Principal Product Manager

Who We Are 

As science and technology increasingly shape our lives, the Museum of Science strives to equip and inspire everyone to use science for the global good while keeping up with the pace of change.   Among the world’s largest science centers and New England’s most attended cultural institution, we engage nearly five million people a year – at Science Park and in museums around the world, in classrooms, and online.

The Museum’s singular location connecting Boston and Cambridge puts us at the junction of some of the world’s most influential academic institutions and industries, local and state government, schools, and the public. Trusted by each sector, we are ideally positioned to convene, inspire, and create meaningful experiences for all.  Come join us on our mission to inspire a lifelong love of science in everyone and living our vision for a world where science belongs to each of us for the good of all of us.

Why We Need You

We are seeking a Principal Product Manager to provide strategic leadership across our digital product portfolio, building on the strong foundation established within our growing Product team. This role is critical in shaping product direction, driving high-impact initiatives, and serving as a second-in-command to the Director of Product—ensuring continuity, clarity, and momentum across the team.

This position reflects the need for a proven leader who can independently guide complex product decisions, mentor others, and elevate product management practices across the organization.

What You’ll Accomplish

• Define and drive the product strategy for key digital platforms, including the Museum’s website and audience-facing experiences, ensuring alignment with organizational priorities and measurable outcomes.
• Lead complex, cross-functional initiatives from concept through execution, making independent strategic decisions that balance user needs, business goals, and technical considerations.
• Serve as a trusted partner to senior stakeholders across Marketing, Advancement, Education, and Technology, aligning priorities and driving clarity in decision-making across departments.
• Mentor and develop product talent, including direct support of junior team members and interns, fostering a culture of ownership, accountability, and growth.
• Establish and refine product management practices, including roadmap planning, prioritization frameworks, and outcome-based measurement, strengthening the overall effectiveness of the Product function.
• Drive data-informed decision-making by defining success metrics, analyzing product performance, and iterating on solutions to improve audience engagement and operational efficiency.

 

What We’re Looking For (Competencies)

• Strategic Thinking and Decision Making: Demonstrates the ability to independently define product direction and make high-quality, strategic decisions in complex environments. Applies sound judgment to prioritize initiatives that deliver meaningful organizational impact.
• Leadership and Influence: Acts as a leader within the Product team and across the organization, influencing without authority and building alignment among diverse stakeholders. Supports team development through mentorship and guidance.
• Collaboration and Communication: Effectively translates product strategy into clear, actionable plans and communicates progress, trade-offs, and outcomes to both technical and non-technical audiences, including senior leadership.
• Creativity and Innovation: Brings forward thoughtful, innovative approaches to solving problems and improving digital experiences. Embraces experimentation and continuously seeks opportunities to enhance how audiences engage with the Museum.
• Resilience and Adaptability: Thrives in an evolving environment, navigating ambiguity and shifting priorities with a steady, solutions-oriented mindset while maintaining focus on outcomes.

Required Qualifications:  

• Proven experience leading digital product initiatives, particularly related to web platforms and audience engagement.
• Demonstrated ability to operate independently in defining product strategy and executing complex initiatives.
• Experience working across cross-functional teams, including Marketing, Engineering, and business stakeholders.
• Strong analytical mindset with experience using data to inform decisions and measure impact.
• Familiarity with product management practices such as Agile methodologies, backlog management, and roadmap planning.
• Experience mentoring or supporting the development of others, including junior team members or interns

 

How We Work-Our Values 

Mission-Focused: We inspire a lifelong love of science in everyone. 

Audience-Driven: Everything we do begins with the people we serve.

Innovative: We are curious, take smart risks, share responsibility, and own outcomes.

Generous: We offer time and energy towards common goals.