Process Engineering Program Manager

Job Title: Process Engineering Program Manager Location: San Jose, CA Employment Type: Full-Time ABOUT THE COMPANY We are a stealth-mode battery startup developing cutting-edge battery technology. Our mission is to revolutionize battery technology to accelerate the global transition to clean energy. By leveraging innovative materials, advanced manufacturing techniques, and next-generation energy storage architectures, we are building the future of sustainable energy. ABOUT THE ROLE We’re looking for a Process Engineering Program Manager to support the development, validation, and scale-up of our battery manufacturing processes. This role partners closely with the Process Engineering lead to drive structured execution across process DOE cycles, line bring-up efforts, and manufacturing readiness milestones. The emphasis is on execution rigor, cross-functional coordination, and predictable delivery during active build and validation programs. While initially focused on process development programs, this role is designed to grow into broader manufacturing program management over time. WHAT YOU'LL DO PROCESS DEVELOPMENT & VALIDATION EXECUTION - Develop and maintain integrated schedules supporting process development and scale-up milestones - Coordinate DOE cycles, validation plans, and readiness gates - Track cross-functional dependencies across R&D, Process Engineering, Manufacturing Operations, Quality, and Supply Chain - Maintain action tracking discipline and proactive risk escalation MATERIALS & MANUFACTURING - Drive readiness planning for pilot and production line bring-up - Coordinate build sequencing, materials readiness, and cross-team execution inputs - Support structured execution during active build windows - Identify and escalate bottlenecks impacting validation timelines CROSS-FUNCTIONAL COLLABORATION - Facilitate build readiness reviews and technical program reviews - Support structured vendor and external partner coordination as required - Ensure internal execution plans remain aligned with external commitments VALIDATION & TESTING - Strengthen documentation, accountability, and milestone clarity within process programs - Introduce lightweight systems to improve predictability without over-building process - Contribute to improving manufacturing program discipline as the organization scales QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE - 3+ years of program, project, or technical operations experience supporting engineering, manufacturing, or product development programs. - Experience coordinating complex cross-functional initiatives involving engineering, manufacturing operations, quality, and supply chain teams. - Demonstrated ownership of complex technical or manufacturing projects involving hardware systems, process development, or production equipment. - Experience developing and maintaining detailed project schedules and tracking program milestones using tools such as MS Project, Smartsheet, Asana, or similar platforms. - Strong organizational and communication skills with the ability to drive alignment and accountability across technical and operational stakeholders. - Bachelor’s degree in engineering, operations, business, or a related technical field; PMP certification or equivalent program management training is a plus. - Experience in advanced manufacturing environments (e.g., battery, automotive, semiconductor, or other high-precision manufacturing) is strongly preferred. WHY JOIN US? - Innovative Technology: Work on cutting-edge energy storage solutions that power the future. - Career Growth: Opportunities to work on high-impact projects and advance in a growing industry. - Competitive Benefits: Comprehensive health, wellness, and professional development programs. - Mission-Driven Culture: Be part of a team that is shaping the future of sustainable energy through innovation and excellence. COMPENSATION & BENEFITS Pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related kn