SENIOR PROGRAM MANAGER in Blaine, Minnesota at Chandler Industries LLC

About us:

Chandler Industries is a premier contract manufacturer specializing in precision machining, EDM, sheet metal fabrication, and a range of value-added services. We excel in providing exceptional value through responsive customer service, technical expertise, and innovative lean manufacturing practices. Our commitment to delivering world-class quality and on-time performance has made us a trusted partner for our customers. Chandler operates five divisions, including four in Minnesota—Blaine, Long Prairie, Montevideo, and Wyoming—and one in Lake Mills, Wisconsin.

The Senior Program Manager is responsible for managing customer programs of increased complexity and scope. This role serves as a key liaison between customers and internal teams, ensuring successful execution of programs across quality, delivery, and service expectations.

The Senior Program Manager operates with a higher level of independence, manages larger or multiple customer programs, and supports resolution of more complex issues. This role also provides guidance and support to Program Managers while driving consistent execution and strong customer relationships.

Program Execution & Ownership

• Lead medium to high complexity programs from kickoff through production and delivery
• Develop and manage program schedules, milestones, and deliverables
• Ensure on-time delivery performance across prototype, FAI, and production phases
• Proactively identify risks and implement mitigation plans
• Monitor program performance including delivery, quality, and cost

Customer Interface & Escalation

• Serve as primary point of contact for key customer programs
• Lead customer meetings, program reviews, and status updates
• Communicate schedule changes, risks, and corrective actions clearly and proactively
• Support resolution of customer concerns, including escalations when needed
• Build strong, professional relationships with customers

Cross-Functional Leadership

• Coordinate activities across Engineering, Operations, Quality, and Supply Chain
• Lead internal program reviews and execution meetings
• Ensure manufacturing readiness prior to production release
• Drive accountability and follow-through across functional teams

Quality, Compliance & Issue Resolution

• Ensure adherence to AS9100, ISO, ITAR, and customer-specific requirements
• Support FAI, validation builds, and production readiness activities
• Lead resolution of nonconformances, corrective actions, and customer issues
• Maintain strong configuration control and documentation discipline

Planning, Cost & Resource Coordination

• Partner with Planning and Procurement to support demand, scheduling, and inventory levels
• Monitor resource needs including capacity, tooling, and supply chain inputs
• Support quoting activities and contract reviews as needed

Financial Management

• Track program budgets, costs, and margins; provide regular financial reporting to management
• Support quote and proposal development for new and follow-on work
• Identify opportunities for cost reduction and margin improvement

Team Support & Mentorship

• Serve as the primary escalation point for the Program Management team, providing timely support, issue resolution, and clear decision guidance to keep programs on track.
• Provide clear direction and support to keep programs aligned to schedule, quality, and customer expectations while maintaining overall execution and momentum.
• Share best practices and lessons learned across programs
• Assist in onboarding and development of less experienced team members

Continuous Improvement

• Identify opportunities to improve execution, communication, and efficiency
• Support Lean and continuous improvement initiatives
• Help standardize processes and tools across programs

Required Skills and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Manufacturing, or a related field; or equivalent work experience.
• 6-8 years of program or project management experience in a precision manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated experience managing programs of increasing complexity.
• Strong project management, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications.
• Proficiency with ERP systems (Epicor preferred) and Microsoft Office tools.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence others.
• Ability to manage multiple programs and priorities effectively.
• Working knowledge of CNC machining processes, materials, and manufacturing workflows.
• Familiarity with aerospace, defense, medical, or space industry requirements and quality standards (AS9100, ISO 13485, NADCAP)
• Negotiation skills.
• Ability to identify and evaluate complex, ambiguous business problems or technical issues and provide well thought-out solutions.
• Attention to data, detail, and thoroughness in completing work tasks.
• This position requires use of information or access to hardware which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). All employees must be U.S. persons within the meaning of ITAR. ITAR defines a U.S. person as a U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident, Political Asylee, or Refugee.

Additional Skills & Experience:

• Experience with ITAR-controlled programs
• Knowledge of FAR/DFARS contract requirements
• Exposure to Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement methodologies
• Experience working in contract manufacturing or job shop business environment.
• Experience working in the Aerospace, Medical or other highly regulated industry.
• AS9100 and NADCAP experience.

Compensation is determined based on a variety of factors related to the specific position. These may include skills, relevant experience, education, internal equity, business needs, and local market conditions. While the full range is shared for transparency, offers are rarely made at the minimum or maximum of the range.

Chandler offers a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees and their dependents. This includes medical, dental, and vision coverage; life insurance; short- and long-term disability; a 401(k) plan with company match; and a range of supplemental benefit options. In addition, eligible employees receive paid holidays and paid time off.