Program Manager I (Team Lead)

Overview

The Program Manager, Level I is responsible for managing defined programs that comprise multiple related projects aligned with Edmund Optics’ strategic objectives. The Program Manager I focuses on maximizing organizational value and benefits through coordination, alignment, and integration across projects, stakeholders, and functions. The Program Manager I ensures that assigned programs deliver cumulative benefits that support EO’s business goals and technological growth. They will oversee project interdependencies, coordinate resources, manage benefit realization, and ensure alignment between execution and strategic direction.

Responsibilities

• Provide support to project managers as required.
• Acts as a customer point of contact for major programs related to assigned key customers.
• Interface with key customers and outside sales on prospective projects.
• Facilitate effective communication among cross-functional teams, executive stakeholders, and customers, ensuring transparency and strategic alignment.
• Interfaces with key customers for spec development, in conjunction with Engineering.
• Assess and develop/assist with critical project feasibilities, project plans and compliance matrices.
• Adapt program scope, structure, and priorities to respond to evolving organizational strategy, customer needs, and technological opportunities.
• Assist project managers in the development and management of risk and opportunity assessments and support the development of risk mitigation plans and opportunity capture plans.
• Lead project meetings and present project schedule and status to customers and management.
• Collaborate with Engineering to establish test requirements and resources.
• Comply with federal, state, and company policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Identify gaps on Program/Project management tools and establish plans of action that will eliminate those gaps.
• Strategic alignment of Project Manager tools that help manage complex customer projects and programs.
• Foster collaboration across global facilities, ensuring consistency and best practices across participating projects.
• Lead Monthly Management Review (MMR) with Project Managers and other stakeholders Stakeholder communication.
• Promote a culture of learning, continuous improvement, and proactive change management withing the program environment.
• Manage Project Analyst and a small team of Project Managers, as required.

Qualifications

To perform this position successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

Required Skills & Abilities:

• Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident (green card holder).
• Strong understanding of program management principles including benefit realization, portfolio alignment, and integrated risk management.
• Demonstrated ability to support preparation of contracts and agreements and lead proposals for complex engineering programs
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple, interrelated projects with diverse stakeholders and deliverables.
• Working knowledge of systems engineering and cross-functional collaboration within complex technical environments.
• Skilled in stakeholder engagement, communication, and negotiation at multiple organizational levels.
• Proven ability to adapt to shifting strategic objectives and dynamic program environments.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Project) and familiar with ERP, mechanical, optical, or systems design tools.
• Capable of analytical thinking and balancing efficiency (project perspective) with strategic value delivery (program perspective).
• Strong teamwork orientation with the ability to work collaboratively across global sites.
• U.S. Citizenship or permanent residence required

Education/Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, STEM field or related technical field; advanced degree preferred but not required.
• Minimum 12 years of program management experience including experience leading cross-functional technical teams.
• Previous management experience supervising technical staff or project/program managers preferred.
• Experience in optical engineering or related engineering fields is beneficial but not required.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to sit or stand for long periods of time; ability to travel; work in office setting.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Think you meet some of the requirements but not all? Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs for which they do not meet every qualification. If you see a role that interests you, we encourage you to apply, regardless of whether or not your experience is completely aligned with the job description. Edmund Optics is committed to becoming the most diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace within the Optics and Photonics Industry and beyond. You may be a great candidate for this role or others within Edmund Optics.

Compensation Range Transparency:

At Edmund Optics, we are committed to transparency and equity in our hiring practices. The posted salary range for this role reflects the expected base pay. The actual offer will be based on multiple factors, including but not limited to relevant skills, education, work experience, business needs, and geographic location.

Salary Range: $140,000 - $155,000 per year

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Life, AD&D, Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Tuition Reimbursement
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match up to 3%
• Daycare and Gym Reimbursement
• Paid Parental Leave and New Mother Benefits
• Training and Development Opportunities

Availability of these benefits may depend on the country and employment type.