Project Manager in Teutopolis, Illinois at Stevens Industries Inc

BASIC FUNCTIONS:

The Project Manager I independently manages a range of customer projects from order to shipment, taking ownership of project details and timelines while collaborating closely with both internal teams and dealer network. This role builds on foundational coordination experience and emphasizes direct customer communication, decision-making support, and efficiency in handling indirect orders. With increasing product knowledge and problem-solving confidence, the Project Manager plays a central role in ensuring a smooth customer experience and delivering high-quality project execution.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Customer & Order Management

• Manage Dealer Network customer orders, serving as the primary point of contact for assigned projects.
• Lead communication with customers regarding specifications, timelines, and follow-up.
• Validate order details and resolve order discrepancies proactively to maintain project momentum.
• Collaborate with Sales to review pricing and scope questions, obtaining necessary approvals for nonstandard requests.

Project Execution & Ownership

• Own day-to-day coordination of projects, ensuring timely movement through internal steps including Engineering, Manufacturing, and Logistics.
• Track project progress and update stakeholders to ensure transparency and alignment.
• Anticipate potential issues and collaborate with internal teams to address risks or delays.
• Assist field-related coordination, such as delivery timing, and site-specific details.

Decision Support & Problem Solving

• Participate in project-related decisions by providing relevant background, context, and recommendations.
• Coordinate with Engineering to evaluate and support customer-specific product requirements.
• Track and communicate financial performance— change orders, and billing status—throughout the project.
• Apply judgment and growing product knowledge to resolve routine problems and escalate complex issues when needed.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work proactively with cross-functional partners to ensure the project stays aligned with customer needs and internal capabilities.
• Participate in process improvement discussions to enhance team efficiency and customer outcomes.
• Maintain strong working relationships with Sales, Engineering, Manufacturing ,Logistics, and Rework Specialist.

Process & Documentation

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date project documentation within ERP and tracking systems.
• Support team metrics by ensuring project milestones and customer touchpoints are documented and reported.
• Identify and suggest improvements to team workflows and documentation practices.

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

1. 3+ years of experience in customer service, project coordination, or order management, preferably in a manufacturing or B2B environment.
2. Experience managing established customer relationships and working with cross-functional teams.
3. Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple timelines and shifting priorities.
4. Effective communication skills, including professional customer interaction and internal collaboration.
5. Confidence in making informed decisions within project scope and escalating when necessary.
6. Proficiency in Microsoft Office required; ERP system experience strongly preferred.
7. Demonstrated ability to work efficiently, adapt to change, and solve problems collaboratively.
8. Travel less than 10% maybe required.