Head of Product & Programs (Carlsbad)

About Proper Voltage Proper Voltage is unlocking the next generation of battery technology across robotics, data centers, and defense. We build intelligent battery systems that make advanced chemistries-sodium-ion, lithium-titanate, lithium-silicon-work in products never designed for them.

Humanoid robots can upgrade power systems without redesigning their platform. Data centers get safer, cost-effective backup power. Drones and autonomous vehicles get higher energy density with minimal integration effort.

If you want to tackle hard engineering problems that matter-power systems enabling humanoid robots, AI infrastructure, and next-gen mobility-this is the place.

Job Overview: As the Head of Product & Programs at Proper Voltage you will be the driving force behind the definition and delivery of our portfolio of products. You will set a clear product vision and translate it into executable programs that align the business around a single, coherent direction. This role owns the path from concept through production and field deployment, shaping what we build, why we build it, and how it comes together. To be successful, priorities must be clear, tradeoffs intentional and teams empowered to move quickly without losing alignment or rigor. Critically though this cannot come at the cost of the creativity and ambition that drives exceptional product.

If you thrive in balancing ambition and execution, can think creatively and with rigor and are a proven leader this is where you can build something that truly endures.

Responsibilities: Leadership & Organisation Building Build and lead a team spanning product management, technical program management, systems engineering and product data management Act as a trusted partner to the executive team in building and delivering our product vision Model the behaviors and leadership qualities that define our culture, serving as a visible advocate for collaboration, ownership, and continuous improvement. Product Vision & Strategy Own and articulate a clear vision for Proper Voltage's products Translate customer needs, market requirements and company strategy into cohesive product roadmaps and platform strategies. Define product positioning, differentiation and lifecycle evolution in collaboration with commercial and engineering leadership. End-to-End Program Ownership Lead product realization from concept through to production Own program plans, milestones, risks and execution health across multiple concurrent product lines. Lead decision-making in ambiguous, fast-moving situations while maintaining product integrity and delivery discipline. Systems Engineering & Technical Integration Ensure product requirements are well-defined, traceable and balanced across all programs Partner closely with engineering leaders to ensure designs meet product intent and system-level requirements. Champion disciplined systems thinking without creating unnecessary bureaucracy. Product Data & Configuration Control Own product structure, configuration management, and change control processes. Ensure product data integrity across the product lifecycle Balance startup speed with the rigor required for an industrial customer base

Required Qualifications: Proven success in leading product development teams on complex electromechanical products from concept through to production Deep understanding of engineering and manufacturing development process and tools Demonstrated experience operating with high levels of ambiguity 12 or more years of experience in technical program management, systems, new product introduction or product engineering Bachelor’s or graduate degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Systems, or Aerospace Engineering. Strong technical background with comfort in multidisciplinary environments. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Highly organized, detail-oriented, and driven to enforce process consistency.

Preferred Qualifications: Prior experience with: Lithium ion, sodium ion, and other advanced energy storage technologies. DC-to-DC converters and digital controls in power electronics. High-voltage battery backup systems and pulsed power systems. Analog, digital, and mixed-signal circuit design, simulation, and layout. Thermal management for high-power battery systems. Experience in startups or high-growth technology companies, demonstrating adaptability and versatility across engineering disciplines.

Compensation & Benefits : Company Equity Health, dental, vision insurance Flexible PTO with a generous holiday policy Hybrid-friendly work schedule, with travel as needed