Senior Operations Program Manager

Job Title

Senior Operations Program Manager

Role Summary

Lead program execution at a large R&D and advanced manufacturing site focused on high-mix, low-volume production. The role coordinates cross-functional teams to deliver multiple concurrent programs on schedule while maintaining quality and efficiency.

The manager will drive scheduling, material planning, process improvements, and alignment between R&D, engineering, supply chain, and production.

Experience Level

Senior — the posting describes 7–12+ years in operations experience. Minimum qualifications also list at least 4+ years of program management or related experience.

Responsibilities

Primary responsibilities center on planning, execution, and continuous improvement of operations across many concurrent development and production programs.

• Develop and manage complex program and production schedules, milestones, and sequencing for 30+ concurrent programs.
• Facilitate cross-functional reviews to validate build readiness and manage engineering-driven changes.
• Identify, troubleshoot, and mitigate program risks, material constraints, and schedule issues.
• Optimize workflows and material planning to handle frequent product changes, short runs, and changeovers.
• Implement process improvements, standard work, and tools to increase scalability and efficiency.
• Track and present metrics on progress, costs, and program performance.
• Mentor team members and manage project priorities and deliverables across functions.

Requirements

Must-have operational and program management experience in high-mix, low-volume or R&D-heavy environments; technical familiarity and tool experience are preferred.

• Must: 7+ years operations experience in high-mix, low-volume manufacturing, advanced manufacturing, or R&D/engineering-heavy environments (posting lists 7–12+ years).
• Minimum qualifications include at least 4+ years of program management or related experience.
• Proven experience managing multiple concurrent product lines or programs and supporting NPI/prototype-to-production transitions.
• Strong material planning skills for variable, non-repetitive environments.
• Expertise in creating and optimizing complex production schedules and managing constraints (labor, materials, equipment).
• Data-driven, advanced analytical and problem-solving skills; strong cross-functional communication.
• Preferred: familiarity with MES, ERP, production planning tools, and Lean practices adapted to high-mix workflows.
• Preferred: engineering or technical background is helpful but not required.

Education Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field is specified in the minimum qualifications. No mention of required advanced degrees or certifications; an engineering/technical background is listed as helpful.

About the Company

Company: Qualcomm

Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States

Qualcomm is a global leader in semiconductor and telecommunications equipment, specializing in mobile technologies and innovations. Known for its Adreno GPUs, the company provides solutions enabling advancements in mobile gaming, AI, VR/AR, and autonomous driving. Qualcomm's cutting-edge technology and commitment to high-performance, power-efficient designs drive the evolution of mobile graphics and connectivity worldwide.