Project Manager - Innovation Team

Job Description Project Manager
Position DetailsPosition: Project Manager Innovation TeamLocation: BangaloreExperience: 8 to 10 years (preferred)Start Date: ImmediateTravel Requirement: 25 days as neededEducational Background: Bachelors degree in Mechanical, Automobile, or Manufacturing EngineeringAbout SELCO FoundationSELCO Foundation is a not-for-profit, open-source organization committed to field-based R&D and building robust ecosystems to deploy clean energy solutions that alleviate poverty in tribal, rural, and urban underserved areas. The organization collaborates with grassroots practitioners, energy entrepreneurs, NGOs, and educational institutions to bridge sustainable energy access with holistic poverty eradication strategies.Working across diverse verticals such as energy access, healthcare, livelihoods, and enterprise development, SELCO Foundation aims to integrate sustainable energy into various facets of development to catalyze long-term impact.Innovation at SELCOSELCOs Innovation vertical is dedicated to addressing the technology gaps faced by underserved communities. We focus on the hands-on research, design, development, and incubation of sustainable technologies tailored to the unique needs of vulnerable populations. Our approach is grounded in real-world implementation and systemic problem-solving, rather than isolated product innovation.About the RoleAs a Project Manager - Innovation, you will play a pivotal role in evaluating existing technologies, retrofitting products, and developing new prototypes to support underserved communities. This position demands a strong foundation in design thinking, product development, and manufacturability, as well as the ability to work collaboratively across diverse teams and contexts.You will be working closely with the Innovation team, which includes in-house product/industrial designers and rotating interns, and collaborate with program teams such as Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Micro-Business, Incubation, PID, and Outreach.Key ResponsibilitiesTechnology & Product Development

• Conduct in-depth research and benchmarking of existing technologies relevant to specific livelihood activities.
• Define evaluation parameters and develop guidelines for performance assessment of machines and products.
• Retrofit and improve existing technologies to enhance efficiency, usability, and relevance to target users.
• Engage with fabricators, manufacturers, vendors, and technology partners to co-develop products from prototyping to production.
• Ensure alignment of technology with user needs, field conditions, and manufacturability standards.

Team & Cross-functional Engagement

• Collaborate with cross-sector program teams to identify and define technology needs.
• Facilitate ideation and brainstorming sessions within the Innovation team.
• Support the creation of frameworks and documentation to guide future innovations.

Requirements
8 to 10 years of relevant experience in product development or related fields. Exposure to renewable energy and the livelihood sector is highly desirable. Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. Strong communication and stakeholder management skills. Willingness to travel to remote locations and participate in field research and surveys. Self-starter with a strong work ethic, collaborative mindset, and high integrity. Proven expertise in product design, planning, management, development, manufacturing processes. Strong understanding of ergonomics, design thinking, and prototyping methodologies.¢ Experience in product development planning, vendor development, procurement, and outsourcing processes.QualificationsBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automobile Engineering, or Manufacturing Engineering.

How to Apply