We are seeking a Software Program Manager with good familiarity with the networking and connectivity industry to drive software development programs across our WiFi, cloud NMS, switching, and routing product portfolio. This role will coordinate software delivery and integration across diverse networking platforms, working closely with engineering teams to ensure aligned development cycles and successful product launches. The ideal candidate combines strong program management skills with sufficient networking industry knowledge to effectively communicate with technical teams and understand customer requirements.
Software Program Leadership
Lead comprehensive release planning across WiFi, routing, switching firmware and cloud platform development
Establish and maintain integrated software development roadmaps with clear milestones and dependencies
Drive cross-team alignment on release schedules, ensuring coordinated delivery across all product lines
Own program governance frameworks and decision-making processes for software development initiatives
Establish accountability frameworks ensuring clear ownership for all software deliverables and components
Delivery & Process Management
Drive end-to-end release planning cycles, coordinating timelines across embedded firmware, cloud services, and management applications
Establish and track comprehensive program metrics including schedule adherence, milestone completion, and delivery quality
Lead risk identification, assessment, and mitigation planning across all software development streams
Manage complex software integration schedules involving hardware bring-up, driver development, and cloud connectivity
Drive continuous improvement in software development processes and cross-team collaboration effectiveness
Cross-Team Coordination & Ownership Management
Ensure comprehensive team involvement in planning processes - no gaps in representation or ownership
Identify and resolve ownership ambiguities for cross-cutting software features and integration points
Coordinate software dependencies between embedded firmware teams and cloud platform development
Drive accountability for software compatibility across hardware platforms and software versions
Lead regular program reviews ensuring all relevant stakeholders are engaged and informed
Risk Management & Issue Resolution
Proactively identify program risks across technical, resource, and timeline dimensions
Establish risk escalation processes and drive mitigation strategies across all software development streams
Lead issue triage and resolution coordination when problems span multiple teams or product areas
Manage program communication during critical issues, ensuring appropriate stakeholder engagement
Drive post-mortem processes and incorporate learnings into future planning cycles
Required Qualifications
Experience & Background
8+ years of software program management experience with 3+ years in networking/connectivity industry
General understanding of networking technologies and software development for connected devices
Experience managing software development programs across multiple product lines or platforms
Background coordinating between software engineering teams and other cross-functional stakeholders
Familiarity with both embedded software development cycles and cloud/SaaS development practices
Technical Expertise
Good familiarity with networking software development lifecycles and embedded software concepts
Understanding of WiFi technology landscape (WiFi 6/6E/7), enterprise wireless solutions, and connectivity trends
Working knowledge of routing and switching concepts (BGP, OSPF, VLAN, spanning tree, QoS)
Familiarity with cloud platforms, microservices architectures, and modern software development practices
General understanding of network security principles and compliance requirements
Program Management Skills
Proficiency with modern development tools (Jira, Git, Jenkins, containerization platforms)
Experience with agile development methodologies adapted for hardware-software integration projects
Strong analytical skills with ability to identify and resolve complex cross-team dependencies
Proven track record managing software programs with 6-12 month development cycles
Experience with regulatory compliance processes and certification requirements for networking equipment
Leadership & Communication
Excellent communication skills with ability to work effectively with software engineering teams
Experience building collaborative relationships across engineering, product, and business teams
Strong problem-solving skills with ability to coordinate resolution of cross-team issues
Track record of driving alignment across diverse teams without direct management authority
Customer-focused mindset with understanding of enterprise technology deployment challenges
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related technical field
Experience with network management protocols (SNMP, NETCONF, OpenConfig)
Background with DevOps practices and infrastructure automation in networking environments
Knowledge of network virtualization, SDN, and intent-based networking concepts
Previous experience with WiFi Alliance certification processes and regulatory compliance
Understanding of network security frameworks and enterprise authentication systems (802.1X, RADIUS)
Key Success Metrics
On-time delivery of coordinated software releases across all product lines
Proactive identification and mitigation of program risks before they impact delivery
Zero gaps in ownership or accountability for software deliverables across teams
Improved cross-team collaboration and communication effectiveness
Successful coordination of complex multi-team software initiatives and dependency management
Company Statement/Values:
At NETGEAR, we are on a mission to unleash the full potential of connectivity with intelligent solutions that delight and protect. We turn ideas into innovative networking products that connect people, power businesses, and advance the way we live.
We're a performance-driven, talented and connected team that's committed to delivering world-class products for our customers. As a company, we value our employees as the most essential building blocks of our success. And as teammates, we commit to taking our work to the Next Gear by living our values: we Dare to Transform the future, Connect and Delight our customers, Communicate Courageously with each other and collaborate to Win It Together. You’ll find our values woven through our processes, present in our decisions, and celebrated throughout our culture.
We strive to attract top talent and create a great workplace where people feel engaged, inspired, challenged, proud and respected. If you are creative, forward-thinking, passionate about technology and are looking for a rewarding career to make an impact, then you've got what it takes to succeed at NETGEAR. Join our network and help us shape the future of connectivity.
NETGEAR hires based on merit. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
Top Skills
What We Do
At NETGEAR, we turn ideas into innovative networking products that connect people, power businesses, and advance the way we live. Easy to use. Powerful. Smart. And designed just for you.
For Home
NETGEAR makes it easy for you to have the smartest home in the neighborhood, with the latest, fastest networking technology products. From the most advanced wireless internet connectivity, to superior streaming, remote home video monitoring, and storage solutions, your home networking system will have the speed, range and performance you need, every time you need it. At NETGEAR, we focus on all things connected, with the goal of making your online experience seamless so you can sit back, relax and do more.
For Business
In business, confidence is everything. When it comes to your network, it’s even more important. Whether you’re a small business with big dreams or a mid-size business ready to take the next step, you need to share access and ideas safely, connect remote locations securely and give your people the tools to perform. At NETGEAR, we provide networking, storage and security solutions without the cost and complexity of big IT. Our advanced range of reliable, affordable networking products are easy to install and maintain. We deliver solutions you can count on, so you can spend more time on what matters most – growing your business.
For Service Providers
Keeping your customers happy and loyal is everything. At NETGEAR we are dedicated to your success. That’s why we deliver the tools and solutions you need to keep your residential and business customers connected, productive and satisfied. Partner with NETGEAR for home connectivity, home media, security and automation, and mobile solutions. We pay attention to the details that matter to you to deliver custom, cost-effective and scalable solutions that contribute to your bottom line.
