Staff Technical Program Manager

DuolingoUSA3w ago

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Job description

About the role

Duolingo is seeking a highly skilled Staff Technical Program Manager to join our dynamic team in Seattle, WA. In this pivotal role, you will lead cross-functional initiatives that drive the development and enhancement of our language-learning platform. Your expertise will be instrumental in ensuring that projects are delivered on time, within scope, and aligned with our strategic objectives. You will collaborate closely with engineering, product management, and design teams to facilitate effective communication and execution of our vision.

Key facts

Location: USA

Engagement: Full-time

Salary: Competitive, commensurate with experience

Visa: Sponsorship available for qualified candidates

What you'll do

Lead and manage complex technical programs from inception through delivery, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and timelines.
Collaborate with engineering teams to define project scopes, objectives, and deliverables, while establishing clear milestones and performance metrics.
Facilitate cross-functional communication among stakeholders, including product managers, designers, and engineers, to ensure cohesive project execution.
Identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies to address challenges that may impact project timelines or deliverables.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives by analyzing project outcomes and implementing best practices for future programs.
Serve as the primary point of contact for project status updates, providing regular reports to senior leadership and stakeholders.
Foster a culture of collaboration and accountability within project teams, encouraging open dialogue and feedback.
Utilize project management tools and methodologies to track progress, manage resources, and ensure adherence to project timelines.
Mentor and guide junior program managers, providing support and sharing knowledge to enhance team capabilities.
Engage with external partners and vendors as necessary to ensure successful integration of third-party solutions into our platform.
Conduct post-project evaluations to assess outcomes and gather insights for future initiatives.
Champion Duolingo's mission and values throughout all project interactions, promoting a positive and inclusive work environment.

Requirements

A minimum of 8 years of experience in technical program management or related fields, preferably within the technology or software development sectors.
Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale, cross-functional projects from conception to completion.
Strong understanding of software development processes, agile methodologies, and project management frameworks.
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate diverse teams, fostering collaboration and a shared sense of purpose.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on data-driven decision-making.
Experience with project management tools such as Jira, Trello, or Asana, and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, managing multiple priorities and adapting to changing circumstances.
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field; advanced degrees are a plus.

Nice to have

Familiarity with language learning technologies or educational software is highly desirable.
Experience working in a remote or hybrid work environment, with a strong understanding of virtual collaboration tools.
Knowledge of user experience design principles and best practices in product development.
Previous experience in a startup or high-growth company, demonstrating adaptability and resourcefulness.
Certification in project management (PMP, Scrum Master, etc.) is a plus.

Skills & tools

Proficient in project management methodologies, including Agile and Waterfall.
Strong technical acumen, with the ability to understand and engage with engineering teams effectively.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail, ensuring high-quality project outcomes.
Ability to build and maintain relationships with stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
Strong negotiation and conflict resolution skills, with a focus on achieving win-win outcomes.

Practical notes

This position is based in Seattle, WA, and may require occasional travel for team meetings or conferences.
The role may involve working with international teams, so flexibility in working hours may be necessary.
Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States; visa sponsorship is available for qualified applicants.