Technical Program Manager RandD Testing

Expected compensation: 91.85 USD Per Hour

HireArt is helping an on-demand, autonomous ride-hailing company hire a Technical Program Manager, R&D Testing to lead testing operations across closed-course environments.

In this role, you’ll oversee end-to-end testing operations, ensuring smooth execution, cross-functional alignment, and operational efficiency. You’ll manage relationships with proving grounds, equipment providers, and other testing partners while coordinating internal stakeholders to ensure readiness for pre-service testing activities.

The ideal candidate is highly cross-functional, collaborative, and comfortable operating in a fast-paced, interdisciplinary environment.

As a Technical Program Manager, R&D Testing, Youll

• Develop and evolve R&D testing strategies in partnership with engineering, operations, finance, procurement, and PMO teams.
• Establish and maintain clear processes and documentation, ensuring roles and responsibilities are well defined and understood.
• Ensure operations teams have the resources and support needed to meet testing requirements.
• Create and manage program reporting, including regular updates on status, risks, and key milestones.
• Manage relationships with external testing partners, including proving grounds and equipment suppliers.
• Define and manage budgets for test tracks, equipment, and other testing resources.
• Maintain a strong technical understanding of vehicle platforms, software lifecycles, and testing operations to support effective decision-making.
  
  

• A bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline or equivalent experience
• 5+ years of experience in engineering, program management, or management consulting
• Experience coordinating schedules and managing shared resources or assets
• Strong ability to communicate clearly and tailor messaging to different audiences
• Proficiency with project management tools (e.g., Gantt charts, risk matrices, Smartsheet, Jira)
• Excellent written, presentation, and verbal communication skills, including the ability to visualize KPIs and program risks
  
  

• Experience with system architecture, safety-critical systems, or test and validation
• Prior technical program management experience
• Experience in automotive product development or with a Tier 1 OEM
• Proven ability to manage complex, cross-functional programs or facilities
• Experience developing and scaling processes, reporting, and escalation frameworks
• Strong prioritization and time management skills in fast-paced environments
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to build relationships across teams
• Ability to operate effectively in ambiguous, high-pressure environments
• Demonstrated ownership, curiosity, and willingness to solve complex problems
  
  

• Pre-tax commuter benefits
• Employer (HireArt) subsidized healthcare benefits (eligibility begins on the first of the month following 60 days of service)
• Flexible Spending Account for healthcare-related costs
• HireArt covers all costs for short- and long-term disability and life insurance
• 401k package