Sr. NPI Program Manager

Key Responsibilities

• Lead New Product Introduction (NPI) programs for x86 hardware platforms from development through production.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Hardware, Electrical, Mechanical, Software, Quality, Compliance, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Test Engineering, and Product Management.
• Develop and manage hardware development schedules aligned with software delivery timelines.
• Drive hardware validation, manufacturing test readiness, and release management activities.
• Define and enforce phase-gate criteria throughout the product development lifecycle.
• Ensure readiness for new SKUs and FRUs by coordinating with Planning, Supply Chain, Logistics, and Repair Engineering teams.
• Drive Design for Manufacturing (DFM), Design for Assembly (DFA), and Design for Test (DFT) initiatives with global contract manufacturers.
• Manage PCB/PCBA manufacturing processes and support product characterization activities.
• Identify and mitigate program risks through proactive planning, issue tracking, and cross-functional reviews.
• Lead Engineering Change Orders (ECOs), corrective actions, and change management.
• Establish component traceability and multi-level BOM management.
• Drive cost reduction initiatives through should-cost analysis, supplier optimization, and multi-sourcing strategies.
• Support Post Ramp Qualification (PRQ) activities including tooling and optical transceiver qualifications.
• Mentor team members and continuously improve hardware product lifecycle processes.

Required Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in hardware product development, manufacturing, or NPI program management.
• Proven experience managing cross-functional NPI programs for x86 hardware platforms.
• Strong understanding of Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA).
• Hands-on experience with:
  • Hardware Validation
  • Product Characterization
  • Design for Manufacturing (DFM)
  • Design for Assembly (DFA)
  • Design for Test (DFT)
• Experience with global contract manufacturers (CM/ODM/OEM).
• Strong project management skills with expertise in schedule planning and risk management.
• Experience managing manufacturing processes, supplier relationships, and material planning.
• Knowledge of Engineering Change Orders (ECO), BOM management, and product lifecycle management.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple complex projects in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with Valor, Arena PLM, Jira, and CAD tools.
• Knowledge of hardware manufacturing processes and product release management.
• Experience with supplier negotiations and commercial discussions.