Senior Technical Program Manager (TPM)

Job Description

Job Title: Senior Technical Program Manager (TPM). Location: Berkeley, CA, USA

Responsibilities:

Program Leadership

• Own end-to-end delivery of complex technical programs at the system level.
• Build and maintain program roadmaps, milestones, and integration schedules for quantum system releases.
• Drive execution across multiple engineering teams while aligning with company priorities.

Cross-Functional Execution

• Coordinate work between teams, including quantum device fabrication, cryogenic infrastructure, and control hardware/software.
• Manage dependencies and integration across the full quantum computing stack.

Systems Integration

• Lead integration planning for new quantum processor generations and system deployments.
• Ensure alignment between research milestones and engineering deliverables.
• Track readiness across hardware, firmware, and software layers.

Risk & Decision Management

• Identify technical, schedule, and operational risks early.
• Facilitate data-driven decisions with engineering leadership.
• Resolve cross-team blockers and competing priorities.

Operational Excellence

• Establish scalable program management practices for deep-tech R&D.
• Improve engineering planning, milestone tracking, and program reporting.
• Provide leadership with clear program visibility and status reporting.

Qualifications:

• 7+ years of experience in technical program management, engineering program management, or systems engineering.
• Experience delivering complex multidisciplinary technology programs;
• Strong understanding of hardware and software system development lifecycles.
• Proven ability to lead programs across multiple specialized engineering teams.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to operate effectively in ambiguous, research-driven environments.

Preferred:

• Experience in quantum computing, semiconductors, advanced hardware systems, or deep-tech startups.
• Background in R&D organizations or research-to-product transitions.
• Experience with large-scale system integration programs;
• Familiarity with Agile or hybrid development models in hardware/software environments.
• Degree in Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline.

Benefits and Compensation:

• Base Salary: $160,000–$190,000 per year, depending on experience and skills.
• Equity options and competitive benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Paid parental leave and vacation policy aligned with local regulations.
• Rejuvenation days and other wellness-focused benefits.

Other Information:

• Rigetti is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Applications from women, minorities, and other underrepresented groups are encouraged.
• Compliance with anti-discrimination laws and a focus on creating an inclusive work environment;
• AI tools may assist in parts of the hiring process, but final hiring decisions are made by humans.