Associate Project Manager (cookware development)

*this role is based in our Austin, TX HQ

Made In is the leader in the digitally native kitchen space. We bring chef expertise and centuries-old cookware manufacturing techniques together to craft professional-quality tools for the home and professional cook. We’re backed by some of the world’s best chefs and have been featured in The TODAY Show, The New York Times, Fast Company, Business Insider, and more.

As an Associate Project Manager (cookware development) you will support the development and launch of new cookware products from concept through production. This role helps translate product briefs and design concepts into manufacturable products that meet high standards for performance, durability, safety, and brand quality.

Working closely with the Product Development Lead and cross-functional partners across Product, Culinary, Operations, Marketing, and Creative, you will help manage timelines, coordinate project execution, and keep product initiatives on time and on track. This role is ideal for someone who approaches work with precision, manages moving pieces effectively, and is excited to learn how great products are built in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.

Responsibilities

Product Development & Execution

• Support day-to-day execution of cookware product development projects, ensuring milestones and deliverables stay on track across design, sourcing, and production.
• Manage timelines, track dependencies, and communicate project progress to internal stakeholders.
• Maintain detailed project documentation and help identify and resolve blockers throughout the development process.
  

Product Development Support

• Partner with the Product Development Lead to support products from concept → prototype → production.
• Help define product requirements, performance standards, and key product features.
• Assist in translating product briefs into manufacturable specifications and construction options.
  

Sample & Prototype Coordination

• Manage prototype rounds and sample tracking across suppliers and internal teams.
• Document detailed feedback from internal testing and share actionable notes with suppliers.
• Assist in evaluating samples and testing outputs to ensure quality and alignment with brand standards.
  

Supplier Collaboration

• Support communication with global suppliers and manufacturing partners.
  Help coordinate Design for Manufacturing (DFM) reviews to ensure product feasibility.
• Assist with tracking specifications, revisions and testing expectations.
• Request and organize supplier cost breakdowns and production updates.
  

Go-to-Market Support

• Partner with Creative, E-Commerce, and Marketing teams to support product launch readiness.
• Assist with packaging development, including claims, product features, and storytelling.
• Help track cross-functional deliverables and timelines leading up to launch.
  

Cross-Functional Coordination

• Work closely with Product Development, Packaging, Culinary, and Operations teams to support successful product launches.
• Collaborate with Marketing and Sales to ensure product information and assets are ready for go-to-market. 
• Coordinate with the Test Kitchen team on product testing programs and sample feedback.
  

Product & Vendor Support

• Assist with vendor communications, sample logistics, and packaging deliverables throughout development.
• Maintain product specifications, packaging updates, and documentation as products evolve.
• Help ensure product data and materials remain accurate across internal systems.
  

Reporting & Alignment

• Support product team reporting by tracking project timelines, milestones, and deliverables.
• Help maintain alignment across teams on product specifications, packaging, and launch readiness.

Qualifications

• 2-4 years of project management experience within product development, manufacturing, or consumer goods (CPG, home goods, or cookware preferred).
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to see how small pieces fit into a bigger brand and operational strategy.
• Collaborative and proactive working style; comfortable partnering across multiple departments and external vendors.
• Proficiency with project management tools (e.g., Asana, Airtable, Smartsheet) and Microsoft Office/Google Workspace.
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes preferred.
• Ability to work full-time in our Austin, TX headquarters (South Austin/St. Elmo area)

Who You Are

• A steady operator who thrives in dynamic, changing environments.
• Calm under pressure, with a knack for keeping people and projects on track.
• A team player who values communication, follow-through, and accountability.
• Passionate about great products, attention to detail, and the art of execution.

Benefits We Offer:

• Competitive salary, stock options, 401k, healthcare benefits (including fertility and family-building care, mental health therapy, teladoc virtual health access along with HSA and FSA plans) and free and discounted cookware
• A people-centric workplace with flexible time off
• A vibrant, lively office space in the heart of South Austin which includes our onsite studio kitchen

Made In is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship. Made In makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.