The Project Lead is responsible for planning, coordinating, and driving customer projects from kickoff through closeout to ensure on-time delivery and full contract compliance. This role uses Cogitic’s ERP system to create and manage planning, material, and manufacturing work orders; partners with cross-functional teams; and helps remove roadblocks to keep projects on schedule. Success in this role is measured by accurate planning, proactive execution, strong communication, and the ability to drive projects to completion.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive projects to completion and remove roadblocks by risk management, proactive planning and communication, and setting and following up on tasks for team members.
• Establish project plans for Purchase Orders in Cogitic’s ERP system, including creating required planning, material, and manufacturing work orders.
• Create and execute project plans by building parts, work orders, and material requirements into ERP.
• Schedule and lead Project Contract Reviews to ensure understanding and compliance with customer-cited requirements and specifications.
• Estimate timelines and milestones and coordinate across departments to meet contracted delivery dates.
• Identify and coordinate department Points of Contact (POCs) required for project completion (e.g., Supply Chain, Engineering, QA, Manufacturing).
• Set and manage stakeholder check-ins/communications to support schedule execution.
• Coordinate with the Project Planner to integrate projects into Cogitic’s master project schedule and ensure milestone completion (materials identification/ordering, drawing/model development and approvals, etc.).
• Identify and communicate schedule/resource risks and significant impacts to internal stakeholders; provide timely updates to the Project Planner.
• Coordinate and support Project Kickoff meetings with relevant stakeholders.
• Coordinate development, approval, and submittal of certification packages with Contract Compliance Specialists.
• Review contract changes/modifications and determine whether a Contract Modification Review is required; engage appropriate POCs as needed.
• Track project budgets as required and incorporate project-level budget tracking into execution.
• Lead project reviews to evaluate progress, identify risks/roadblocks, and drive timely completion.
• Maintain accurate, complete documentation throughout the full project lifecycle.
• Ensure adherence to company safety policies, OSHA regulations, compliance requirements, and standards, including proper use of PPE.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Strong attention to detail, organization, and time management.
• Strong problem-solving and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities at once.
• Bachelor’s degree in Project Management, Business Management, or related field, or equivalent experience.
• 2+ years of project management experience, including developing and managing schedules.
• Experience with ERP systems, production planning, and quality processes; ProShop experience preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, specifications, and customer requirements.
• Experience in high-mix, low-volume manufacturing preferred.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing, project management tools, and related systems preferred.
• Experience with DoD regulations, standards, and compliance preferred.
• Eligible to hold a security clearance.

Why Cogitic
At Cogitic, you will be part of a mission-driven team solving complex problems in support of critical defense and industrial programs. We offer the opportunity to work cross-functionally, make a direct impact on project success, and contribute to meaningful work in a fast-paced, high-accountability environment. If you thrive on collaboration, ownership, and delivering results that matter, Cogitic is a place where you can grow and make a difference.