Reliability Program Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

OVERVIEW

We are seeking a Customer-Facing Technical Program Manager (TPM) to lead complex manufacturing programs in a high-mix, precision sheet metal fabrication environment. The TPM will serve as the primary technical liaison between our customers and internal operations, ensuring seamless execution from design through production and delivery. This role requires strong engineering fundamentals, excellent communication skills, and hands-on experience managing technical programs in a fast-paced manufacturing setting

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Act as the primary customer interface for assigned programs, managing communication, technical reviews, and project milestones
• Translate customer requirements and specifications into actionable engineering and manufacturing plans
• Lead cross-functional teams including engineering, estimating, production, and quality to ensure on-time, on-budget delivery
• Drive DFM (Design for Manufacturability) discussions and provide technical guidance to improve cost, quality, and manufacturability
• Manage project schedules, scope, and risk mitigation plans across multiple concurrent programs
• Support quotation and change management processes, coordinating technical input and cost impacts
• Oversee prototype through production ramp-up phases to ensure smooth handoffs and compliance with customer expectations
• Monitor performance metrics (delivery, quality, cost) and drive continuous improvement initiatives

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• 5+ years of experience in sheet metal fabrication, precision machining, or related manufacturing environment
• Proven track record managing customer programs or complex technical projects
• Strong knowledge of sheet metal design, fabrication processes, and finishing operations
• Proficiency in SolidWorks or similar CAD software preferred
• Excellent communication, presentation, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to travel up to 50%, including customer site visits and supplier reviews
• Background in contract manufacturing or OEM supplier environment
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and project management tools
• Experience supporting high-reliability or regulated industries (e.g., aerospace, medical, industrial)

EDUCATION

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial preferred)
• PMP certification or equivalent project management training a plus

LOCATION

• Remote

SCHEDULE

• M-F

TOTAL COMPENSATION INCLUDES

• Health/dental/vision coverage
• Employer-paid and supplemental life insurance
• Short- and long-term disability insurance
• Generous paid time off and holiday pay
• Monthly remote work stipend (for remote employees who qualify)
• 401(k) investment plan, with an employer match of up to 4%
• Education support program
• Safety eyeglasses/shoe reimbursement
• Referral bonuses
• Bonus plan for all full-time employees

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts. The employee is occasionally exposed to high places, fumes or airborne particles and toxic or caustic chemicals. The employee is frequently exposed to vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate and may require hearing protection in specific locations.

CADREX’S CORE VALUES

• Safety first, rising to the challenge, collaboration, accountability, and doing the right thing

ABOUT US

CADREX Manufacturing Solutions is a leading provider of complex sheet metal and machined production parts, assemblies, and weldments for a variety of end markets, including electrical transmission and distribution, warehouse automation, technology, aerospace & defense, medical, food, and industrials. With locations in Colorado, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Washington, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Michigan, Indiana, Massachusetts, Oklahoma, and Monterrey Mexico, CADREX offers numerous in-house manufacturing capabilities, including laser cutting, sheet metal fabrication, complex assembly, CNC punching, CNC machining, forming, robotic welding, stamping, fastener insertion, and tool and die manufacturing, to effectively serve customers with lights-out manufacturing capabilities for mid- to high-volume production. For more information, visit www.cadrex.com.

Cadrex provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.