About this role
The day-to-day work for the Sr. Supply & Demand Manager involves architecting and managing the global supply and demand balance for autonomous vehicles and their sensor suites. This role requires aligning commercial rollout targets, fleet maintenance needs, and manufacturing capacities across domestic and international markets. A key function is leading partners in executing build plans to meet target schedules and allocating supply for global distribution. Furthermore, the manager facilitates cross-functional Sales & Operations Planning cycles, reconciling variances and building executive consensus on critical build and allocation trade-offs. The position also involves defining requirements for and establishing foundational internal planning systems by partnering with engineering and data teams, often leveraging AI-assisted tools to automate planning workflows.
This role exists to ensure that Waymo's manufacturing and logistics capabilities keep pace with the growing demand for its autonomous driving technology. It is central to making the technology of the future a reality by ensuring that components and vehicles are built to specification and delivered on time. The manager will also take end-to-end ownership of planning and distribution workflows for sensors, optimizing distribution channels for both current and future sensor generations.
Candidates who thrive in complex, cross-functional environments and possess strong analytical capabilities would perform well in this position. The ideal candidate is adept at translating complex data into actionable analysis while possessing the communication skills necessary to drive consensus among engineering, sales, and operations teams.
What you will do
- Architect and run the global demand and supply balance for autonomous vehicles and sensor suites, aligning commercial rollout targets with manufacturing and logistics capacities.
- Lead partners in executing build plans to meet target schedules and appropriately allocate supply for global distribution.
- Facilitate cross-functional Sales & Operations Planning across Hardware to reconcile variances and build executive consensus on build/allocation trade-offs.
- Define requirements for and partner with engineering and data teams to establish foundational internal planning systems.
- Leverage AI-assisted tools, scripting, and automated models to automate repetitive planning workflows.
- Establish and scale new operational planning capabilities for autonomous vehicle distribution globally, aligning dynamically with city-level demand.
- Take end-to-end ownership of planning, allocation, and forward and reverse distribution workflows for current-generation sensors.
What you need
- A Bachelor of Science degree in Supply Chain Management, Industrial Engineering, Operations Research, Business, Data Analytics, or an equivalent practical experience is required.
- Proven work experience as a Demand Planner across end-to-end supply chain functions is necessary.
- A solid understanding of inventory management practices, procurement, allocation, and forecasting procedures is essential.
- Strong analytical skills are needed to translate complex data into high-level analysis effectively.
- Demonstrated experience utilizing AI/ML tools, advanced predictive models, or automated forecasting algorithms to improve demand sensing and planning accuracy.
- Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, including strong presentation abilities, are required for cross-functional collaboration.
- Experience with MRP/ERP architectures, inventory optimization practices, and engineering lifecycle management is preferred.
Nice to have
- Master’s degree or MBA
- Direct experience in hardware technology, autonomous vehicles, robotics, or complex consumer electronics manufacturing
- In-depth knowledge of MRP/ERP architectures
Benefits
- Discretionary annual bonus program
- Equity incentive plan
- Generous Company benefits program
Skills and tech stack
Questions candidates ask
What is the expected salary range for this role?
The expected base salary range for this full-time position across US locations is listed as $200,000 — $247,000 USD. Actual starting pay will depend on job-related factors such as work location, experience, and skill level.
What is the work structure like?
This role follows a hybrid work schedule. The position requires 10-15% periodic domestic and international travel to contract manufacturing sites and Waymo operational locations as required.
What kind of tools are used in the planning process?
The role involves leveraging AI-assisted tools, scripting, and automated models to automate repetitive planning workflows. Candidates should also have experience with MRP/ERP architectures.
How does the team structure support this role?
The manager will report directly to the Head of Vehicle/SDS Supply Planning & Materials Ops. The role requires active collaboration with Waymo engineering teams and external suppliers and partners.