Vendor & Prototype Operations Manager

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Project Manager to oversee assignments across two critical functions: Vendor Management & Project Outsourcing and Work Management & Fulfillment. This role is central to prototype project coordination, vendor communications, production scheduling, and customer fulfillment.

The Project Manager will work under the guidance of Function Coordinators and Specialists, executing established procedures to manage external manufacturing partnerships, streamline project workflows, and ensure prototype deliverables meet customer specifications on time and with the highest quality standards. Success in this role requires precision, urgency in meeting prototype manufacturing timelines (CNC machining and 3D printing), and the ability to balance multiple concurrent projects with varying technical requirements.

Core Responsibilities

Vendor Management & Project Outsourcing

• Process purchase orders and monitor order status for outsourced prototype work and materials
• Receive and inspect vendor deliveries against technical specifications and quality standards
• Perform dimensional verification using measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges)
• Maintain vendor tracking systems and databases with delivery and quality data
• Coordinate shipping logistics for outsourced work, including material delivery and prototype returns
• Organize vendor documentation, contracts, and quality records
• Support vendor communications and follow-up as directed by Specialists
• Assist with vendor scorecards and performance data collection
• Communicate technical specifications clearly to vendors
• Report and escalate quality issues or delivery problems

Work Management & Fulfillment

• Collaborate closely with product managers to observe and support device manufacturing processes
• Manage prototype manufacturing workflows and external vendor coordination
• Oversee logistics and manage thousands of parts across multiple projects
• Ensure timely fulfillment of customer deliverables while maintaining quality standards

Required Qualifications

• 1–2 years of experience in manufacturing operations, prototype shops, supply chain coordination, or technical vendor management
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, GD&T callouts, and manufacturing specifications
• Proficiency with measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges) for quality inspection
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Clear written and verbal communication skills for vendor coordination and customer updates
• Proficiency with order management systems, spreadsheets, and Microsoft Office Suite
• Ability to work in a shop floor environment, including lifting packages up to 50 lbs

Desired Qualifications

• Experience in CNC machining, prototype manufacturing, or job shop environments
• Knowledge of machining processes (milling, turning, grinding) and manufacturing terminology
• Familiarity with 3D printing technologies (FDM, SLA, SLS) and post-processing techniques
• Experience with ERP or job tracking software in custom manufacturing settings
• Understanding of shipping considerations for precision parts (moisture control, anti-corrosion, packaging for delicate features)
• Background in rapid prototyping environments with tight timelines and shifting priorities

Key Requirements (Non-Negotiables)

• Strong multi-tasking and organizational skills
• Direct hardware-focused experience

Preferred Qualifications (Nice to Have)

• CAT experience
• Experience with design software
• Ability to physically inspect and measure parts

Pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act, Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, qualified applicants will be considered for assignment with arrest and conviction records. Criminal history may have a direct, adverse, and negative relationship with some of the material job duties of this position. These include the duties and responsibilities listed above, as well as the abilities to adhere to company policies, exercise sound judgment, effectively manage stress and work safely and respectfully with others, exhibit trustworthiness, meet client expectations, standards, and accompanying requirements, and safeguard business operations and company reputation.

Location: Onsite (Seattle, WA or Sunnyvale, CA)

Role type: Contract - 6 Month Position

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Application Question(s):

• Do you or will you in the future require any sponsorship to work in the US?

Language:

• English  (Required)