Program Manager

Company DescriptionConnectDER (www.ConnectDER.com) represents the next generation in US-based resource technology product development. Our signature product, the ConnectDER Meter Socket Adapter, dramatically cuts down the cost and interconnection time for solar energy, EV charging, and home battery storage, putting clean, resilient power within reach of millions of homeowners. With a pipeline of exciting innovations, we’re only just getting started on our journey to transform how the world makes and consumes its energy.We are a dynamic, venture-backed company based in Philadelphia, PA, near Center City, with a team of over 50 dedicated professionals working in remote, hybrid, and on-site roles across the United States. As we continue to grow, we are committed to developing cutting-edge products that empower technology partners, installers, electricians, and their customers. We seek talented individuals who can deliver high-quality service and drive the value of clean energy resources forward.Our culture is collaborative, transparent, and team-oriented. We value open communication and people who bring thoughtful perspectives to the table. If you're looking for an opportunity to stretch your skills, get creative, and be a part of something new and meaningful, ConnectDER is the place for you!All full-time employees receive access to comprehensive benefits including:Health insurance plan - we cover 75% for employees, spouses, and children. Flexible paid time off – take the time off that you need.401K with company match – we want to help you meet your future financial goals.Equity stock options - your opportunity to share in the success of the company.How You’ll Make An ImpactWe’re looking for a Program Manager to help power how innovation happens at ConnectDER.In this role, you’ll lead the development and launch of new products while building the systems, tools, and processes that keep us operating at a best-in-class level. You’ll sit at the center of ideation, technology development, and portfolio strategy. You will connect ideas to execution and help the organization scale what works.This is a highly impactful role for a strategic, technically minded leader who can navigate complexity, drive change, and bring people together to turn vision into reality.Duties include: Program & Product LeadershipLead New Product Introduction (NPI) programs end-to-end, ensuring alignment to governance, timelines, cost targets, and best practicesDrive New Technology Introduction (NTI) efforts to evaluate and integrate emerging technologies into future productsPartner with Product Management to define requirements and ensure alignment with market needs, cost targets, and timelinesLead stage gate reviews and participate in design reviews with internal teams, suppliers, and customersProcess, Systems & Continuous ImprovementOwn and optimize the Arena PLM ecosystem, including process design, governance, and user trainingOversee sustaining engineering and change management, ensuring a closed-loop system for requests and implementationDrive continuous improvement by refining development processes, tools, and workflowsCapture lessons learned and lead post-mortems to strengthen future executionCross-Functional Execution & DeliveryCoordinate cross-functional development and validation activities, including prototyping, testing, and certificationCollaborate with Supply Chain to ensure timely procurement and management of prototype materialsSupport commercialization efforts during product launches in partnership with go-to-market teamsCommunication & Stakeholder ManagementCommunicate program status, risks, and tradeoffs clearly to stakeholders at all levelsProvide program management guidance to cross-functional teams to support broader organizational initiativesIdentify and resolve project risks, conflicts, and resource constraintsLeadership & External CollaborationLead and influence cross-functional teams within a matrixed organizationManage relationships with external vendors, consultants, and partnersReasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Location & Travel: This is a full-time hybrid position requiring 3 days on-site at our Philadelphia office and up to 10% travel. Compensation: $105,000 - $115,000 annually, plus bonus and equity. What success looks like in your first 6 - 12 monthsGet up to speed on our current systems and frameworksTake full ownership of Arena PLMLead and successfully execute key NPI programsBegin identifying and implementing process improvementsWho We’re Looking For Must-Haves5 - 7 years leading and managing ideation, technology and product development in a fast-paced engineering environmentHistory of successfully leading product development teams and activities from idea-to-launchProven leadership skills and the ability to associate with all levels in the organizationProven success in establishing key performance indicators, metrics, and focus to drive product development best practicesAdvanced negotiation, problem solving, and interpersonal skills (presentation, written and oral) with the ability to communicate effectively with all levels of staff and managementComfort in operating in both agile and waterfall project methodologies, for both software and hardware development projectsExperience using project management software (i.e. ClickUp, Microsoft Project, etc)Nice-to-Haves Advanced degree in a technical or business disciplineExperience delivering solutions in the solar, renewable, and/or distributed energy Resource (DER) industryLean, Six Sigma or other continuous improvement process experienceAdvanced knowledge of innovation tools (Roadmunk, ClickUp, PLM systems, PowerBI etc)You’ll thrive in this role if you are:Proactive and highly organized with strong follow-throughComfortable with rapid changeCurious and eager to learn, even outside your experienceEmotionally intelligent and able to tailor your message to your audienceWilling to take risks and bring solutionsIf you’re someone who sees ambiguity as an opportunity, not a blocker, you’ll do well here.Work Environment/Physical Demands: Must have the ability to work on a computer for extended periods of time with or without accommodation.At ConnectDER, we believe diverse perspectives make us stronger and more innovative. We welcome candidates of all backgrounds and experiences and encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet every listed qualification—great talent comes in many forms.ConnectDER is committed to developing a barrier-free recruitment process and work environment. If you require any accommodation during the application and interview process, please email us at careers @ connectder.com (no spaces) and we’ll work with you to meet your accessibility needs.Selected candidates must pass a criminal history background screening and a reference check. All your information will be kept confidential according to all applicable guidelines.