Senior AI Technical Program Manager

Cognichip; Redwood City (CA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Cognichip is seeking a Senior AI Technical Program Manager to lead multiple AI software programs from conception to deployment. You will coordinate engineering, product, and research teams to meet strategic objectives and market needs in a dynamic cloud‑based SaaS environment.

Ideal candidates hold a technical degree and 5+ years in AI/ML program management, with proven leadership, risk management, and strong communication skills to influence stakeholders and drive delivery excellence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor degree in EE, CS, or related technical field.
• 5+ years in software PM with AI/ML.
• Proven record delivering multiple SaaS platforms.
• Strong knowledge of Agile (Scrum/Kanban).
• Excellent leadership and communication.
• Semiconductor/chip design background preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead lifecycle of multiple AI software programs from concept to deployment.
• Define scope, objectives, and deliverables aligned to goals.
• Develop program plans with timelines, resources, budgets, risks.
• Foster cross-functional collaboration among eng, product, research.
• Implement Agile processes and PM tools for efficiency.
• Monitor progress, mitigate roadblocks, keep on schedule.
• Report status and risks to executives.
• Drive continuous improvement in delivery and quality.
• Mentor program managers.

Skills

AI/ML PM

Leadership

Agile

Cross-functional

Communication

Risk management

Stakeholder management

Data-driven

Cloud SaaS

Education

Bachelor's in EE/CS

Job description

Senior AI Technical Program Manager

Senior AI Technical Program Manager Join Cognichip.ai, an innovative AI software company at the forefront of transforming the semiconductor industry. As a Program Management Leader, you will play a crucial role in bringing our groundbreaking cloud-based solutions to life, directly impacting the future of AI and semiconductor design. Your leadership will be instrumental in bridging complex technical challenges with strategic business objectives, ensuring the successful delivery of products that push the boundaries of what's possible.

Who You Are

• Highly accomplished and strategic Program Management Leader with deep passion for cutting‑edge AI and proven track record in the semiconductor space.
• Strong technical foundation, evidenced by a university degree in EE, CE, Information Systems, or a related field, and consistently delivered complex cloud‑based SaaS platforms.
• Natural leader who thrives in dynamic environments, capable of inspiring cross‑functional teams and navigating intricate project landscapes with clarity and precision.
• Ability to anticipate challenges, mitigate risks, and drive continuous improvement will be key to our success.

What You’ll Do

• Lead and manage the entire lifecycle of multiple, simultaneous AI software development programs, from initial concept through deployment and ongoing optimization.
• Define clear program scope, objectives, and deliverables, ensuring robust alignment with strategic business goals and market needs.
• Develop and execute comprehensive program plans, meticulously detailing timelines, resource allocation, budget, and proactive risk mitigation strategies.
• Oversee and empower cross‑functional teams, fostering seamless collaboration and ensuring effective communication among engineering, product, research, and other critical stakeholders.
• Implement and continuously optimize program management processes, methodologies (e.g., Agile), and tools to enhance efficiency, predictability, and overall program health.
• Rigorously monitor program progress, identify potential roadblocks, and swiftly implement solutions to maintain momentum and ensure programs remain on schedule.
• Communicate program status, potential risks, and interdependencies with exceptional clarity to executive leadership and all relevant stakeholders.
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement in product delivery, quality, and operational excellence across all programs.
• Mentor and develop a high‑performing team of program managers, fostering their growth and professional development.

What You Bring

• Bachelor degree in EE, CS, or a related technical field such as Data Science or Information Systems.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in program management within the software industry, with a strong emphasis on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) applications.
• Demonstrated and extensive track record of successfully delivering multiple cloud‑based Software‑as‑a‑Service (SaaS) platforms from inception to widespread market adoption.
• Profound understanding of agile development methodologies (e.g., Scrum, Kanban) and a history of their practical and successful application.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to influence, motivate, and inspire diverse teams towards common goals.
• Strong analytical acumen and superior problem‑solving abilities, capable of dissecting and navigating highly complex technical and business challenges.
• Proven ability to effectively manage multiple competing priorities and demanding programs in a fast‑paced, highly dynamic environment.
• Semiconductor & Chip Design background or working knowledge.

Bonus Points

• Masters degree and experience in the semiconductor industry.
• Experience with large‑scale data platforms and distributed systems.
• Prior experience in a startup or fast‑growing technology company.
• Certifications in program or project management (e.g., PMP, PgMP).