, ensuring superior design, and maintaining our commitment to quality. Together, we deliver innovative solutions to protect what matters most.