Technical Program Management, New College Grad- Bachelor's (Kalispell, MT)

Applied Materials • Kalispell, MT

17h • $68,000 - $93,500

About The Position

This position is ideal for a new college graduate looking to start a career in technical project/program management. We offer mentorship, training, and a supportive environment for you to develop competence in all facets of the role. You will gradually take on more responsibility as you grow, performing structured work assignments, and solving standard problems using established procedures. Over time, you’ll build proficiency in stakeholder management, problem-solving, and strategic thinking – key competencies in our career development framework for program managers at Applied Materials. We seek candidates who are collaborative, driven, and excited to grow with us, bringing fresh perspectives to our team and demonstrating the ability to learn quickly and contribute to project success. Join our Montana Manufacturing Services (MMS) team in Applied Materials’ Semiconductor Products Group (SPG), where we manage new hardware product introductions from concept through high-volume manufacturing. We collaborate cross-functionally to deliver complex mechanical/system assemblies on time and within budget, accelerating time-to-production for cutting-edge semiconductor equipment. This entry-level role offers a growth opportunity to apply engineering knowledge and project management skills in a fast-paced, innovative environment while learning from experienced Technical Program Managers.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Technical Foundation: Fundamental understanding of engineering principles and an interest in hardware/system development.
• Knowledge of basic project management concepts – scheduling, budgeting, risk management – with ability to apply them at a rudimentary level (coursework or project experience) is preferred.
• Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities; comfortable using data and defined processes to solve routine problems. Able to gather, organize, and analyze project information to support decision-making.
• Communication & Teamwork: Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Active listener and team player who can exchange straightforward information, ask questions for clarity, and build positive working relationships across departments.
• Initiative & Learning Mindset: Scientific curiosity and a growth mindset, with eagerness to learn about complex products and business processes. Takes initiative on tasks and demonstrates drive to meet goals. Able to handle ambiguity and adapt to changes as projects evolve.
• Organization & Detail Orientation: High attention to detail in tracking tasks and updating documentation. Well-organized, able to juggle multiple assignments and deadlines. Resourceful and accountable, ensuring work is completed with precision and integrity.
• Software Tools: Proficiency with standard productivity and project tools (e.g. MS Office suite; familiarity with MS Project or similar scheduling tools is a plus). Advanced data analysis skills in Excel, AI and similar are advantageous.

Nice To Haves

• Technical Domain Knowledge (Plus): Exposure to manufacturing processes, supply chain, or hardware development (through coursework or internships) is beneficial. Any experience with semiconductor equipment or hands-on engineering projects is a plus, as it will help in understanding our products and procedures.
• Academic Achievement: A strong academic record is desired (GPA of 3.5 or above preferred). Relevant internship, co-op, or project experience in project management or engineering is highly valued as evidence of practical skills and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate Project Activities: Assist in planning and coordinating project tasks and schedules for new product introduction projects, helping ensure smooth execution from development to HVM (High-Volume Manufacturing) handoff. Update and maintain process improvement matrices and project tracking tools as needed.
• Scheduling & Task Management: Work with team leads to organize project timelines, track deliverables, and maintain detailed status reports and tracking charts for internal visibility. Ensure resources are aligned to meet on-time, on-budget performance objectives.
• Project Documentation: Help prepare and compile project documentation – including drafting Request for Quote (RFQ) packages and updating non-technical sections of Statements of Work. Coordinate completion of key milestones (e.g. design reviews, procurement, build, final sign-off) with all stakeholders.
• Budget & Scope Support: Support the project/program manager in scoping and budgeting efforts. This includes contributing to project cost forecasts (e.g. gross margin improvement forecasts) and monitoring expenses against the budget under guidance.
• Cross-Functional Coordination: Liaise with cross-functional teams (engineering design, supply chain, manufacturing, quality) to support resource alignment and execution of project plans. Help identify stakeholders and ensure each is engaged and informed of project progress.
• Monitor Progress & Risks: Track project progress against schedule, scope, and quality metrics. Proactively flag potential risks or delays and work with the team to resolve issues for at-risk deliverables. Assist in adjusting plans to meet objectives while maintaining compliance with processes.
• Communication & Reporting: Under supervision, communicate project status to internal customers and leadership. Prepare progress updates and participate in meetings/reviews to report on objectives, ensuring transparency on project health. Occasionally interface with external customers or suppliers to support project needs, always under guidance of senior team members.

What This Job Offers

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