Head of Hardware Program Management – Optics & Aerospace

DSJ Global; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 170,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

DSJ Global is seeking a Head of Program Management to lead a portfolio of hardware development programs across optical, electro-optical, imaging, and precision instrumentation technologies. You will oversee cross-functional teams and drive execution from concept through production, partnering with engineering, operations, and executive leadership.

The ideal candidate has a strong technical background, 10+ years in complex hardware programs, and a track record in regulated industries such as

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related technical field required.
• 10+ years leading complex engineering or hardware development programs.
• 5+ years managing program managers, project managers, or technical teams.
• Proven experience delivering hardware products in defense, aerospace, medical device, or regulated industries.
• Strong technical background in optics, photonics, electro-optics, instrumentation, or electromechanical systems.
• Experience with customer-funded programs, budgets, schedules, and deliverables; PMP is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the Program Management function across multiple customer-facing and internal programs.
• Drive program planning, budgeting, risk management, and milestone execution.
• Partner with engineering, manufacturing, quality, and business development to deliver complex hardware systems.
• Establish and improve PM processes, metrics, and reporting structures.
• Serve as the primary customer interface for program execution and strategic planning.
• Mentor project managers and technical leaders to foster accountability and collaboration.

Skills

Program management leadership

Cross-functional leadership

Budgeting & financial planning

Risk management

Mentoring & people leadership

Stakeholder management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

MS Project

Jira

Smartsheet

Job description

DSJ Global is seeking a Head of Program Management to lead a portfolio of hardware development programs across optical, electro-optical, imaging, and precision instrumentation technologies. You will oversee cross-functional teams and drive execution from concept through production, partnering with engineering, operations, and executive leadership.

The ideal candidate has a strong technical background, 10+ years in complex hardware programs, and a track record in regulated industries such as