Overview
We are seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented Product Owner to lead the development and validation of smart device technologies in partnership with a global Tier 1 customer. The ideal candidate will bridge the gap between cross-functional teams (hardware, software, QA, manufacturing) and the customer, ensuring that product requirements are well defined, prioritized, and delivered effectively.
As a Product Owner, you will be responsible for driving product vision, backlog management, sprint planning, and continuous alignment with stakeholders. You will be working closely with internal R&D teams and external customer teams to develop, validate, and deliver high-quality smart device solutions that meet stringent global standards.
Base pay range
$230,000.00/yr - $300,000.00/yr
Responsibilities
- Lead Product Vision and Strategy : Define and drive the long-term product roadmap, aligning product development with both customer needs and market trends.
- Stakeholder Management : Act as the principal liaison between internal teams and the global Tier 1 customer , ensuring alignment on product features, milestones, and quality expectations.
- Product Backlog Management : Own the product backlog and prioritize user stories, features, and requirements based on strategic objectives, customer needs, and technical feasibility.
- Drive Cross-Functional Collaboration : Work closely with senior leadership and technical teams (hardware, software, validation, and manufacturing) to ensure smooth coordination and on-time delivery.
- Agile Leadership : Lead Agile processes and ensure that teams are consistently delivering value, iterating rapidly, and adhering to high-quality standards. Champion continuous improvement in Agile methodologies.
- Product Validation and Testing : Oversee the validation program , ensuring the product meets all technical, regulatory, and customer-specific requirements. Manage testing phases and ensure compliance with global standards.
- Customer Engagement : Present and demo product features to customer executives and senior leadership, ensuring their needs are met and feedback is incorporated into future releases.
- Risk and Dependency Management : Identify and mitigate risks associated with product development, manage complex dependencies, and resolve issues promptly.
- Product Lifecycle Oversight : Own the full lifecycle of the product from concept through development, validation, and post-launch support. Ensure the product aligns with industry regulations and standards.
- KPI and Metrics Reporting : Provide executive-level reporting on product performance, development progress, and any potential roadblocks.
Qualifications
- Technical Expertise
- Extensive experience (20+ years ) in smart device development , including IoT , consumer electronics , wearables , and/or automotive .
- Deep understanding of embedded systems , wireless communication protocols (e.g., BLE, Zigbee, Wi-Fi), firmware , and hardware-software integration .
- Expertise in validation and testing processes across hardware and software, including compliance with industry standards (e.g., FCC , CE , ISO ).
- Proficiency with Agile methodologies and tools like Jira , Confluence , or similar.
- Hands-on experience in product lifecycle management and the ability to lead large-scale product launches.
- Strong understanding of cloud platforms , AI integration, and emerging technologies in smart devices.
- Strategic and Leadership Skills
- Proven track record in leading global product teams and managing complex cross-functional projects with multiple stakeholders.
- Exceptional stakeholder management skills, with the ability to communicate complex technical concepts to senior executives and non-technical audiences.
- Ability to drive customer-centric product strategies and translate customer needs into high-level product vision and detailed requirements.
- Strong problem-solving and conflict resolution capabilities, with the ability to make tough decisions in high-pressure situations.
- Ability to balance long-term strategic planning with short-term tactical execution.
- Experience
- 20+ years in a Product Owner or equivalent senior role in smart device, IoT, or consumer electronics development .
- Proven leadership experience in collaborating with Tier 1 customers in a global or enterprise-level context.
- Expertise in developing and managing highly complex products with a focus on validation , quality assurance , and regulatory compliance .
- Demonstrated success in driving cross-functional team performance across regions and time zones.
- Experience in product management or technical program management in wearable devices or related hardware/software systems.
- Strong understanding of system-level validation, verification methodologies, and test planning.
- Familiarity with wearable device technologies including AR/VR hardware, sensors, firmware, and software integration.
- Ability to work cross-functionally with engineering, QA, and product teams.
- Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills.
- Preferred Qualifications
- Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO) or equivalent agile certification.
- Technical background in Electrical/Electronics Engineering , Computer Science , or a related discipline.
- Experience in leading large-scale product portfolios and aligning them with global market trends and customer-specific requirements.
- Knowledge of advanced technologies such as AI/ML , voice assistants , or connected ecosystems in smart devices.
Benefits
- 401(k) matching
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
- Employer paid Life Insurance, Short- & Long-Term Disability
Location
- Sunnyvale, CA (on-site)
- You must be able to commute to and from the location with your own transportation arrangements to meet the required working hours.