Technical Product Manager

Product Manager - Tactical and Aerospace Hardware Systems

Job Description

The Product Manager is responsible for leading the entire product lifecycle of complex tactical and aerospace hardware systems, from conception to launch. This role combines deep technical expertise in hardware, firmware, software, and systems engineering with strategic business acumen to drive internal product development processes and support business growth in the aerospace and defense sectors.

Key Responsibilities

• Define, communicate and execute the product vision, strategy, and roadmap for tactical and aerospace hardware systems, aligning with company goals and market opportunities
• Prioritize product features and capabilities based on mission-critical requirements, technical feasibility, and Customer and/or user needs as communicated by the Business Development team
• Manage the product backlog, enhancement features, development schedules, and release plans
• Work closely with Business Development and marketing teams to provide technical product information for positioning and go-to-market strategies
• Collaborate with the Business Development team to interpret customer insights and validate product decisions
• Identify and mitigate risks throughout the product lifecycle, with a focus on meeting market and customer needs, cost and schedule constraints, industry standards, and regulatory compliance
• Work with Program Managers and cross-functional engineering teams (mechanical, electrical, firmware, software, and systems) throughout the product development process
• Analyze market research and competitive intelligence provided by the Business Development team to inform product decisions
• Collaborate with Systems Engineering to prioritize, develop and maintain detailed product requirements and technical specifications for complex hardware systems
• Collaborate closely with engineering teams to ensure technical feasibility and guide implementation of hardware and integrated systems
• Analyze product performance metrics and field data to drive continuous product improvement
• Support Business Development initiatives by providing in-depth product expertise and technical insights
• Oversee internal product launch activities, coordinating with engineering, program management office (PMO), quality assurance, stakeholders, and support teams
• Continuously monitor industry trends and emerging technologies in aerospace and defense to maintain product competitiveness

Technical Responsibilities

• Collaborate with engineering teams on system architecture, hardware design, and firmware/software integration
• Participate in design reviews and technical discussions to ensure product quality and alignment with product requirements
• Support in troubleshooting and technical issues across mechanical, electrical, and firmware domains
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies and materials to enhance product capabilities
• Provide product requirements and contribute to the development of technical documentation, including specifications and test plans
• Work with Systems Engineering and quality assurance teams to define test cases and acceptance criteria for hardware systems based on stakeholders.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Passionate and naturally curious about space, cutting edge technology, innovation, and meeting customer needs in the Aerospace and Tactical markets
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, or related technical field required, Electrical or Aerospace preferred 
• 5 years of product management experience in tactical or aerospace hardware systems
• Strong technical background with hands-on experience in hardware and software development and systems integration
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to balance technical considerations and business objectives
• Proven track record of successfully managing complex hardware products in aerospace or defense industries
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to influence cross-functional engineering teams
• Able to work in dynamic environment of a small technology company, open to “wearing many hats” and be flexible, adaptive, agile
• Experience with systems engineering principles and practices
• Familiarity with aerospace and defense industry standards and regulations
• Excellent project management skills and attention to detail
• Proficiency in CAD software, requirement management tools, and Microsoft Office suite
• Ability to effectively collaborate with Business Development teams to translate market needs into product requirements

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in engineering or related technical field
• Knowledge of military and aerospace testing procedures and requirements
• Experience with PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) systems is a plus
• Certification in systems engineering or project management
• Ability to travel up to 25%

This role requires a unique blend of technical expertise in hardware systems, strategic thinking, and leadership skills to drive internal product success and support innovation within the tactical and aerospace industries.