Associate Product Manager

Founded in 2011 by graduates of Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), RISE® Robotics is a high-growth technology company backed by The Engine, a Tough Tech venture capital fund built by MIT, Greentown Labs, and Techstars. RISE™Robotics is leading the way to Zero Emission heavy machinery by providing the world's most efficient and productive alternative to hydraulics. We specialize in fostering dynamic partnerships with Tier 1 suppliers, OEMs, and the US Department of Defense, pioneering the transition from traditional hydraulic systems to more efficient and sustainable solutions.

To support the growth and success of the RISE team and technology, we are looking for a talented Associate Product Manager for our products. In your role, you'll play a pivotal role in the development and enhancement of our product portfolio. You'll collaborate with cross-functional teams, help prioritize features and deliverables, and collect data for strategic and tactical decision support.  This position is a hybrid role with 2-3 days/week in Somerville, MA, and will report initially to the CEO and eventually to the CPO.

Why This Role Matters

As a key member of the RISE® Robotics, your contributions will shape the future of our company, spearheading the effort to build out our Beltdraulic Developer KIT (BDK), our sample program and our first OEM products.  Our dynamic and expanding team is ready to embrace your talent and ideas as we work together to kickstart new revenue sources for our company.

You will play a key role in our product development process. Working closely with our executive team, you will be involved in every aspect of product management, from ideation to launch. This is an exciting opportunity to wear multiple hats, take ownership of projects, and contribute to the growth of our product offerings.

If you're passionate about identifying customer needs, have a technical background, and can make data-driven business cases, we want you to be a part of our journey. Join us and make your mark on the world of linear electric actuators and net-zero heavy machinery!

Key Responsibilities

• Product Strategy & Roadmap: Assist in refining and executing the product strategy and roadmap. Collaborate with the product team to prioritize features, plan sprints, and ensure alignment with business goals.
• Market Research & Analysis: Conduct market research to identify customer needs, market trends, and competitive landscape. Gather and analyze data to inform product decisions and validate product ideas.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with engineering, design, marketing, and sales teams to ensure successful product development and launch. Facilitate communication and collaboration across departments.
• User Experience: Advocate for the end-user by understanding their pain points and ensuring the product meets their needs. Assist in creating user personas, journey maps, and wireframes.
• Product Development: Participate in all stages of the product development lifecycle, from ideation to launch. Write detailed product requirements, user stories, and acceptance criteria.
• Product Launch: Support the planning and execution of product launches. Collaborate with marketing and sales teams to develop go-to-market strategies, product positioning, and messaging.
• Performance Monitoring: Monitor and analyze product performance metrics post-launch. Gather feedback from users and stakeholders to identify areas for improvement and drive continuous product optimization.
• Documentation & Reporting: Maintain accurate documentation of product features, updates, and progress. Provide regular updates to the product team and other stakeholders on the status of projects.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science or related field.
• 1-2 years of experience in product management, business analysis, or a related field. Experience in a startup or small team environment is a plus.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and take initiative.
• Familiarity with Agile methodologies and tools (e.g., JIRA, etc).
• Basic understanding of UX/UI principles.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, Google Analytics).
• A team player with a collaborative mindset.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented.
• Adaptable and comfortable with change in a fast-paced environment.
• Passionate about technology and innovation.
• U.S. citizenship is NOT required for this position, but you must have permission to work in the U.S. (e.g. F1-OPT visa)
• H1B sponsorship is not offered at this time

Preferred Skills and Experience

• MBA or equivalent
• Ability to contribute technically in some capacity - design, build, test
• Python coding experience
• Experience with robotics and automation

Benefits

• Competitive compensation package, including equity options
• Health, dental, life, and disability insurance
• Blue Cross Blue Shield health insurance policy- RISE™ pays 70% of the premium
• 401(k) program
• Twenty days PTO and ten office holidays
• Flexible/hybrid work options
• Weekly lunches and company outings (holiday parties, milestone celebrations)
• Free parking/T accessible
• Located in Union Square

RISE Robotics is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at all levels. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply.