About Sesame
Sesame believes in a future where computers are lifelike - with the ability to see, hear, and collaborate with us in ways that feel natural and human. With this vision, we're designing a new kind of computer, focused on making voice companions part of our daily lives. Our team brings together founders from Oculus and Ubiquity6, alongside proven leaders from Meta, Google, and Apple, with deep expertise spanning hardware and software. Join us in shaping a future where computers truly come alive.
We are seeking a highly organized and driven Hardware Operations Program Manager to lead critical initiatives across the product lifecycle — from new product introduction (NPI) through mass production — for our consumer electronics portfolio. You will work cross-functionally with engineering, supply chain, manufacturing, quality, and logistics teams to ensure products are delivered on time, at quality, and within cost targets.
Responsibilities:
Program Ownership: Manage operational readiness for new product launches, including factory setup, materials planning, build schedules, and readiness reviews.
Cross-Functional Leadership: Drive alignment across hardware engineering, manufacturing, procurement, and logistics to meet operational program goals.
Supplier Management: Work with contract manufacturers and key suppliers to ensure production plans, capacity, and ramp readiness meet requirements.
Risk Management: Identify, track, and mitigate risks across schedule, supply chain, quality, and cost during product development and ramp.
NPI to Mass Production: Build and manage operational schedules, materials availability, tooling, and production ramp plans through engineering builds (EVT/DVT/PVT).
Process Improvement: Analyze program performance and drive continuous improvements in yield, throughput, cost, and quality.
Reporting: Provide regular status updates to stakeholders, including executive leadership, highlighting key risks, metrics, and mitigation plans.
Required qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, Operations Management, or a related field.
5+ years of experience in operations program management, manufacturing program management, or supply chain management, preferably in consumer electronics.
Strong understanding of NPI processes, manufacturing operations, and supply chain dynamics.
Exceptional project management and organizational skills; able to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to influence cross-functional teams without direct authority.
Experience working with overseas suppliers and contract manufacturers, especially in Asia (e.g., China, Japan, Vietnam, Taiwan).
Strong data analysis skills; proficient with Excel, project management tools, and ERP systems.
Preferred qualifications:
Master's degree (MBA or MS in Operations/Supply Chain/Engineering).
PMP, Six Sigma, or Lean Manufacturing certification.
Experience with consumer electronics products involving PCBA, plastics, batteries, and mechanical assemblies.
Familiarity with PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) systems like Agile, Arena, or equivalent.
Sesame is committed to a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered. We welcome all qualified applicants, embracing diversity in race, gender, identity, orientation, ability, and more. We provide reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities—contact careers@sesame.com for assistance.
Full-time Employee Benefits:
401k matching
100% employer-paid health, vision, and dental benefits
Unlimited PTO and sick time
Flexible spending account matching (medical FSA)
Benefits do not apply to contingent/contract workers