Senior Technical Program Manager – Hardware Quality, Supplier & FRU Programs

VAST Data

. Own the supplier quality and FRU program roadmap and set priorities against product launches, supply risks, and field quality issues .

Posted 11/12/2026full-timeChandler • Arizona • United StatesSeniorWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in managing supplier quality and FRU programs, with a strong focus on failure analysis, quality audits, and cross-functional collaboration. Proficient in utilizing quality frameworks and statistical tools to drive improvements in hardware product lifecycle management.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Technical Program ManagementSupplier Quality ManagementFailure Analysis (8D/RCCA, FMEA)Quality Audits (ISO 9001)Hardware Product Lifecycle Management

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Failure Analysis8D/RCCAFMEAStatistical Process Control (SPC)Quality Performance MetricsFRU / Service Parts ProgramsContract Manufacturer ManagementHardware and Electronics KnowledgeRisk ManagementProcess Improvement

Soft Skills

Excellent CommunicationOrganizational SkillsProblem-SolvingCollaborative LeadershipExecutive Presentation Skills

Tools & Technologies

ExcelPythonRJiraConfluenceSmartsheetPLM SystemsERP SystemsService Parts Planning ToolsQuality Dashboards

Certifications & Qualifications

PMP CertificationASQ CQESix Sigma Green BeltSix Sigma Black Belt

Industry Keywords

Supplier QualityNPIEOLOEMODMData Center TechnologiesEnterprise HardwareISO 9001Lean ManufacturingRegional Product Compliance

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

ERPPMPPython

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Own the supplier quality and FRU program roadmap and set priorities against product launches, supply risks, and field quality issues
Lead cross-functional hardware quality and supplier programs from NPI through production, sustaining support, and end of life
Manage schedules, milestones, risks, dependencies, and executive status reporting
Run weekly supplier and FRU reviews, monthly cross-functional reviews, and quarterly supplier business reviews
Own quality performance for contract manufacturers, OEMs, and component suppliers, including supplier scorecards
Analyze failure data from testing, production, and the field to identify trends, patterns, and root causes
Program-manage closed-loop failure analysis using 8D/RCCA, FMEA, 5 Whys, and fishbone methods
Track supplier corrective actions to on-time closure
Lead quality and process audits at supplier and contract manufacturer sites against ISO 9001 and related standards
Lead improvement projects for test protocols, manufacturing processes, and quality controls
Develop, track, and report quality KPIs including defect rates, yield, reliability, field failure rates, NTF rates, and RMA trends
Own FRU readiness as a gate in NPI and ECO release, including part number creation, breakdown BOMs, FAI, packaging, testing, imaging, and depot stocking plans
Define FRU breakdowns and document OEM warranty paths where FRUs are impractical
Partner with Service Logistics, Planning, and contract manufacturers on FRU forecasting, sourcing, and purchasing
Define FRU test, return, and failure analysis requirements and ensure complete test records
Drive install-base and compatibility data for correct FRU selection
Drive alignment across Engineering, Operations, Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, Service Logistics, Support, and suppliers
Facilitate supplier reviews and issue-resolution meetings
Maintain program plans, quality dashboards, FRU readiness trackers, status reports, and operational metrics
Create and maintain failure analysis reports, root cause documents, process improvement plans, supplier quality requirements, test and return/FA requirements, and FRU procedures
Present findings and recommendations to senior leadership and explain complex data to non-technical stakeholders

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, or Manufacturing), Computer Science, or a related technical field
7+ years of Technical Program Management experience in enterprise hardware, storage, or data center technologies, preferably on x86-based platforms
Background in supplier quality, quality or process engineering, or hardware operations
Strong hardware and electronics knowledge, including PCBs, components, connectors, cables, and system-level hardware
Strong experience managing contract manufacturers, ODM/OEM partners, and component suppliers
Hands-on experience with failure analysis, 8D/RCCA, FMEA, statistical process control (SPC), PCN/ECO change control, and supplier corrective action programs
Experience leading supplier quality and process audits
Experience with FRU / service parts programs, RMA processes, and depot or spares operations
Strong understanding of the hardware product lifecycle, including NPI, qualification, sustaining, component transitions, and EOL
Excellent organizational, communication, and executive presentation skills
Proven ability to manage multiple complex programs simultaneously
Strong problem-solving, risk management, and execution skills
Preferred: experience with enterprise server, storage, or AI infrastructure platforms
Preferred: familiarity with ISO 9001, IATF 16949, APQP/PPAP, and FAI
Preferred: knowledge of Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, DMAIC, or similar quality frameworks
Preferred: proficiency with Excel, Python, R, or other statistical software
Preferred: experience with hardware product design, testing, and manufacturing processes
Preferred: experience with PLM and ERP systems such as Propel, NetSuite, or Salesforce and service parts planning tools
Preferred: knowledge of regional product compliance and certification requirements such as BIS, CE, and UKCA
Preferred: experience with Jira, Confluence, Smartsheet, or similar project management tools
PMP certification preferred; ASQ CQE or Six Sigma Green/Black Belt a plus
Preferred: experience working in a start-up environment and adapting to change management and control
Collaborative leadership style with strong communication skills

Benefits

Comp & perks

Full-time employment
Hybrid work arrangement
Opportunity to contribute to VAST Data’s AI-era data platform
Opportunity to work on high-impact hardware quality, supplier, and FRU programs
Collaboration with cross-functional teams and senior leadership