Technical Program Manager

Technical Program Manager (TPM) Search PlatformAt AutoZone, we are on a journey to transform our Search Platform into a highly intelligent, scalable, and customer-centric discovery engine. As a Technical Program Manager (TPM) on the Search Platform team, you will lead the end-to-end execution of complex, cross-functional initiatives that power search, relevance, ranking, and AI-driven discovery experiences across our digital ecosystem. You will partner closely with Engineering, Product, Data Science, and Infrastructure teams to deliver high-impact search capabilities that improve customer engagement, conversion, and overall experience. This role requires a strong blend of technical depth, program leadership, and business alignment to translate strategic goals into scalable, production-ready solutions. A successful candidate will bring experience managing large-scale distributed systems, a solid understanding of modern search and AI-driven architectures, and a proven ability to drive execution, influence stakeholders, and deliver measurable outcomes in a fast-paced environment.ResponsibilitiesProgram LeadershipLead end-to-end execution of search platform initiatives from concept through productionDrive alignment across Product, Engineering, Data Science, and Infrastructure teamsManage multiple concurrent programs with clear prioritization, dependencies, and trade-offsEstablish and track program KPIs (e.g., latency, relevance, conversion, search success rate)Search & AI Strategy ExecutionPartner with leadership to execute the search roadmap across keyword, semantic, and AI-powered searchDrive adoption of modern capabilities such as vector search, embeddings, hybrid retrieval, and LLM-based rankingTranslate business problems into scalable search and discovery solutions aligned with customer and revenue goalsTechnical DeliveryWork closely with engineering teams on indexing pipelines, data ingestion, query processing, and ranking systemsEnsure solutions meet enterprise standards for scalability, resiliency, performance, and cost efficiencyAlign architecture and design decisions with enterprise and platform standardsData-Driven OptimizationDefine, monitor, and improve key search metrics (e.g., search success rate, zero-result rate, CTR, latency)Lead experimentation frameworks including A/B testing and relevance tuningUse data insights to prioritize enhancements and quantify business impactStakeholder ManagementBuild strong, trusted relationships with business, product, and technology leadersCommunicate program status, risks, and outcomes clearly to senior leadershipAct as the bridge between technical teams and business stakeholders, enabling informed decision-makingOperational ExcellenceEstablish scalable program governance, playbooks, and delivery frameworksIdentify risks, dependencies, and bottlenecks early; drive mitigation and resolutionChampion Agile, SDLC, and DevOps best practices across teamsCoordinate across internal teams and external vendors/partners as neededQualifications• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or a related field required; Master's degree preferred• Minimum of 10 – 15 years of total experience in technology, with at least 5 – 7 years in Technical Program Management or leading large-scale, cross-functional initiatives• Proven experience delivering programs for distributed systems, preferably in Search, Recommendations, or Data Platforms• Strong understanding of search systems, including indexing, query processing, and ranking; experience with platforms such as Elasticsearch, Apache Solr, or similar technologies is highly desirable• Experience with microservices, APIs, and cloud-native architectures (AWS, Azure, or GCP); familiarity with MACH principles is a plus• Experience working with Data Science / ML teams, including experimentation (A/B testing), model lifecycle, and data-driven optimization• Strong experience in Agile methodologies (Scrum / Kanban / SAFe) and program governance frameworks• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, problem-solving, and analytical skills; ability to influence without direct authority• Experience managing program financials, resource planning, and vendor/partner relationships is a plus• Strong ownership mindset, high sense of urgency, and ability to operate effectively in ambiguous, fast-paced environments• Exposure to AI/ML-driven search, semantic search, vector databases, and LLM-based retrieval systems is highly desirableSince opening our first store in 1979, AutoZone has grown into a leading retailer and distributor of automotive parts and accessories across the Americas. Our customer-first mindset and commitment to Going the Extra Mile define who we are, for both our customers and AutoZoners. Working at AutoZone means being part of a team that values dedication, teamwork, and growth. Whether you're helping customers or building your career, we provide tools and support to help you succeed and drive your future.Benefits at AutoZone AutoZone offers thoughtful benefits programs with one-on-one benefits guidance designed to improve AutoZoners' physical, mental and financial well-being. All AutoZoners (Full-Time and Part-Time):Competitive payUnrivaled company cultureMedical, dental and vision plansExclusive discounts and perks, including an AutoZone in-store discount401(k) with company match and Stock Purchase PlanAutoZoners Living Well Program for free mental health supportOpportunities for career growthAdditional Benefits for Full-Time AutoZoners:Paid time offLife, and short- and long-term disability insurance optionsHealth Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts with wellness rewardsTuition reimbursementMinimum age requirements may apply. Eligibility and waiting period requirements may apply; benefits for AutoZoners in Puerto Rico, Hawaii, or the U.S. Virgin Islands may differ. Learn more about all that AutoZone has to offer at Careers.AutoZone.com. We proudly support Veterans, Active-duty Service Members, Reservists, National Guard and Military Families. Your experience is highly valued, and we encourage you to apply to join our team. Online Application: An online application is required. Click the Apply button to complete your application. For step-by-step instructions on how to apply visit careers.autozone.com/candidateresources. AutoZone, and its subsidiary, ALLDATA are equal opportunity employers. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status, or any other legally protected categories.