Technical Program Manager

Job Title:

Technical Program Manager Job Description This role leads the end-to-end delivery of manufacturing test systems that validate the optical inter-satellite link subsystems for a large-scale Low Earth Orbit satellite constellation. You will own complex, cross-functional technical programs spanning test systems hardware and software development, electrical and optical engineering, and large-scale manufacturing. By building robust, scalable acceptance test capabilities, you help ensure reliable, low-latency, high-speed broadband connectivity for unserved and underserved communities around the world. Responsibilities Lead the full project life cycle for manufacturing test systems used to perform acceptance testing of optical inter-satellite link systems, from concept and requirements through deployment and continuous improvement. Use a variety of project management tools and methodologies to manage project scope, schedule, budget, resources, cross-dependencies, quality, risk, and performance metrics. Create detailed test system project plans and milestones that align with broader technical roadmaps, coordinating closely with both internal and external customers. Collaborate with satellite system subject matter experts to define test requirements, develop comprehensive test plans, and architect test system solutions for optical inter-satellite link hardware and software. Lead cross-functional teams of software and hardware development engineers, driving agile sprints to design, implement, and upgrade manufacturing test stations. Coordinate software, firmware, FPGA, and hardware development efforts to ensure integrated, production-ready test solutions that meet reliability and performance targets. Oversee reliability and qualification test efforts, including reliability testing, HALT, and related product testing activities, to validate design robustness and manufacturing readiness. Drive root cause analysis and issue resolution for test system and product failures, ensuring timely corrective actions and preventive measures. Identify and implement common mechanisms, standardized processes, and tools that improve efficiency, scalability, and consistency across multiple test systems and programs. Streamline inter-departmental communication by establishing clear interfaces, documentation standards, and regular coordination mechanisms between engineering, manufacturing, and operations teams. Build and track meaningful program metrics and key performance indicators, using data to drive decisions and communicate progress, risks, and trade-offs. Manage programs across multiple cross-functional teams, building processes and coordinating release schedules to support high-volume manufacturing and product launches. Engage with contract manufacturing partners at scale, aligning on test strategies, station deployment, qualification, and ongoing support in production environments. Provide clear, concise, and regular written and verbal status updates to stakeholders, highlighting accomplishments, risks, mitigation plans, and upcoming milestones. Champion continuous improvement across test system design, development workflows, and program management practices to increase reliability, throughput, and cost-effectiveness. Essential Skills Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Physics, or equivalent experience. At least 5 years of technical project or program management experience. At least 5 years of software and/or hardware development experience. Proven experience managing programs across cross-functional teams, including building processes and coordinating complex release schedules. Hands-on experience with test systems for hardware and/or software in a manufacturing or product acceptance context. Strong experience in reliability testing and product testing, including methods such as HALT and related qualification approaches. Demonstrated ability to manage scope, schedule, budget, resources, and risks using modern project management tools. Experience collaborating closely with engineering teams to define requirements, create test plans, and deliver technical solutions. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present status, risks, and trade-offs clearly to technical and non-technical stakeholders. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including experience leading root cause analysis and implementing corrective actions. Additional Skills & Qualifications 3 or more years of software or optical systems development experience, ideally involving complex or high-reliability systems. 5 or more years of technical program management experience working directly with engineering teams. Experience in embedded software, firmware, or FPGA logic development, particularly in test, control, or instrumentation applications. Experience working with contract manufacturing partners at scale, including deployment and support of manufacturing test stations. Master's degree or other advanced technical degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, or a related field. Experience in electrical or optical engineering, especially related to communication systems or inter-satellite links. Familiarity with HAAS (hardware-as-a-service) concepts or similar models for deploying and maintaining test infrastructure. Experience defining and tracking program metrics and KPIs to drive data-informed decisions. Proven ability to identify and implement process improvements and common mechanisms across multiple teams and projects. Comfort working in fast-paced, highly technical environments with evolving requirements and aggressive schedules. Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Redmond, WA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $65.00 - $70.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Redmond,WA.

Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on May 15, 2026. About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.