Program Manager, Advanced Operations (AO)

Stryker•San Jose, CA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Program Manager, Advanced Operations (AO) is responsible for leading high-impact engineering programs, ensuring effective planning, prioritization, and execution across multiple initiatives. This role drives alignment across cross-functional teams, manages program risks and changes, and ensures delivery against scope, budget, and timeline expectations. This role is onsite in San Jose, CA.

Requirements

BS Degree in a scientific or technical discipline.
8 + years of work experience leading engineering or product development programs within a regulated industry (medical device strongly preferred)
Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment
Strong understanding of Advanced Operations responsibilities, including Design transfer, Process development and validation, Manufacturing readiness and scale-up
Experience managing scope, schedule, budget, and change control
Demonstrated ability to identify risks, solve operational problems, and drive decisions under pressure
Strong cross-functional leadership skills, including working with engineering, quality, and external partners
Experience managing third-party vendors and contractors

Nice To Haves

MS Degree or MBA
Experience within Advanced Operations or manufacturing engineering organizations
Background in new product introduction (NPI) or design-to-commercialization programs
Experience influencing cross-functional stakeholders without direct authority

Responsibilities

Plan, prioritize, and manage multiple complex engineering projects across Advanced Operations
Lead program execution, ensuring alignment to scope, budget, and timeline commitments
Develop project plans and allocate team resources effectively to meet key milestones and deadlines
Monitor program progress and performance against established plans; proactively identify risks, issues, and delays
Evaluate and approve changes that significantly impact project scope, budget, or schedule
Lead complex and business-critical initiatives, driving resolution of operational challenges
Partner with cross-functional teams (R&D, Quality, Manufacturing) to ensure successful execution through the product lifecycle
Select and manage external vendors and contractors to ensure delivery of high-quality services and outcomes
Serve as the primary program point of contact for senior leadership, delivering clear, concise updates on progress, risks, dependencies, and recommendations.
Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate program‑level risks, escalating appropriately and driving resolution through governance forums.