Software Engineering Program Management, Lead Bay Area, CA,

Software Engineering Program Management, Lead

Remote Bay Area, CA, US

Posted Date: 12/19/25

Block is an equal opportunity employer evaluating all employees and job applicants without regard to identity or any legally protected class. We will consider qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records for employment in accordance with state and local laws and “fair chance” ordinances.

Block takes a market-based approach to pay, and pay may vary depending on your location. U.S. locations are categorized into one of four zones (A, B, C,

D) based on a cost of labor index for that geographic area. The successful candidate’s starting pay will be determined based on job-related skills, experience, qualifications, work location, and market conditions. These ranges may be modified in the future. Typical ranges:
Zone A: $239,600 — $359,400 USD, Zone B: $239,600 — $359,400 USD, Zone C: $239,600 — $359,400 USD, Zone D: $239,600 — $359,400 USD.

As the Lead of the Software Engineering Program Management (EPM) team for Block Hardware, you will manage a team of highly skilled Software EPMs responsible for driving complex, cross-functional programs across payment hardware products as well as our growing portfolio of Bitcoin hardware products. This role requires a strong technical background in consumer electronics, software/firmware systems, hardware–software integration, and an appreciation for the unique challenges and opportunities presented by both payment and Bitcoin-focused devices.

In this role, you will shape strategy for the Software EPM discipline, scale systems and processes across the organization, and ensure the successful delivery of multiple hardware programs simultaneously. You will build clarity across engineering and product teams, enable informed risk‑taking, and cultivate a high‑trust environment where teams do their best work.

• Lead and develop a team of 6~8 highly skilled and technical Software Engineering Program Managers.
• Define strategy and best practices for software program execution across the Block Hardware portfolio.
• Drive the delivery of complex hardware programs from concept through launch, including system integration, validation, and certification.
• Establish scalable operating mechanisms, tools, and communication standards that improve long‑term organizational efficiency.
• Foster a culture of clarity, accountability, and inclusive decision‑making across engineering, product, manufacturing, and operations.
• Partner closely with leadership across Hardware Engineering, Software Engineering, Product, Operations, Quality, Infrastructure, and Manufacturing to align priorities and streamline execution.
• Develop and grow team members through coaching, targeted development plans, and opportunities that expand scope and technical ownership.
• Identify and mitigate systemic risks early, ensuring cross‑functional partners maintain alignment on goals, timelines, and trade‑offs.
• Build strong relationships both internally and externally.
• Uphold and scale organizational norms around transparency, documentation, operational rigor, and continuous improvement.
• Model excellence in communication, technical depth, and leadership behaviors consistent with Block's manager expectations.

• BS degree in Computer Science or a related technical field; MS preferred.
• 10+ years of industry experience in software, firmware, or hardware‑software integrated systems.
• 10+ years of project/program management experience, including cross‑functional technical programs.
• 3+ years leading or managing technical program managers or equivalent technical teams.
• Strong technical background in software/firmware systems, embedded platforms, or consumer electronics.
• Experience with system‑level integration, validation processes, and manufacturing test interfaces.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to influence across engineering and product organizations.
• Demonstrated ability to define strategy, manage ambiguity, and lead teams through complex technical environments.
• Ability to travel internationally for engineering builds, vendor engagements, and program milestones.

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Every benefit we offer is designed with one goal: empowering you to do the best work of your career while building the life you want. Remote work, medical insurance, flexible time off, retirement savings plans, and modern family planning are just some of our offering. Check out our other benefits at Block.

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