**We are Generac, a leading energy technology company committed to powering a smarter world.** Over the 60 plus years of Generac’s history, we’ve been dedicated to energy innovation. From creating the home standby generator market category, to our current evolution into an energy technology solutions company, we continue to push new boundaries. We are seeking a dynamic and experienced New Product Introduction (NPI) and Operations Program Manager to lead and manage the end-to-end process of introducing new products in a contract manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in coordinating cross-functional teams, including engineering, quality, production, and supply chain, to ensure seamless product launches, from pilot/engineering builds to mass production release or Ready to Ship (RTS). **Key Responsibilities:** + **New Product Introduction** : + Lead the NPI & manufacturing process readiness with our designated CM, working closely engineering and supply chain teams to ensure smooth product design/release and transitions into full-scale production. + Develop and manage product pilot builds timelines, ensuring on-time delivery of products to our internal (or external) customers such as Engineering, Reliability, etc. + Oversee product lifecycle from prototype to production, ensuring all milestones are met and quality standards are maintained. + Support supply chain management needs along with CMs “best in class” procedures. + **Contract Manufacturing Management** : + Manage relationships with contract manufacturers (CMs) to ensure that product designs are manufacturable, scalable, and cost-effective. + Monitor and ensure adherence to contractual agreements, including quality, timelines, and cost targets. + Support supply chain management with any contractual and/or inventory topics. + **Engineering/Quality and Production** : + Collaborate with engineering teams to resolve design-related issues and ensure product manufacturability. + Facilitate production readiness, including tooling, process validation, and pilot runs, to ensure smooth ramp-up to full-scale production. + Oversee NPI build schedules, capacity planning, and resource allocation to meet project deadlines. + **Supply Chain Management** : + Work with supply chain teams to ensure timely availability of materials, components, and finished goods for production. + Coordinate logistics, inventory management, and demand forecasting to ensure efficient supply chain operations. + Manage and mitigate supply chain risks, such as component shortages, production delays, or quality issues. + **Cross-functional Collaboration** : + Serve as the main point of contact between engineering, production, supply chain, and contract manufacturers, ensuring clear communication and alignment. + Drive continuous improvement initiatives to optimize manufacturing processes, reduce costs, and improve product quality. + **Reporting & Documentation** : + Provide regular updates to Core Team and management on project and build status progress & risks + Ensure all product development and manufacturing processes are documented in accordance with company standards. **Required Experience:** + Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred). + 5+ years of experience in new product introduction (NPI), preferably in a contract manufacturing environment. + Proven experience managing product development from concept through mass production, including working with cross-functional teams such as engineering, production, and supply chain. + Strong knowledge of contract manufacturing processes, including vendor selection, relationship management, and performance monitoring. + Experience with production processes, quality assurance, and continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma). + Strong understanding of supply chain management, including logistics, inventory management, and demand forecasting. + Solid project management skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines. + Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with internal and external stakeholders. **Preferred Skills:** + Experience with global contract manufacturers and managing international supply chains. + Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and project management software (e.g., MS Project, Asana). + Experience with Product Data Management software such as Arena (preferred), Agile, Windchill, etc. + Familiarity with compliance standards such as ISO, CE, UL, or similar industry certifications. + Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to handle complex and high-pressure situations. + Strong EXCEL knowledge (Pivot tables, summary tables, charts and handling VLOOKUP formulas) This job description includes the essential duties and qualifications for an NPI and Operations Program Manager, focusing on experience with contract manufacturing and managing the complete product lifecycle, from engineering through production and supply chain. **Physical Demands** : While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear; and use hands to manipulate objects or controls. The employee is regularly required to stand and walk. On occasion the incumbent may be required to stoop, bend or reach above the shoulders. The employee must occasionally lift up to 25 - 50 pounds. Specific conditions of this job are typical of frequent and continuous computer-based work requiring periods of sitting, close vision and ability to adjust focus. Occasional travel. _“We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.”_ Our success is directly tied to our employees’ professional growth and personal well-being, combined with strong families and communities. As an inclusive workplace, our employees embrace diversity, celebrate differences, and treat others with equality and respect. Over the 60 plus years of Generac’s history, we’ve been dedicated to energy innovation. From creating the home standby generator market category, to our current evolution into an energy technology solutions company, we continue to push new boundaries. As one of the leaders and largest suppliers of power generation equipment and technology, the work we do touches millions of lives. Employees at Generac are encouraged to be innovative and are valued as an integral part of our global team. Our challenging goals develop knowledgeable employees dedicated to helping continue Generac’s success. Generac provides individuals the opportunity to work in a fast-paced agile work environment where their work makes a difference in people’s lives and their own.