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Engineer Program Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sensing Engineering Program Manager

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$159K/yr

As an Engineering Program Manager, you will drive the full lifecycle of sensing systems and features-from concept to specification, characterization to integration, and validation at both module and ...

We seek talented, passionate, and committed engineers, technologists, and business leaders to join us. Job Summary: We currently seek a dynamic Program Manager to provide leadership, oversight to ...

Program Manager

San Jose, CA · On-site

$85K - $123K/yr

We seek talented, passionate, and committed engineers, technologists, and business leaders to join us. Job Summary: We currently seek a dynamic Program Manager to provide leadership, oversight to ...

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Engineer Program Manager information

See California salary details

$82.9K

$124.9K

$129.3K

How much do engineer program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for engineer program manager in California is $124,941.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,300.00 and $127,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Engineer Program Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Engineer Program Manager, you need a solid engineering background, project management expertise, and typically a degree in engineering or a related field, often with PMP or similar certification. Familiarity with project management software like Microsoft Project, JIRA, or Asana, and technical documentation tools is essential. Outstanding leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help drive cross-functional teams and manage stakeholder expectations. These abilities are crucial for delivering complex engineering projects on time, within budget, and to quality standards.

How does an Engineer Program Manager typically collaborate with engineering and cross-functional teams during a project?

As an Engineer Program Manager, you will act as a bridge between engineering teams and other departments such as product management, quality assurance, and operations. You’ll facilitate clear communication, set project expectations, and help resolve roadblocks to keep projects on track. Regular meetings, progress updates, and documentation are common practices to ensure alignment and accountability. Your ability to balance technical understanding with project management skills is crucial in driving successful outcomes.

What is an Engineer Program Manager?

An Engineer Program Manager (EPM) is a professional who oversees and coordinates engineering projects from conception through completion. They work closely with engineering teams, stakeholders, and other departments to ensure that technical projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet quality standards. EPMs manage schedules, resolve issues, and facilitate communication between different teams to keep projects on track. Their role often blends technical expertise with project management skills, making them essential for successful engineering initiatives.

What is the difference between Engineer Program Manager vs Software Engineer?

AspectEngineer Program ManagerSoftware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Project Management certifications (e.g., PMP)Bachelor's in Computer Science or related field, coding skills
Work EnvironmentCross-functional teams, project planning, stakeholder communicationDesign, develop, test software applications
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, hardware firms, product developmentSoftware companies, tech startups, IT departments

The main difference is that Engineer Program Managers focus on overseeing projects, coordinating teams, and ensuring timely delivery, while Software Engineers primarily develop and implement software solutions. Both roles often collaborate closely but serve distinct functions within tech organizations.

What cities in California are hiring for Engineer Program Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Engineer Program Manager job openings:

Engineering Program Manager, Customer Programs & NPI

ImageTek Mfg., Inc.

San Jose, CA • On-site

$103K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description


The Engineering Program Manager will serve as a key coordination point between US-based customers, customer engineering and supplier teams in Asia, and internal teams across engineering, R&D, quality, manufacturing, and supply chain.

This role will drive customer-facing program execution by translating requirements, timelines, open issues, and readiness expectations into clear internal action plans, while ensuring timely follow-up, accurate status reporting, and effective communication across the US, China, Vietnam, and Korea. The ideal candidate has experience supporting NPI, industrialization, validation, manufacturing readiness, and production ramp for automotive, energy storage, robotics, or consumer electronics manufacturing programs involving precision components, assemblies, plastics, metals, or related engineered materials.

Mandarin speaking ability is strongly preferred and may be critical for success, as the role requires frequent coordination with China-based engineering, manufacturing, and suppliers to clarify requirements, resolve issues, track actions, manage risks, and keep customer and internal stakeholders aligned from early development through launch.

Responsibilities:

  • Lead and coordinate cross-functional engineering teams to deliver customer-focused programs on time and within budget.
  • Develop detailed program plans, including scope, schedule, resource allocation, and risk management strategies.
  • Serve as the primary liaison between customers, engineering teams, and other stakeholders to ensure clear communication and alignment.
  • Monitor program progress, identify potential issues early, and implement corrective actions to mitigate risks.
  • Facilitate regular status meetings, prepare comprehensive reports, and present program updates to senior leadership and customers.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance program management processes and customer satisfaction.
  • Manage changes in program scope, schedule, and resources while maintaining alignment with customer expectations.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
  • 5+ years of experience in program or project management within an engineering environment.
  • Proven track record of managing complex, cross-functional engineering programs with successful delivery.
  • Strong understanding of engineering principles and product development lifecycle.
  • Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master’s degree in Engineering Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
  • Project Management Professional (PMP) or equivalent certification.
  • Experience working directly with customers in a technical program management capacity.
  • Familiarity with Agile methodologies and tools such as Jira or Microsoft Project.
  • Experience in the technology or manufacturing industries.