Technical Innovations Product Manager for Monarch

About the position

The Technical Innovations Product Manager – Monarch leads the vision, strategy, and execution of next-generation technology products at APH, with an initial focus on the Monarch Tactile Display. This role is responsible for managing the full product lifecycle, from defining product vision and requirements to execution and continuous improvement. The position collaborates across internal teams, external partners, and the blindness and low vision community to deliver innovative, inclusive solutions that meet user needs and business objectives.

Responsibilities

• Product Strategy & Roadmap Development Lead the development and ongoing management of the Monarch hardware and software roadmap.
• Define product vision, use cases, and specifications in collaboration with cross-functional stakeholders.
• Manage multiple product lines and evolving priorities, ensuring inclusive design principles are embedded throughout.
• Analyze market trends, competitive landscape, and emerging technologies to inform product strategy.
• Identify and recommend new product opportunities based on research and user insights.
• Oversee product lifecycle management, including planning, development, launch, and iteration.
• Coordinate multiple projects across a diverse product portfolio using structured product management practices.
• Manage scope, timelines, and development costs to ensure successful delivery.
• Ensure compliance with APH safety and product standards.
• Make informed product decisions and adjustments based on evolving needs and feedback.
• Gather and prioritize product and customer requirements through research. methods such as surveys, focus groups, and field engagement.
• Build relationships with customers, educators, and subject matter experts in the blindness and low vision field.
• Analyze sales data and usage trends to inform product improvements and strategy.
• Collaborate with internal teams, external partners (including HumanWare), and consultants to support product development and testing.
• Coordinate field testing, expert reviews, and validation efforts.
• Work with international partners and distribution networks to expand global reach and product adoption.
• Partner with other product managers and subject matter experts to align across product lines.
• Ensure all development requirements for the Federal Disability Innovations Fund (DIF) grant are successfully delivered over the grant period.
• Represent APH at conferences, including presentations, product demonstrations, and trainings.
• Contribute to thought leadership through interviews, webinars, podcasts, blogs, and articles.
• Promote APH’s innovation and impact on a national and global scale.
• Perform additional responsibilities as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in technology or a related field.
• 3+ years’ experience in technology, preferably adaptive technology.
• Demonstrated experience in product management and product development lifecycle processes
• Experience leading cross-functional teams and managing complex projects
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to analyze data, market trends, and user needs to inform decisions
• Note: A combination of education, training, and experience may be considered when competency in the role is demonstrated.

Nice-to-haves

• Master’s degree in technology or a related field.
• Knowledge of braille code, braille translation, tactile graphics, and low vision user needs.
• Experience with assistive technologies such as screen readers (JAWS, NVDA) and braille translation software (BrailleBlaster, Duxbury)
• Familiarity with educational environments, curricula, and accessibility needs in classroom and virtual settings
• Experience with product development frameworks such as stage-gate processes
• Familiarity with bug tracking and backlog management tools (e.g., Jira, Redmine)
• Understanding of quality assurance processes and customer support practices
• Strong problem-solving skills and a user-centered mindset
• Interest in STEAM education and accessibility for blind and low vision learners
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Acrobat

Benefits

• Employer subsidized insurance (with family planning benefits).
• HSA and FSA options with company contribution.
• 4 weeks PTO + 11 paid holidays.
• 401(k) plan with company match and immediate vesting.
• Competitive dental and vision plans.
• Company-provided short-term disability and basic life insurance.
• Voluntary life and accidental death & disability insurance.
• Health and well-being initiatives.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness employer.
• Voluntary pet insurance.