Technical Program Manager

DescriptionDarkhive does not provide visa sponsorship for this position. This role requires access to classified information or systems which mandates the eligibility to obtain and maintain a United States security clearance. Please note that United States citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.About Darkhive, LLCEstablished in 2021, Darkhive is redefining the future of autonomous systems. We design and build next-generation hardware and software solutions that seamlessly integrate into critical public safety and defense networks. Our core focus centers on developing tactical, human-machine interfaces and scaling the mass production of affordable, attritable uncrewed systems alongside our government partners.At Darkhive, we are a high-growth team of U.S. Special Operations veterans, aerospace engineers, robotics perception experts, and DevSecOps professionals. Above all, we are a mission-first culture. We believe that global teams operating on the front lines deserve high-quality, intelligent tools that ensure safety when each second counts.If you are a free-thinking problem solver looking to build cutting-edge robotics in a fast-paced, highly collaborative startup environment, apply with Darkhive today!In The Technical Program Manager Role, You WillPartner directly with the Program Manager to align technical execution with contract deliverables, milestones, and customer expectations; while the PM manages budget and outward-facing communications, you own the "how" and "when" of technical deliveryLead scheduling and resource planning for hardware integration, engineering, production, validation, and other major development milestonesTranslate the technical roadmap into execution plans, aligning engineering development, manufacturing readiness, supply chain, quality, and operations into a single plan and ensuring delivery stays aligned with both the roadmap and program milestonesTrack technical risks, dependencies, and blockers; drive mitigation plans and escalate proactively to company and program leadership before deliverable timelines are impactedCoordinate across cross-functional stakeholders (engineering, quality, supply chain, operations, and subcontractors) to keep execution synchronizedFacilitate technical decision-making and trade-off discussions, ensuring decisions are documented and traceable to program requirementsSupport proposal, technical volume, or task order planning efforts as needed, providing technical scoping and estimationWork cross-functionally to track resources and critical dependencies such as long-lead procurement, tooling, production capacity, qualification testing, and supplier readinessThis is a full-time exempt, non-supervisory role reporting to the VP, Technical Program Management. This role is Remote with travel up to 2 weeks per quarter.Required QualificationsBachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Business, or related technical field7+ years of technical program management, manufacturing program management, and/or systems integration experienceStrong understanding of hardware product development and manufacturing lifecycles with experience managing complex hardware development programs from concept through productionAerospace, robotics, defense, automotive, or autonomous systems experienceDemonstrated experience in multiple program management methodologiesExperience with managing/leading integration of software and hardware systems in a professional environmentStrong technical fluency to enable engaging credibly with engineers on architecture, technical risk, and trade-offs, even if not hands-on developing day-to-dayExperience managing timelines and dependencies across multiple workstreams or cross-functional teams, including subcontractorsExperience with program/project tooling (e.g., Jira, Confluence, Lucidchart, Monday.com, Asana) for tracking and visualizationStrong communication skills including experience with executive-level communication and ability to translate technical concepts clearlyBonus QualificationsPMP, SAFe, Agile, and/or Scrum certificationExperience with project management for government contractsExperience working in a startup environmentExperience running Agile ceremonies (sprint planning, standups, retros, release planning) for engineering teamsAn active security clearancePhysical And/or Mental RequirementsAbility to sit and/or stand for periods of timeAbility to use a keyboard, mouse, and other equipment with or without accommodationsAbility to maintain awareness during business hoursAbility to lift up to 15 poundsExcellent written and verbal communication and good command of the English languageLearns and memorizes routine tasksReasonable accommodations will be provided to any person with a disability to be able to perform the essential job functions of this positionDarkhive retains the right to change or assign other duties as required for this positionSelection ProcessHiring team reviews applications20-minute pre-screen with Darkhive recruiter30-minute phone screen with the hiring managerTake home projectIn-person or video interview with hiring teamBenefits Darkhive OffersComprehensive medical plans100% employer paid dental and vision insurance premiumsAutomatic 401k employer contribution with vestingPaid vacation and personal time off11 Paid holidays5 days of sick leaveStock optionsWelcoming and friendly work environmentRespect of work-life balanceDarkhive is an equal-opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment against any employee or applicant because of race, color, gender (including pregnancy), age, gender identity, creed, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.