Program Manager (Hardware & Software)

Johnson Controls • Westford, MA

3d • $107,000 - $160,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

Johnson Controls is seeking a results-driven Program Manager to join their Fire Detection New Product Introduction (NPI) Program Management Office. This role is based in Westford, MA, and offers a hybrid work environment. The Program Manager will be responsible for the end-to-end development and commercialization of NPI projects for innovative fire detection products, encompassing both software and hardware. This includes managing project timelines, assigning responsibilities, monitoring progress, and overseeing budgets. The role also involves administering project portfolios in JCI’s Enterprise PPM tool and leading Value Analysis/Value Engineering (VAVE) initiatives for cost optimization and design efficiency.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
• 5+ years of professional experience in product design and new product introduction within a manufacturing context (e.g., collaboration with design engineers, manufacturing, sourcing, product management, marketing, etc.).
• 2+ years of experience in program management.
• Proven track record of successfully managing product development projects to completion.
• Demonstrated experience leading Value Analysis / Value Engineering (VAVE) or cost reduction initiatives, with proven ability to deliver measurable cost savings and design improvements in a manufacturing environment.
• Capacity to navigate ambiguity, manage change effectively, transition priorities, and make sound decisions.
• Proficient in Microsoft Project and advanced Excel reporting.
• Exceptional oral and written communication skills, along with strong analytical, writing, and presentation abilities.
• Strong conflict management and critical thinking skills.
• Proven ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Familiarity with PMI's Project Management Book of Knowledge (PMBOK®).
• Meticulous attention to detail and technical accuracy.
• Outstanding organizational and technical competencies.
• Effective interpersonal and multitasking skills.
• Product launch experience is essential.

Nice To Haves

• Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification.
• Proficiency in Visio, Jira, Confluence, and Power BI.
• Experience within the fire protection industry.

Responsibilities

• Drive the successful end-to-end development and commercialization of NPI projects delivering innovative fire detection products, spanning both software and hardware domains.
• Oversee all facets of projects, establishing deadlines, assigning responsibilities, and monitoring as well as summarizing project progress.
• Manage project-level and departmental budgets, including planning, forecasting, tracking, and reporting on spend to ensure alignment with organizational goals.
• Administer and maintain project portfolios within JCI’s Enterprise PPM tool, ensuring accurate project setup, resource allocation, financial tracking, and governance adherence.
• Lead Value Analysis/Value Engineering (VAVE) initiatives to drive cost optimization, design efficiency, and product competitiveness across programs.
• Prepare reports for upper management regarding project statuses.
• Apply expert-level Excel and PowerBI skills to develop data-driven reports, build interactive dashboards, and automate workflows that enable actionable business insights.
• Maintain familiarity with various engineering, project management, and product concepts, practices, and procedures.
• Execute tasks with quality and timeliness, whether under direct supervision or independently.
• Establish and sustain effective working relationships across teams.
• Utilize strong organizational navigation skills to facilitate progress and drive results.
• Uphold the organization’s values by promptly escalating issues to the appropriate managers for resolution, sharing best practices across teams, serving as a brand advocate, and mentoring others to foster a supportive work environment.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with all stakeholders, offering assistance with issues or concerns to ensure satisfactory resolution.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Paid vacation/holidays/sick time
• Comprehensive benefits package including 401K, medical, dental, and vision care.
• On-the-job/cross-training opportunities
• Encouraging and collaborative team environment
• Dedication to safety through our Zero Harm policy
• Competitive Bonus plan
• Competitive benefits package

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level