Project Manager – Government Contracts

How to apply:

Complete an application on our website or person. You can also email your resume to

About us:

Nelson Manufacturing Company specializes in the design, manufacture, and sale of specialty semi-trailers for the crane, rigging, construction, heavy haul, over size, and aerospace markets. Nelson Manufacturing is located in Ottawa, Ohio with customers throughout North America, Australia, and Europe. For more information on Nelson Manufacturing Company and its products, visit

Shift A:
Monday – Friday| 6:30 am – 4:00 pm | The schedule showcases a 45-hour work week.

• Provide overall project leadership for government contracts, including project development, estimation, contract review, establishing budget parameters, developing and maintaining project schedules and budgets, coordinating project activities, manufacturing plans, quality plans, inspections and testing, and final project deliverables to the customer.
• Lead and discuss assigned programs, including labor, materials, subcontracted services, overhead, cost controls, progress billing, invoicing, and contract modifications with Accounting.
• Direct and coordinate design and engineering activities between the customer, Nelson engineering staff, third-party engineering firms, and manufacturing teams to ensure compliance with customer specifications, manufacturability, and project intent.
• Collaborate with Purchasing to identify and procure long-lead and critical project materials, including obtaining competitive quotes to control project cost.
• Ensure full compliance with applicable DOT, DoD, and federal regulatory requirements, including establishing internal audit processes, coordinating inspections and final acceptance testing with government representatives, and maintaining adherence to contractual quality standards.
• Develop, implement, and enforce standardized forms and compliance programs, including but not limited to Foreign Object Debris (FOD) prevention, Corrosion prevention plans, Mill certification, Material traceability, Inspection and test documentation, and Nonconformance reporting.
• Develop, manage, and submit all required SDRL documentation in accordance with contract requirements, and collaborate with engineering, purchasing, and suppliers to oversee creation and approval of technical manuals, owner/operator manuals, maintenance manuals, shop drawings, shop orders, and training materials.
• Prepare, communicate, and present project requirements, status, scope changes, schedule impacts, and updates to internal and external stakeholders.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives by developing and implementing best practices and establishing and utilizing frameworks and systems such as visual management, problem solving, standard work, and other lean manufacturing practices.

Note: This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the position. It is not an exhaustive list of responsibilities, skills, or qualifications associated with the role.

• Firm understanding of manufacturing process, including but not limited to fabrication, welding, machining, and final assembly.
• Minimum of five (5) years of project management experience in a manufacturing environment; bachelor’s degree preferred (equivalent experience may substitute for formal education).
• PMP certification or equivalent project management training preferred.
• Demonstrated experience managing federal government or DoD contracts.
• Experience with ISO 9001 and AS 9100 quality standards.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, tolerances, and symbols.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and attention-to-detail skills.
• Excellent Microsoft Office Suite, written communication, and verbal communication skills with the ability to lead cross-functional teams and interface with customers.

This position reports to the president of the company. The role involves working in a fast-paced environment in an office and production setting. Daily interaction is required amongst team members, shop personnel, and external stakeholders.

Mid-Level / Senior Level

What We Offer:

• Paid vacation
  -After 60 days!
• Paid Holidays
• Medical/Dental/Vision/Life/Disability Insurance Options
• Company paid:
  Employee Vision, Life Insurance, Long Term Disability Insurance, and AD/D Insurance
• FSA and HSA insurance options.
• 401K and Company Safe Harbor Contribution!
• We provide our employees with a safe, clean, and friendly work environment.