Engineering Program Manager

About Matternet

Matternet is pioneering the future of delivery with autonomous drone networks that transport vital goods more swiftly, cleanly, and cost-effectively. Collaborating with partners across healthcare, logistics, food, and retail sectors, Matternet ensures the safe and reliable delivery of everything from medical supplies to everyday necessities.

Role Overview

We are looking for an Engineering Program Manager who will act as the central link among engineering, quality, manufacturing, supply chain, and flight operations teams. This role focuses on transforming ambitious plans into released hardware, certified aircraft, and operational commercial routes. Reporting directly to the COO and working closely with leadership, this position thrives in a dynamic, matrixed startup environment where flexibility and rapid adaptation are keys to success.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead cross-functional programs encompassing engineering, quality assurance, manufacturing, supply chain, and flight operations, ensuring clear visibility of schedules and priorities across teams.
• Collaborate with leadership to develop actionable strategies by defining objectives, key results, and milestones, and ensure all teams are accountable for results.
• Serve as an effective bridge among business, engineering, and operations by facilitating fast information flow and well-informed decision-making.
• Maintain realistic plans by monitoring progress, identifying risks early, and resolving blockers before they escalate.
• Adapt quickly and maintain trust amidst changing and tight timelines, aligning all teams through fluctuating plans.
• Coordinate activities related to production, flight testing, and regulatory compliance milestones.
• Manage external partners and vendors to ensure timely delivery and budget compliance.
• Continuously improve planning, tracking, and communication systems to enhance team performance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering or a related technical discipline.
• Over five years of experience managing complex technical programs involving hardware, software, manufacturing, and operations.
• Exceptional communication skills with the ability to clearly translate between engineers, executives, and external partners.
• Demonstrated success operating within matrixed organizations, managing competing priorities adeptly.
• Experience handling schedule, scope, and budget management from concept through production phases.
• Familiarity working in regulated environments such as aviation, automotive, or medical devices.
• Proficient with Agile methodologies and tools like Jira and Confluence.
• Prior startup experience is highly valued.

Preferred Experience

• Hands-on track record in transitioning hardware or systems from prototype stages to commercial production.
• Background in aviation or other strictly regulated industries.

Work Environment

This is a full-time, onsite position based in Mountain View, CA, on a small team operating in a fast-paced setting.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary range: $160,000 to $205,000 annually, aligned with Bay Area data, with final pay based on experience, skills, and impact.
• Comprehensive benefits including equity participation, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, flexible spending accounts, unlimited paid time off, company holidays, and a 401(k) retirement plan.