Principal Technical Program Manager, Hardware

Job Description

• This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Principal Technical Program Manager, Hardware based in the United States. This is a senior technical program leadership role responsible for driving a portfolio of complex hardware programs from strategy through mass production. You will operate across engineering, product, operations, manufacturing, and executive leadership in a highly collaborative and ambiguous environment. The role sits at the intersection of hardware, embedded systems, edge AI, computer vision, and on-vehicle technology. You will translate business objectives, field requirements, and technical constraints into clear roadmaps, requirements, and execution plans. A major focus will be establishing program excellence through rigorous milestones, phase gates, quality standards, and cross-functional alignment. You will also help shape next-generation products by leading early-stage R&D, technology evaluation, and proof-of-concept initiatives. This is an opportunity to influence both individual product programs and the systems and processes used to deliver hardware at scale
• Accountabilities: Lead the end-to-end execution of enterprise-level hardware engineering programs, connecting executive objectives with detailed technical roadmaps, schedules, dependencies, and delivery plans. Partner closely with perception and platform engineering teams to ensure hardware decisions account for the complete edge inference stack, including thermal constraints, compute requirements, sensor integration, and field serviceability. Drive early-stage R&D and technology incubation initiatives, including proof-of-concepts and evaluation of next-generation components, helping inform future product roadmaps. Establish and maintain phase-gate reviews, program milestones, readiness criteria, and governance processes across the hardware product lifecycle. Lead cross-functional New Product Introduction (NPI) programs through EVT, DVT, and PVT, supporting the transition from prototypes into mass production. Coordinate with contract manufacturers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders to manage delivery, quality, dependencies, and manufacturing readiness. Partner with engineering and growth teams to define hardware requirements based on field feedback, customer deployment conditions, regulatory requirements, and operational constraints. Identify program risks, resolve cross-functional blockers, and maintain alignment on scope, priorities, timelines, and quality expectations. Drive systemic improvements to program management practices and establish standards for execution excellence across the organization. Requirements: Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. degree in engineering or a related technical discipline. 12+ years of experience in Hardware Technical Program Management or Engineering Program Management. Proven experience leading at least five multidisciplinary hardware products from 0-to-1 development through production. Deep understanding of the hardware NPI lifecycle, including EVT, DVT, PVT, and mass production, as well as phase-gate governance and contract manufacturer/supplier management. Strong knowledge of hardware reliability, regulatory compliance such as FCC and CE, and supply-chain risk management. Solid technical foundation in embedded systems, hardware/software integration, computer vision systems, or closely related technologies. Experience working across multiple technical and business functions, with the ability to align senior leaders and engineering teams around complex programs. Strong analytical, organizational, communication, and stakeholder-management skills, particularly in ambiguous and rapidly evolving environments. Experience with on-vehicle, edge-deployed, or ruggedized hardware is preferred. Background in autonomous systems, robotics, or AI/ML hardware programs is preferred. Experience delivering technology for government or municipal customers is a plus. Familiarity with Design for Excellence (DFX) methodologies, including DFA, DFI, and DFS, is preferred. Benefits: Base salary range of $213,743–$277,866, depending primarily on location, qualifications, experience, and interview performance. Equity participation and a company-wide bonus plan. Medical, dental, and vision coverage options for employees and dependents in the United States. Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (DCFSA). 401(k) plan with a 3% company match. Unlimited paid time off. Daily catered lunches at the San Francisco office. Access to extensive learning and development opportunities alongside colleagues with expertise spanning AI, computer vision, government contracting, systems and device engineering, operations, communications, and other disciplines. A remote work environment with access to a San Francisco headquarters office. Commitment to an inclusive workplace where individuals are treated with respect and have opportunities to contribute and grow.
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