Technical Program Manager – Factory Launch

Foundation is developing the future of general purpose robotics with the goal to address the labor shortage.

Our mission is to create advanced robots that can operate in complex environments, reducing human risk in conflict zones and enhancing efficiency in labor-intensive industries.

We are on the lookout for extraordinary engineers and scientists to join our team. Your previous experience in robotics isn't a prerequisite — it's your talent and determination that truly count.

We expect that many of our team members will bring diverse perspectives from various industries and fields. We are looking for individuals with a proven record of exceptional ability and a history of creating things that work.

Our Culture

We like to be frank and honest about who we are, so that people can decide for themselves if this is a culture they resonate with. Please read more about our culture here https://foundation.bot/culture.

Who should join:

You like working in person with a team in San Francisco.You deeply believe that this is the most important mission for humanity and needs to happen yesterday.You are highly technical - regardless of the role you are in. We are building technology; you need to understand technology well.You care about aesthetics and design inside out. If it's not the best product ever, it bothers you, and you need to “fix” it.You don't need someone to motivate you; you get things done.

As the Technical Program Manager for Factory Launch, you will own the execution of a new humanoid robot manufacturing plant—from facility readiness through production ramp and staged automation deployment.

You will coordinate engineering, operations, automation, and supply chain teams to bring the factory online and scale production quickly. The work is complex, fast-paced, and highly cross-functional. Success requires strong technical judgment, relentless execution, and the ability to solve problems in real time.

This role sits at the center of one of the most critical programs in the company: bringing large-scale humanoid robot manufacturing online.

What You’ll Do

Own Factory Launch Execution

Lead the end-to-end execution of a new manufacturing plant launch, including:

Factory readinessEquipment installationProduction line bring-upPilot buildsProduction ramp

Develop and maintain the master launch schedule and drive teams to meet aggressive milestones.

Drive Cross-Functional Alignment

Coordinate work across multiple technical teams:

Manufacturing EngineeringProcess / Industrial EngineeringAutomation & ControlsFacilities EngineeringSupply ChainQuality EngineeringOperations

Ensure dependencies are managed and blockers are resolved quickly.

Enable Production Ramp

Support the execution of the production ramp plan, including:

Initial production launchStaged automation deploymentCapacity expansion phases

Work closely with engineering and operations teams to ensure the manufacturing system reaches stable, repeatable output.

Manage Program Risk

Identify program risks early and drive mitigation actions.

Maintain clear visibility of:

ScheduleProgram risksCritical path activities

Launch readinessCommunicate progress and risks to leadership with clarity and urgency.

Execute with Speed

Factory launches involve ambiguity and constant change. You will be expected to:

Make decisions quicklySolve complex problems cross-functionally

Remove obstacles that slow executionWhat We’re Looking For

8+ years of experience managing complex technical programsStrong understanding of manufacturing systems or production engineeringExperience leading large cross-functional engineering programsAbility to drive teams through ambiguity and aggressive timelines

Strong technical judgment combined with exceptional executionIdeal Background

Manufacturing plant launchesRobotics, EV, aerospace, or complex electromechanical productsAutomation deployment and production rampHardware development programs

Foundation Hardcore Requirements

Foundation operates with a hardcore execution culture. This role requires individuals who are comfortable working in an environment where speed, ownership, and accountability are essential.

You must be someone who:

Takes full ownership of program outcomesMoves fast and makes decisions with incomplete informationSolves problems directly instead of escalating themWorks effectively under pressure and tight deadlinesIs willing to step outside defined roles to get the job donePrioritizes execution and results over process

This environment is demanding, but it enables us to move significantly faster than traditional manufacturing organizations.

Benefits:

We provide market standard benefits (health, vision, dental, 401k, etc.). Join us for the culture and the mission, not for the benefits.

Salary:

The annual compensation is expected to be between $145,000+. Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and location.