Hardware Operations NPI & Lifecycle Lead

Object First, now an independent business unit of Veeam, builds secure, simple, and powerful backup storage for Veeam customers, engineered with Absolute Immutability to deliver true ransomware-proof protection. Our Zero Access architecture ensures no one can alter or delete backup data, providing cyber resilience by design. We are a fast-growing team driven by innovation, clarity, and meaningful impact.

Are you looking for a role where you can make a real impact by working with meaningful, high-performance technology? Join a fast-growing, innovative-driven team where clarity, ownership, and collaboration truly matter.

Please note: the candidate must be able to work in EST or CST time zones.

Position Overview:

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Hardware Operations NPI & Lifecycle Lead to own and drive hardware readiness from new product introduction through post launch lifecycle support. This is an individual contributor role responsible for coordinating NPI activities, managing hardware configuration & BOM changes and ensuring operational readiness across teams.

The ideal candidate is hands-on and highly organized with a strong ownership mindset and the ability to take initiative and drive execution across teams in a fast-paced, high growth environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Hardware NPI Coordination

• Own coordination and tracking of hardware New Product Introduction (NPI) activities across engineering, product, marketing, operations, vendors, and support teams


• Maintain and drive NPI checklists, timelines and deliverables to ensure launch readiness


• Identify risks, track open items and proactively drive resolution across teams


• Support smooth hardware transitions from development to production and deployment

BOM & Lifecycle Management

• Own and maintain hardware Bill of Materials (BOM), ensuring accuracy, completeness and alignment


• Manage BOM updates and change control process, including coordination of approvals and communication of changes


• Track BOM‑related cost changes and provide visibility into drivers to support leadership decision‑making


• Support lifecycle transitions including product updates, component changes and end of life (EOL) planning

Hardware Validation & Asset Tracking

• Review incoming hardware asset reports to confirm new firmware versions are tested and documented prior to deployment


• Coordinate hardware validation and test cycles to support successful launches

Support & Quality Coordination

• Act as a key point of contact for hardware-related support issues, coordinating with internal teams and vendors as needed


• Track hardware issues, returns and warranty trends to identify patterns and escalate risks


• Support vendor returns (RMA) and refurbishment workflows

Lifecycle Programs & Inventory Support

• Support lifecycle-related programs such as refurbishment, demo hardware tracking, and spare parts coordination


• Maintain clear and accurate documentation of hardware configurations and lifecycle processes


• Assist with inventory tracking and alignment related to lifecycle transitions

Metrics & Reporting 

• Track and report on key lifecycle and NPI metrics, including readiness, post-launch performance, and quality trends


• Monitor indicators such as RMAs, warranty usage and cost drivers


• Prepare summaries and insights to support cross functional visibility and decision making

Process Improvement

• Contribute to additional initiatives as assigned, including overall team SOP documentation creation, process standardization, and cross‑functional continuous improvement efforts

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Operations, Engineering, Business, or equivalent relevant work experience


• 2+ years of experience in hardware operations, NPI coordination, lifecycle management program/project management or similar roles


• Familiarity with hardware components, systems configurations and validation workflows


• Strong organizational and analytical skills with attention to detail


• Advanced Excel expertise required (pivot tables, complex formulas, data modeling, and reporting)


• Strong project management capabilities, including ownership of projects from initiation through completion


• Ability to operate independently and take ownership of assigned areas


• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to work cross-functionally

Preferred

• Experience owning or supporting BOM management and hardware cost tracking


• Familiarity with hardware quality metrics, warranty analysis, and RMA processes


• Exposure to data center hardware, storage systems, or server platforms


• Knowledge of regulatory and compliance standards (RoHS, REACH, etc.)

Key Competencies

• Ownership and accountability mindset


• Strong cross‑functional collaboration


• Data‑driven and detail oriented


• Process oriented with continuous improvement mindset


• Ability to balance speed, accuracy, and flexibility

Why Join Object First

• High-growth global IT company


• Competitive benefits (medical, dental, vision from day one, 401(k))


• Paid annual leave & unlimited flexible PTO


• Flexible, remote-friendly work setup


• Modern equipment provided


• Growth and development opportunities

Equal Opportunity & Data Privacy

Object First is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and encourage diversity in our teams and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. By applying for this position, you consent to the processing of your personal data for recruitment purposes, in accordance with applicable data protection laws and Object First's privacy practices. All candidate information will be treated with strict confidentiality throughout the process.

Make an Impact with Us

If you're looking to make a real impact and grow alongside a company that builds secure, simple, and powerful technology, Object First is the place for you. Join us and take your career to the next level.