TUTCO, LLC, a leading manufacturer of heat strips and heating elements, used in the HVAC and Appliance industry is seeking a highly motivated and detail-orientated Project Manager to join their team in Mankato, MN. We are seeking a Project Manager to lead the plant startup from the ground up and transition into the Plant Manager role at initiation. The Project Manager is responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing manufacturing projects from initiation through completion.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Lead full plant startup: facility readiness, equipment installation, and production launch
• Develop and execute project plans covering capital, timeline, and operational readiness
• Drive implementation of automated manufacturing systems and optimized production flow
• Build and lead a high-performing team during startup and ramp-up
• Establish scalable processed, KPIs, and standard work to support growth
• Partner with cross-functional teams (engineering, operations, supply chain, quality) to hit launch milestones
• Monitor project progress and proactively address delays, risks, or production issues

• Track project cost and assist with budget management
• Lead startup ramp and problem-solving efforts to achieve stable, efficient production

QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS:

• 7+ years in manufacturing and operations leadership
• Strong background in automated or advanced manufacturing environment
• Ability to lead teams, drive execution, and build processes from the group up
• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work with cross-functional teams
• Proven experience leading major projects with strong project management and problem-solving skills, demonstrating success by applying Lean Six Sigma
• DMAIC/DMADV is preferred  

EDUCATION

• Bachelor’s degree in business, operations, project management, engineering or related field

GROWTH PATH

• Transition into plant manager with full ownership of P&L, operations, team, and performance

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Medical, Dental & Vision  insurance
• Employee assistance program (EAP)
• Flexible spending account (FSA)
• Health savings account (HSA)
• Paid time off
• Parental Leave
• Tuition Reimbursement

We believe that different perspectives and backgrounds are what make a company flourish. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment regardless of color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, economic status, disability, age, or any other legally protected characteristics. We are proud to be an inclusive company with values grounded in equality and ethics, where we celebrate, support, and embrace diversity.

At no time during the hiring process will Smiths Group, nor any of our recruitment partners ever request payment to enable participation – including, but not limited to, interviews or testing. Avoid fraudulent requests by applying jobs directly through our career’s website (Careers - Smiths Group plc)