Technical Project/Program Management IV

Applied Materials • Santa Clara, CA

6h • Onsite

About The Position

The Photonics Platforms Business Unit (PPB) is a fast-growing, startup-style organization within Applied Materials, pioneering nano-photonic technologies for next-generation Augmented Reality (AR) devices. As Applied expands into a new market and business model—manufacturing and selling a device rather than semiconductor equipment—PPB is scaling rapidly in technical scope, operational complexity, and execution rigor. We are seeking a Senior Technical Program Manager (E4) to drive execution of complex technical programs across R&D, device development, and manufacturing readiness. This role is ideal for a TPM who has moved beyond basic project coordination and is ready to take end-to-end ownership of defined programs or major program workstreams, operating with increasing autonomy while learning from more senior TPMs and leaders.

Requirements

• 3–6+ years of Technical Program or Project Management experience in hardware or advanced technology environments.
• Semiconductor background is required, including exposure to wafer-level processes, device fabrication, or semiconductor manufacturing flows.
• Experience working with engineering teams in R&D, process development, or manufacturing.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related technical field (Master’s preferred).
• Solid understanding of technical program execution in complex environments.
• Growing systems-level thinking, with the ability to connect technical development, process constraints, and execution trade-offs.
• Strong organizational and communication skills; able to work effectively across multiple engineering disciplines.
• Comfortable managing multiple priorities and adapting to change.
• Demonstrated ability to drive progress through influence rather than authority.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in AR/VR, optics, consumer hardware, or advanced materials is a plus but not required.

Responsibilities

• Own execution of assigned technical programs or major sub-programs, spanning R&D, systems engineering, process development, and manufacturing readiness.
• Translate technical objectives into actionable program plans, schedules, dependencies, and deliverables.
• Drive programs through key development phases (Prototype, EVT, DVT, PVT) with guidance from senior TPMs.
• Track execution status, risks, and issues; escalate appropriately and drive mitigation actions with cross-functional teams.
• Coordinate activities across optics, electronics, systems, process engineering, manufacturing, supplier engineering, and operations.
• Support cross-functional alignment by facilitating technical discussions, decision tracking, and action follow-up.
• Prepare clear program updates, dashboards, and materials for technical and leadership reviews.
• Operate effectively in a fast-paced, high-ambiguity environment where processes are still maturing.
• Execute within program management frameworks and tools developed by the PMO.
• Apply standard planning, tracking, and risk-management processes consistently across assigned programs.
• Provide feedback to senior TPMs and the PMO on process gaps, execution friction, and opportunities for improvement.
• Balance agility and discipline, applying appropriate rigor based on program maturity and technical risk.

Benefits

• Supportive work culture that encourages learning, development, and career growth.
• Opportunities to take on challenges and drive innovative solutions.
• Empowerment to push boundaries and learn every day.
• Programs and support for personal and professional growth.
• Care for employees at work, at home, or wherever they may go.
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Potential eligibility for other forms of compensation such as participation in a bonus and a stock award program.

What This Job Offers

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