Technical Engineering Program Manager

Company Overview
NWD is an industry-leading designer of high-bandwidth, ultra-low latency rugged network hardware and IP cores, serving the Aerospace and Defense market for over 20 years. Our FPGA-based solutions power the future of our client’s most advanced mission processing, electronic warfare, sensor fusion, ISR, test & measurement, and maintenance applications. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, NWD solves the most challenging networking and sensor processing problems with products based on standard form factors including VPX and XMC, as well as emerging industry standards and custom solutions.

Job Summary
The Technical Engineering Program Manager (TEPM) is a critical role at New Wave Design, focused on the successful planning and execution of internal and customer-funded development programs involving hardware, firmware, and software technologies. This position is primarily program management-focused, with optional functional management responsibilities. The TEPM will ensure programs meet scope, schedule, and budget objectives while aligning with the company's strategic goals.

Responsibilities

Program Management

• Define program objectives, create detailed plans, and establish clear deliverables to achieve project and organizational goals.
• Lead cross-functional teams in executing complex engineering programs, ensuring alignment across hardware, firmware, and software disciplines.
• Manage program scope, schedules, budgets, and risks, utilizing earned value management techniques.
• Conduct regular program reviews to monitor progress, resolve issues, and ensure timely completion of deliverables.
• Identify, assess, and mitigate risks, ensuring contingency plans are in place.
• Serve as the primary customer interface, managing communications, expectations, and program status updates.

Functional Management

• Provide mentorship and guidance to engineering staff, fostering professional growth and development.
• Assist with resource planning, task prioritization, and staff allocation when functional oversight is required.
• Collaborate with engineering leadership to align team efforts with product roadmaps and organizational objectives.

Technical Leadership

• Apply technical knowledge to support program decisions, resolve challenges, and meet quality and performance standards.
• Participate in technical reviews and provide oversight for design validation processes.
• Ensure program deliverables meet reliability, safety, and performance criteria.

Business Development & Customer Engagement

• Contribute to proposal development for new business opportunities, including cost estimation and schedule creation.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with customers to ensure satisfaction and foster long-term collaboration.

Process Improvement & Strategic Alignment

• Identify opportunities for process enhancements and drive improvements in program management practices.
• Ensure alignment of programs with New Wave Design’s long-term goals, product roadmaps, and strategic plans.

Professional Representation

• Professionally represent the company in interactions with customers, partners, and stakeholders.

Qualifications:

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related technical field is required.
• 8+ years of development experience in hardware, firmware, or software preferred.
• 3+ years of program/project management experience, leading cross-functional engineering teams.
• Previous experience in functional management or mentoring staff is optional but advantageous.

Preferred Certifications & Skills

• PMP (Project Management Professional) certification is preferred.
• Proficiency in earned value management techniques for monitoring and controlling program performance.

Technical Skills

• Working knowledge of hardware, firmware, and software development processes.
• Ability to provide technical oversight and support during program execution.

Leadership Skills

• Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire cross-functional teams.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with customers and internal stakeholders.
• Strategic mindset with a focus on results and continuous improvement.

Soft Skills

• Excellent organizational and time-management abilities.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to address program challenges.
• Proactive and adaptable approach to managing dynamic environments.

Physical Parameters:

• Must be able to lift and carry 20 pounds.
• Must be able to lift 20 pounds over the head
• Must have finger and wrist dexterity with repetitive motion

Due to the type of work at our facilities and certain access restrictions, successful applicants must be a "U.S. Person". The candidate must be able to prove so, with remittance of proper identification supporting so, upon an acceptance of employment.

Pay: $135,900.00 - $169,600.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person