Senior Product Manager - Hardware
Mill
Mill is all about answering a simple question: how can we prevent waste? Less waste can save time, money, energy, maybe even our planet. And there’s no better place to start than food. Food waste is one of the most solvable climate problems facing us today. Plus, our trash really stinks. It’s gross, heavy, and our least favorite chore. At Mill we are striving to build a better environment for all, as we take on climate and kitchen change.
About the Role
We're seeking an experienced Senior Product Manager to lead a next generation hardware initiative all the way to launch. This role requires deep hardware product development experience and a proven track record of bringing complex mechanical/electrical products to market. You'll interface between engineering disciplines, operations, GTM, finance, and executive leadership. With ownership over the full product lifecycle, you'll be responsible for transforming our innovative technology into a robust solution that delivers exceptional value to customers advancing Mill's sustainability mission.
Key Responsibilities
- Drive cross-functional hardware development through all phases: product definition, concept validation, engineering development, pilot testing, and scale-up
- Synthesize customer requirements from clients into clear product specifications and priorities
- Develop detailed go-to-market strategies with specific focus on unit economics, operational efficiencies, and environmental impact
- Define and track key performance metrics for both product development and in-market performance
- Partner deeply with mechanical, electrical, systems, firmware engineering teams to overcome technical challenges and maintain development momentum
- Lead field tests and pilot deployments, synthesizing real-world feedback into product improvements
- Champion for cost, user experience, serviceability, and reliability optimization
- Create compelling business cases to secure resources and alignment for product initiatives
- Coordinate with supply chain, manufacturing, and service teams to ensure operational readiness
Qualifications
- 8+ years of product management experience with at least 3 years focused on large and complex hardware products
- Demonstrated success bringing complex electromechanical products from concept through launch
- Strong technical background with understanding of mechanical engineering, electrical systems, thermal processes, and firmware integration
- Experience managing customer relationships and translating their requirements into product features
- Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams in a fast-paced hardware development environment
- Deep understanding of manufacturing processes, supply chain considerations, and design for cost principles
- Excellent analytical skills with ability to develop detailed unit economics models and make data-driven decisions
- Outstanding communication skills with ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
Preferred Qualifications
- 10-15 years of product management experience with at least 5 years focused on hardware products
- Experience leading IoT or connected hardware products with both physical and digital components
- Experience with early-stage hardware startups and new product category creation
- Track record of securing pilot programs with customers
- Advanced degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related technical field
The estimated base salary range for this position is $200k to $252k, which does not include the value of benefits or a potential equity grant. A wide range of factors are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to skill sets, market conditions, experience and training, licensure and certifications, and business and organizational needs.