Technical Program Manager

Avicena is a privately held company developing microLED based ultra-low power high bandwidth interconnects for chip-to-chip communications.  This technology will revolutionize High-Performance (HPC) and Cloud computing, as well as other industries where low power interconnects are critical like camera sensors, autonomous vehicles, and aerospace. Avicena is headquartered in Sunnyvale, California with a development center in Edinburgh, Scotland. The company was founded in 2019 by leading technologists from the optical networking industry with a track record of delivering breakthrough products.  (www.avicena.tech) About The RoleThis role is primarily program and project management focused and resides in the engineering department. You will evolve in a very multidisciplinary technical environment, spanning from ASIC design, Semiconductor Packaging, Epitaxy Growth, MicroLED Fab Operations, Testing, Reliability, MicroLEDs, Micro-optics, Photodetectors, System and Software. You will partner closely with leadership to coordinate complex cross-functional engineering efforts, enforce accountability, introduce scalable program management frameworks, and implement strong quality methodologies to enable success of the programs.ResponsibilitiesProgram Management Framework DevelopmentBuild and implement a scalable program management framework.Define and manage goals, milestones, KPIs, and program dashboards in Confluence and JiraDevelop and maintain integrated schedules and resource allocation plans (e.g. with Microsoft Project).Prepare and lead milestone reviews and phase gate reviews.Create concise, high-impact executive summaries and visual reporting for management.Technical Workstream CoordinationManage day-to-day coordination of multidisciplinary technical teams.Track and follow up on action items, enforce accountability, and remove blockers.Facilitate decision-making and push for timely resolutions.Prioritize activities based on urgency and business impact.Implement time tracking and structured reporting using Confluence and Jira.Quality and Process ExcellenceIntroduce and standardize quality control methodologies across programs.Lead risk assessments using structured methodologiesDrive root cause analysis initiatives and workstreamsDevelop internal technical specifications and datasheet frameworks with technology owners.Establish systems to track specifications consistently and generate management dashboards.Promote best practices in experimental design (DOE), statistical methods, and process standardization.Required Experience And QualificationsProven experience leading complex technical programs in a hardware-centric environment. Experience with complex technical systems; optoelectronics experience strongly preferred.Demonstrated success releasing products at scale. Experience working in cross-functional, multidisciplinary engineering teams.Strong knowledge of phase gate methodologies and business creation processes.Experience with PLM systems and structured product development cycles.Master Agile frameworks adapted to hardware development.Proficient with program management tools such as Confluence, Jira, Smartsheet, Monday.com, and Microsoft Project.Hands-on experience with quality methodologies in processing and testing (GRR, SPC, Six Sigma), and root cause analysis (DMAIC, 8D).Familiarity with design methodologies such as FMEA, DRBFM, statistical design, and DOE.Experience with managing external partners.Experience with data analysis using JMP, Python or other similar software.Familiarity with database structure such as SQL.What We Are Looking ForA highly organized driver who thrives in fast-paced startup environments.Strong communicator capable of synthesizing complex technical information into clear executive-level summaries.A structured thinker who brings discipline, accountability, and clarity to growing engineering teams.A leader who elevates execution standards across the organization.If you are passionate about building structure in high-innovation environments and enabling world-class engineering teams to deliver breakthrough optoelectronic products, we would love to hear from you.