At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting silicon design projects and collaborate with top tech partners.
- Company: Join a pioneering non-profit in open source silicon innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday allowance, and a paid sabbatical after 4 years.
- Other info: Dynamic Cambridge office environment with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the tech world while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in project management and a strong technical background required.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
About low RISC low RISC CIC is a non-profit Community Interest Company, collaborating with international engineering partners to create and maintain open source silicon designs, firmware and tools.
This includes low RISC’s flagship Open Titan project - the largest open source silicon project in the world.
Through projects like Open Titan we partner with organisations such as ETH Zürich, G+D Mobile Security, Google and Nuvoton.
We also maintain close links to researchers in computer architecture at the University of Cambridge amongst other research communities.
About the role
We are looking for an experienced Technical Project Manager to join our engineering team and deliver complex silicon subsystem and chip design projects.
This is an hybrid/on-site hands-on role based in our Cambridge office, working closely with both our technical teams and major commercial semiconductor partners to coordinate the delivery of high-quality open source silicon designs, firmware, and tools.
Key responsibilities
- Plan, track, and manage complex subsystem and chip design projects for major commercial customers.
- Apply structured project/programme planning tools, working closely with engineering teams on silicon and embedded software projects.
- Align internal digital design, verification, and embedded software teams with external silicon partners and academic collaborators.
- Collaborate with engineering leads to draft and execute Statements of Work (So Ws), manage technical scope changes, and run robust risk tracking.
- Manage tracking and compliance for grant-funded research and development projects.
- Required experience
- Bachelor's degree in a technical field or equivalent practical experience.
- At least 3 years project management experience in highly technical environments.
- Strong understanding of good practices in planning and managing delivery in technically challenging projects.
- Strong grasp of hardware development processes of Embedded Systems including digital design, FPGA development, silicon design flows or firmware / software.
- Experience working closely with technical teams and facilitating cross-functional collaboration.
- Strong relationship management abilities, excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Desirable experience
- Professional certification in project management (APM, PMP or equivalent).
- Familiarity with open-source silicon communities and collaborative governance.
- Salary, Benefits, and Sponsorship
Starting salary is £70-90,000 GBP depending on experience.
Benefits include a generous employer pension contribution (up to 12.5%), holiday allowance (33 days including public holidays), private medical insurance, and a 4 week paid sabbatical after 4 years of service.
The team is based in Cambridge, UK, amongst the Silicon Fen’s ecosystem of high tech startups. Our office is in the heart of the city and a short walk from the train station.
We do not discriminate against any employee or candidate because of race, colour, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or any other protected characteristic.
Technical Project Manager employer: Fast Forward
lowRISC CIC is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and innovative work environment in the heart of Cambridge's thriving tech ecosystem. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we provide generous benefits including a substantial pension contribution, extensive holiday allowance, and opportunities for professional development through engaging projects like OpenTitan. Join us to be part of a mission-driven team that values diversity and fosters meaningful contributions to open source silicon design.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Technical Project Manager
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Technical Project Manager role you’re after at Fast Forward.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at Fast Forward a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at Fast Forward.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Technical Project Manager at Fast Forward, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Technical Project Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Technical Project Manager, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at Fast Forward a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Fast Forward specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Fast Forward
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Fast Forward, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like Fast Forward want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
