Technical Program Manager (Fixed)

Role Overview

Technical Program Manager (Fixed) at Dandy (Full remote). In this highly visible role, you will lead the design and implementation of factory automation and mechanized equipment, partnering with factory teams to deliver automation and continuous improvement objectives.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of automation and mechanized equipment in factories
• Collaborate with factory teams to draft requirements, develop concepts, and define automated manufacturing processes
• Work with vendors to construct machines aligned with specifications and standards
• Integrate newly built machines into the factory and drive acceptance
• Design and execute acceptance testing (including FAT/SAT)
• Conduct/oversee equipment validation activities (e.g., IQ/OQ/PQ where applicable)
• Track and report manufacturing metrics and provide routine executive status updates
• Supervise technical execution related to automation programs and ongoing improvements
• Manage high-budget projects, including vendor spend tracking and external contracting workflows

Requirements

• 10+ years in advanced manufacturing and high-speed custom automation (Automation Engineering, Process Engineering, and Technical Program Management)
• Strong understanding of equipment validation and acceptance testing (FAT/SAT)
• Experience using/working with validation and performance concepts such as OEE, GRR, line balancing, and process flow optimization
• Proven technical problem-solving and root-cause analysis in high-pressure environments
• Leadership and strong stakeholder management skills (communication, collaboration, influencing, negotiation)
• BS/MS in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical field
• Ability to translate and communicate technical updates into executive-level presentations
• Experience with technical writing of machine user requirement specifications
• Ability to travel internationally up to 30%

Nice to Haves

• Experience with ceramics, CNC machining, spray applications, inkjet printing, and/or plastics
• Experience with 3D printing, thermoforming, injection molding
• Experience in FDA regulated manufacturing environments (e.g., ISO 13485, change control, IQ/OQ/PQ)
• Experience with Value Engineering, NRE, and RFQ to PO processes
• Experience with CapEx contract engagement and negotiation
• High-growth startup scaling experience

Key Missions

• Drive technical, operational, and deployment initiatives for automation and mechanized equipment in factories