Technical Project Manager

As a Technical Project Manager at PhotonFirst, your primary responsibilities include leading multidisciplinary project teams, setting milestones, monitoring project progress, managing budgets, and ensuring successful project execution of photonic sensing applications. You will also communicate project status to stakeholders, collaborate with R&D and operational functions, and support sales for future business opportunities.

To qualify as a Technical Project Manager at PhotonFirst, candidates need a relevant University (WO) or Applied Science (HBO) degree along with at least 5 years of experience managing commercial client projects in a technological context. Strong skills in project management, relationship-building, and experience with project management standards such as WBS, IMS, and quality control are also essential.

At PhotonFirst, the work environment is dynamic and high-tech, filled with passionate individuals who are dedicated to innovation. As a Technical Project Manager, you will enjoy a collaborative atmosphere with a strong entrepreneurial spirit, where creativity and teamwork are highly valued. You'll be engaging with a variety of tasks daily, ensuring that no two days are the same.

While a specific background in photonics isn’t strictly necessary, having a strong technical understanding of photonic technologies will be beneficial for a Technical Project Manager at PhotonFirst. Your ability to grasp complex topics and technical details will help you manage projects effectively and lead multidisciplinary teams successfully.

PhotonFirst offers a competitive salary along with a travel allowance, 27 holidays, and the option to purchase additional days off. Additionally, you'll benefit from an excellent retirement program, a monthly telephone budget, and a contribution towards sports activities, promoting a healthy work-life balance.

Highlight your leadership style and how you foster collaboration among team members. Share specific examples of how you set milestones, maintained motivation, and navigated challenges within a diverse team.

Discuss the tools and methodologies you use for tracking project progress, like Gantt charts and Agile practices. Explain how you adapt to changes and ensure that projects stay on schedule and within budget.

Detail the processes you follow for identifying, analyzing, and mitigating risks. Provide examples of how you've successfully navigated potential project setbacks in the past.

Explain your conflict resolution techniques, focusing on communication and collaboration. Share any specific instances where you successfully managed a conflict and resulted in a positive outcome.

Discuss your experience with various project management methodologies such as Agile, Scrum, and Waterfall. Provide examples of when you utilized these methodologies to drive successful project outcomes.

Share your approach to stakeholder management, including regular updates, reporting, and how you tailor communication styles to suit different audiences, ensuring everyone remains informed and engaged.

Provide a detailed example of a challenging project, focusing on the obstacles faced, how you addressed them, and the final outcome. Highlight your problem-solving and leadership abilities during this process.

Outline the techniques you use for budget tracking and control, such as cost estimation and monitoring expenditures. Provide examples of how your diligence in budget management led to successful project delivery.

Discuss methods such as recognition, setting clear goals, providing personal development opportunities, and fostering a positive team culture that you've used to keep team members engaged and motivated.

Explain your collaboration with sales teams and stakeholders in exploring potential market applications for project outputs. Highlight strategies you have used to support product proposals and pursue follow-on opportunities.