Manager, Project Manager

Manager, Project Manager / Scrum Master – Software, Firmware, and Hardware R&D 3 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants Job Description Nextracker’s Product Engineering organization is a global team of innovators driving advancements in solar tracking and intelligent control systems. We design and deliver next-generation hardware, firmware, and software technologies that enhance solar power plant performance worldwide. We are seeking a Project Manager / Scrum Master with strong technical and organizational skills to lead R&D projects that integrate hardware, firmware, and software development. This individual will manage prototype and proof-of-concept (PoC) programs that explore emerging technologies, validate design concepts, and support future product innovation. This role is focused on research and development execution. The ideal candidate will combine Agile project leadership with deep technical understanding, driving rapid iteration, collaboration, and learning across multidisciplinary teams. Key Job Responsibilities Agile & Project Leadership Serve as Scrum Master for software and firmware development teams, facilitating Agile ceremonies such as sprint planning, daily stand-ups, retrospectives, and reviews. Lead R&D programs involving hardware prototypes, control systems, sensors, and firmware/software integration. Develop and maintain project plans, schedules, and milestones for prototype and PoC development, ensuring technical feasibility and timely delivery. Coordinate prototype builds, testing, and validation activities across cross‑functional engineering teams. Ensure Agile and project management best practices are applied effectively in a dynamic R&D environment focused on experimentation and learning. Cross-Functional Collaboration Collaborate closely with product management, R&D engineering, manufacturing engineering, and supply chain partners to ensure prototype feasibility and design validation. Facilitate communication across distributed teams to align technical goals and execution. Serve as the primary liaison between technical contributors and stakeholders, ensuring clarity in requirements, scope, and outcomes for each R&D effort. Execution & Continuous Improvement Identify and manage risks, dependencies, and resource needs associated with prototype and PoC development. Track progress and report key project metrics (velocity, burn‑down, milestone achievements) to leadership and stakeholders. Promote continuous improvement through Agile retrospectives, data‑driven insights, and process optimization. Drive a culture of innovation, collaboration, and accountability across all phases of R&D project execution. Basic Qualifications Education: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Software, or related field). Experience: 7+ years of experience in project or program management within an engineering or R&D environment, with at least 3 years working with Agile software or firmware teams. R&D Focus: Proven ability to manage early‑stage, cross‑functional prototype and PoC projects involving hardware, firmware, and software integration. Methodologies: Strong knowledge of Agile frameworks (Scrum, Kanban) and hybrid engineering program management practices. Tools: Proficiency with Jira, Confluence, or equivalent Agile and project management tools. Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills; able to translate complex technical details into clear updates for diverse audiences. Soft Skills: Strong organization, facilitation, and problem‑solving abilities; adept at managing ambiguity in exploratory projects. Languages: Fluency in English. Preferred Qualifications Education: Master’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related discipline. Certifications: Certified Scrum Master (CSM), PMP, or PMI‑ACP certification. Experience: 5+ years managing multidisciplinary engineering R&D projects, ideally in renewable energy, IoT, robotics, or industrial automation sectors. Technical Expertise: Understanding of embedded systems, control algorithms, data acquisition, and prototype validation workflows. Leadership: Demonstrated ability to guide cross‑functional teams through concept exploration, design iteration, and PoC demonstration phases. Why Join Nextracker?