Technical Program Manager
Overview
A growing engineering organization specializing in advanced optical systems, instrumentation, and product development is seeking a Technical Program Manager to lead complex hardware development programs from concept through commercialization. This role combines technical leadership with program management responsibilities and is ideal for someone who enjoys working across multidisciplinary engineering teams while remaining hands-on with product development efforts.
The successful candidate will oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of innovative products serving industries such as aerospace, defense, medical devices, industrial automation, and consumer technology.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead technical development programs from concept, design, and prototyping through testing, validation, and production.
- Manage project schedules, budgets, resources, risks, and deliverables to ensure successful program execution.
- Coordinate cross-functional teams across optics, mechanical engineering, electronics, software, and manufacturing disciplines.
- Track program milestones and ensure projects remain on schedule and within budget.
- Serve as both a program leader and technical contributor, supporting engineering decisions and product development activities.
- Interface with customers and stakeholders to communicate project status, requirements, and technical solutions.
- Utilize project management tools such as MS Project, Jira, ClickUp, or similar platforms to manage development efforts.
- Support hardware builds, product testing, and engineering validation activities as needed.
Qualifications
Required
- Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
- 7+ years of experience leading technical development programs in industries such as optics, aerospace, medical devices, instrumentation, or advanced manufacturing.
- OR -
- 3+ years of experience leading optical engineering, instrumentation, hardware development, or complex product development programs.
- Proven experience managing hardware development projects from design through production.
- Strong understanding of engineering development processes and multidisciplinary product design.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
- Comfortable working in a hands-on engineering environment.
Preferred
- Advanced degree in Engineering or a related field.
- Project Management certification (PMP or equivalent).
- Experience with medical device or aerospace product development.
- Familiarity with engineering software such as CAD, optical modeling/ray tracing tools, PCB design platforms, or related technical applications.
- Background in optics, opto-mechanical systems, electro-optics, mechanical systems, or instrumentation.
Why Join?
- Lead innovative hardware and optical system development programs.
- Work closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams on technically challenging projects.
- Contribute to products used across aerospace, defense, medical, industrial, and consumer markets.
- Take ownership of programs throughout the full product lifecycle, from concept through launch.
- Join a collaborative environment that encourages technical growth and innovation.
Additional Information
- This is an onsite position based in Wakefield, Massachusetts.
- Travel requirements are minimal, with occasional customer-facing meetings as needed.
- Competitive compensation and benefits package offered.
FAQs
Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your resume and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organizations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.
Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.
We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business.
That's why we recommend registering your resume so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created.
Yes, we help with CV and interview preparation. From customized support on how to optimize your CV to interview preparation and compensation negotiations, we advocate for you throughout your next career move.