Project Manager

FORTNA is seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead the execution of large-scale warehouse automation and material handling system implementations. This role is responsible for delivering complex, greenfield distribution center projects that integrate mechanical systems, controls, software, and operational processes.

The Project Manager serves as the primary leader accountable for project scope, schedule, budget, quality, safety, and customer satisfaction from project kickoff through final acceptance. Successful candidates will have experience managing automation projects involving technologies such as conveyors, sortation systems, ASRS, robotics, Warehouse Control Systems (WCS), and Warehouse Execution Systems (WES).

This position requires strong customer-facing leadership and significant on-site presence during installation, startup, commissioning, and go-live activities.

• Lead the execution of complex warehouse automation and material handling projects valued up to $40M.
• Manage all phases of project delivery, including engineering, procurement, controls integration, software deployment, installation, commissioning, and customer acceptance.
• Serve as the primary customer-facing project leader throughout project execution.
• Drive project performance across scope, schedule, budget, quality, safety, and customer satisfaction objectives.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams including Engineering, Controls, Software, Procurement, Construction, Commissioning, and Operations.
• Develop and maintain detailed project schedules while managing critical path activities and key milestones.
• Identify project risks, develop mitigation plans, and proactively resolve issues impacting project performance.
• Lead project execution during installation and startup, ensuring successful integration of mechanical, controls, and software systems.
• Manage subcontractors, suppliers, and third-party partners to ensure quality and schedule commitments are achieved.
• Monitor project financial performance, including forecasting, cost control, change management, and budget adherence.
• Facilitate communication among internal teams, customers, contractors, and stakeholders.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to project team members while supporting continuous improvement initiatives.
• Make timely operational decisions to maintain project momentum and achieve business objectives.
• Travel to customer sites as required, with approximately 50% travel expected during active project phases.

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Business, Supply Chain, or a related discipline, or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years of project management experience delivering warehouse automation, material handling, industrial automation, systems integration, manufacturing, or industrial construction projects.
• Experience managing large, multi-disciplinary projects involving engineering, controls, software, installation, and commissioning teams.
• Demonstrated success managing project budgets, schedules, subcontractors, and customer relationships.
• Experience leading projects through installation, startup, commissioning, and customer acceptance phases.
• Strong leadership, communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience developing and maintaining detailed project schedules using Microsoft Project or similar tools.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment.
• Willingness to travel extensively and maintain an on-site presence during implementation activities.

• Experience leading greenfield distribution center or fulfillment center automation projects.
• Experience managing projects valued between $10M and $40M+.
• Knowledge of automated material handling technologies, including conveyors, sortation systems, ASRS, robotics, AMRs, shuttle systems, and related automation solutions.
• Experience with Warehouse Control Systems (WCS), Warehouse Execution Systems (WES), or other automation software platforms.
• Experience within a systems integration, warehouse automation, or material handling organization.
• PMP certification or equivalent project management credential.

The base salary range for this role is $ 87,600 to $ 131,300.  This base salary range represents the low and high end of the base salary range for this position. The actual base salary offered will vary based on various factors including but not limited to location, level, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and performance.

This job description describes the general nature and level of work expected of a person assigned to this position. All job requirements listed indicate the minimum level of knowledge, skills and/or ability deemed necessary to perform the job proficiently. Employees may be required to perform any other job-related duties as requested by their supervisor.

It is the policy of FORTNA and its affiliated companies to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, citizenship status (if authorized to work in the U.S.), or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, FORTNA will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.