Program Manager

Sr. Program Manager – NPI (W2 ROLE)Fremont, CA- onsite (5days) 6 MonthsPreferred Industry Experience: Semiconductor equipment, automation systems, or complex capital equipmentAs part of our Atmospheric Solutions Program Excellence team, this position is responsible for leading initial production and customizable designs for a new semiconductor automation platform across multiple global customers. This role will drive end-to-end New Product Introduction (NPI), ensuring seamless transition from development through pilot builds and into global mass production.You will work with cross-functional teams to deliver complex technical programs while maintaining the highest standards of quality, execution, and customer satisfaction in a high-growth, fast-paced environment. This is Fremont -office based temporary assignment, 6-8 months to help assist the team with critical program deliverables. What You’ll Do Lead End-to-End NPI Programs: Own program execution from concept through design, validation, pilot builds, and release to manufacturingDrive New Product Development (NPD), product line extensions, and customer-specific customizationsDrive Global Manufacturing Readiness: Lead pilot builds and validation activities in the U.S. with transition to high-volume manufacturing in MalaysiaEnsure readiness across BOM completion, sourcing, test validation, and operational scalabilityEstablish Program Governance & Tools: Develop and manage NPI program plans using MS Project and Smartsheet-based program tracking toolsImplement and maintain Excel- and Smartsheet-based NPI checklists for:Design readinessBOM completeness and configuration controlValidation testing and qualificationManufacturing release and change controlLeverage dashboards, risk logs, and milestone tracking to ensure visibility and execution disciplineRisk & Change Management: Own program risk mitigation strategies and change control processesDrive structured decision-making with speed and clarity across stakeholdersCross-Functional Leadership: Lead and influence teams across Engineering, Product Management, Operations, Quality, Supply Chain, and ServiceAlign teams to common program objectives and timelines in a matrixed environmentStakeholder Communication: Provide regular executive-level updates on program health, risks, milestones, and financial performanceEnsure clear communication across global teams and investment stakeholder What You’ll Bring Education & CertificationsBS in Engineering or other technical discipline requiredPMP Certification preferred Program Management Expertise5+ years of program management experience supporting New Product Introduction (NPI) / New Product Development (NPD)Strong knowledge of phase-gate / Product Development & Introduction (PDI) processesTechnical Program ExperienceExperience managing technical release programs, including:Bill of Materials (BOM) structures and release processesDesign verification and validation (DV/PV) testingEngineering build cycles (proto, EVT/DVT/PVT, pilot)Release-to-manufacturing and change management Tools & SystemsAdvanced proficiency in:MS Project (resource loading, levelling, critical path)Smartsheet for program tracking and collaborationExcel-based program tracking and checklist developmentExperience with ERP/MRP systems and product lifecycle management tools is a plus Leadership & Execution: Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage multiple concurrent programsStrong ability to drive outcomes in high-growth, fast-paced environmentsExcellent executive communication and stakeholder management skills Preferred Industry Experience: Semiconductor equipment, automation systems, or complex capital equipment