Staff Technical Program Manager

Staff Technical Program Manager At Rhoda AI, we're building the full-stack foundation for the next generation of humanoid robots — from high-performance, software-defined hardware to the foundational models and video world models that control it. Our robots are designed to be generalists capable of operating in complex, real-world environments and handling scenarios unseen in training. We work at the intersection of large-scale learning, robotics, and systems, with a research team that includes researchers from Stanford, Berkeley, Harvard, and beyond. We're not building a feature; we're building a new computing platform for physical work — and with over $400M raised, we're investing aggressively in the R&D, hardware development, and manufacturing scale-up to make that a reality. Gen1 represents our first low-volume, fully integrated humanoid system designed for EVT/DVT validation, early customer deployment, and scaling toward Gen2. We are seeking a Technical Program Manager to own the cross-functional execution of Gen1 from integration through DVT. What You'll Do Program Execution - Own the Gen1 integrated master schedule (IMS) and drive EVT → DVT gate readiness - Coordinate system integration milestones and ensure alignment between hardware freeze dates and AI/controls needs - Track long-lead items and tooling readiness across all subsystems Hardware Integration - Align actuator development and coordinate torque sensor validation and calibration plans - Ensure EtherCAT network readiness and manage compute integration (edge inference stack on NVIDIA Thor platform) - Align GMSL2 camera selection and validation; track safety architecture validation (ISO 13849, IEC 61508 considerations) Manufacturing & NPI - Coordinate DFM workshops with shortlisted US-based contract manufacturers - Manage EVT/DVT builds with low-volume NPI partner and drive ECO cadence - Track tooling, fixtures, and test infrastructure readiness; ensure supply chain risk mitigation and dual sourcing where applicable Risk & Decision Velocity - Maintain an active risk register (RPN-based prioritization) and escalate critical blockers with low decision latency - Structure cross-functional resolution sessions and drive root-cause closure with clear accountability Cross-Functional Ownership - Run weekly cross-functional execution reviews across mechanical, electronics, firmware, controls, and supply chain - Define clear entry/exit criteria for EVT and DVT - Coordinate test infrastructure needs (actuator rigs, dyno requirements, endurance testing) - Align certification workstreams for potential EU deployment - Drive readiness for low-volume build target (7–10 units) What We're Looking For - 8+ years of experience in hardware program management in robotics, EV, aerospace, or complex electromechanical systems - Demonstrated ownership of EVT/DVT/PVT cycles - Strong understanding of actuator architectures, embedded systems integration, safety-rated motion control, and multi-axis robotic systems - Experience managing contract manufacturers through NPI and low-volume ramp - Proven ability to operate in low-structure startup environments - Ability to synthesize technical risk into executive-level clarity Nice to Have (But Not Required) - Experience with humanoid or high-DoF robotic systems - Familiarity with EtherCAT-based distributed architectures - Familiarity with SIL2/SIL3 functional safety concepts - Experience with real-time systems - Experience scaling hardware from prototype to mid-volume production Why This Role - Own the execution of Gen1 — Rhoda's first fully integrated humanoid — from EVT through DVT and into early customer deployment, a once-in-a-career program management opportunity - Direct access to executive leadership and a clear path to program leadership as Gen1 scales into Gen2 - Be the connective tissue across every discipline building the robot: hardware, firmware, controls, AI, and manufacturing