Robotics Program Manager Jobs in Waltham, MA (NOW HIRING)

An innovative robotics company is transforming industrial automation through advanced robotics, AI, and intelligent software systems. Backed by strong venture funding and experiencing rapid growth, the company is developing next-generation robotic platforms that solve complex real-world challenges across manufacturing, logistics, and automation.

This is an opportunity to join a fast-moving engineering organization where you'll work alongside world-class robotics, software, electrical, and mechanical engineers to bring cutting-edge products from concept through production. If you're passionate about building hardware products, leading cross-functional teams, and delivering complex technical programs, this role offers the chance to make a significant impact.

We're looking for an experienced Technical Program Manager to lead cross-functional engineering programs supporting the development of advanced robotic systems. This role requires someone who thrives in fast-paced startup environments and can successfully drive multiple complex initiatives involving hardware, embedded systems, software, AI, manufacturing, and product deployment.

You'll partner closely with engineering leadership, product management, operations, and executive stakeholders to ensure technical programs remain aligned, on schedule, and focused on delivering high-quality products. This is a highly visible role requiring exceptional organization, communication, and technical leadership.

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, or a related technical discipline.
• 7+ years of Technical Program Management, Engineering Program Management, or Technical Project Management experience.
• Experience leading complex cross-functional hardware and software development programs from concept through production.
• Previous experience within robotics, industrial automation, autonomous systems, manufacturing technology, or mechatronics.
• Strong understanding of modern software development methodologies including Agile, Scrum, and iterative hardware development.
• Experience coordinating multidisciplinary engineering teams including:
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Embedded Software
  • Robotics Software
  • Computer Vision / AI
  • Manufacturing
  • Quality
• Proven experience managing schedules, technical dependencies, program risks, and executive communications.
• Experience driving New Product Introduction (NPI) and engineering release processes.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to translate complex technical topics for executive leadership and external stakeholders.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to influence teams without direct management authority.

• Master's degree in Engineering, Robotics, or Business Administration.
• Experience working within venture-backed startup environments.
• Background supporting robotics products from prototype through commercial deployment.
• Familiarity with robotic systems including sensors, motion control, machine vision, embedded systems, and electromechanical assemblies.
• Experience with manufacturing readiness, supply chain coordination, and production scaling.
• PMP, Agile, or Scrum certifications.
• Experience managing external vendors and contract manufacturing partners.
• Familiarity with regulatory, safety, or quality standards for industrial equipment.
• Experience with Jira, Confluence, Smartsheet, Microsoft Project, or similar project management platforms.

• Lead complex engineering programs from concept through product launch and commercial deployment.
• Develop and maintain integrated program schedules across multiple engineering disciplines.
• Coordinate priorities across software, robotics, electrical, mechanical, manufacturing, and operations teams.
• Identify technical risks, resource constraints, and schedule impacts while driving mitigation strategies.
• Facilitate engineering planning sessions, design reviews, sprint planning, and executive program reviews.
• Partner with Product Management to align engineering execution with business priorities and product roadmaps.
• Drive accountability across teams while ensuring milestones are achieved.
• Track engineering metrics, deliverables, budgets, and key performance indicators.
• Coordinate prototype builds, validation testing, manufacturing readiness, and field deployments.
• Improve engineering execution through process improvements, documentation standards, and operational best practices.
• Provide regular updates to executive leadership, investors, and key stakeholders on program health and delivery timelines.

• 30% Robotics Hardware Development
• 25% Software & Embedded Systems Coordination
• 20% Manufacturing & Product Operations
• 15% Program Planning & Executive Reporting
• 10% Process Improvement & Cross-Functional Leadership

• 40% Cross-functional Program Management
• 25% Engineering Team Collaboration
• 20% Executive Communication & Strategic Planning
• 15% Risk Management, Documentation & Process Improvement

You'll join a rapidly growing robotics company building industry-defining automation technology with the backing of leading investors and an experienced leadership team. This role offers significant visibility across the organization, direct collaboration with executive leadership, and the opportunity to shape products from early development through commercial deployment.

Benefits include:

• Competitive base salary plus performance bonus and/or equity
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Generous PTO and company holidays
• Professional development and career growth opportunities
• Collaborative, engineering-first culture focused on innovation
• Opportunity to help build and scale next-generation robotic systems

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Sponsorship is not available for this position.