As a Director of Software Project Management in our (Software Development and MDS) R&D organization, you will lead the planning and execution of complex, multi-disciplinary software development programs across global development centers in a matrix organization. These programs span embedded software for medical devices and Software as a Medical Device (SaMD), requiring deep collaboration with cross-functional teams including systems engineering, regulatory, clinical, and quality. 

You will serve as the strategic and operational leader for software project delivery, ensuring alignment with business objectives, regulatory compliance, and patient safety. Your role will be pivotal in driving innovation, managing risk, and delivering high-quality software solutions that meet global Alcon (surgical and vision care) needs.  This role is in Lake Forest, CA and a typical day would include:

Program Leadership & Execution Lead end-to-end software development programs for medical devices and SaMD/SiMD, from concept through commercialization. Ensure delivery of high-quality, compliant software on time and within scope. 

Global Project Management Coordinate deliverables across geographically distributed teams. Manage dependencies, risks, and resource allocation across global R&D centers. 

Stakeholder Engagement Act as the primary liaison between technical teams and non-technical stakeholders (Commercial, Quality, Finance, etc.). Translate complex technical concepts into clear business terms and ensure alignment across product, regulatory, and commercial teams. 

Agile & Regulatory Excellence Champion Agile methodologies while ensuring adherence to medical device software standards (e.g., IEC 62304, ISO 13485, ISO 14971). Drive continuous improvement in project execution and compliance. 

Strategic Planning & Road mapping Collaborate with ATPLs/Ms and R&D leadership to define software roadmaps.

Prioritize features based on clinical value, technical feasibility, and regulatory impact. 

Team Leadership & Development Mentor and guide software project managers and engineers. Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and cross-functional collaboration. 

Communication & Reporting Provide transparent and proactive updates to executive leadership. Own program dashboards, KPIs, and risk mitigation strategies. 

What You’ll Bring to Alcon:

Bachelor’s Degree or Equivalent years of directly related experience (or high school +18 yrs; Assoc.+14 yrs; M.S.+7 yrs; PhD+6 yrs) 

The ability to fluently read, write, understand and communicate in English 

10 Years of Relevant Experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities. 

Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and organizational skills. 

Deep understanding of Agile, Waterfall, and hybrid development models in regulated environments. 

PMP Certification.

Master’s Degree.

How You Can Thrive at Alcon:

Join Alcon’s mission to provide outstanding, innovative products and solutions to improve sight, improve lives, and grow your career!

•    Alcon provides robust benefits package including health, life, retirement, flexible time off, and much more!

Travel Requirements: up to 20%

Relocation assistance: Yes

Sponsorship available: No

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Alcon is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify. Alcon takes pride in maintaining a diverse environment and our policies are not to discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. Alcon is also committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an email to alcon.recruitment@alcon.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.