Program Manager, Talon A

Description

The company runs reusable hypersonic flight tests. Its autonomous, air-launched test vehicles fly above Mach 5 in realistic conditions and produce data that customers use to validate system performance and move technologies toward deployment.

The company is hiring a Program Manager for a highly visible leadership role. You will help run complex, multi-disciplinary programs that cover design and modification, manufacturing, and flight test of a fleet of reusable hypersonic test vehicles, working directly with the Program Director.

The team includes engineers, manufacturing staff, and flight operations specialists. You will lead people across functions inside a strong matrixed structure and make hard program calls when not all the information is available.

Mojave Air & Spaceport is just outside Lancaster and Palmdale, about 95 miles north of Los Angeles.

Responsibilities

• Oversee several concurrent programs and own their cost, schedule, technical performance, and customer satisfaction.
• Push the adoption of stronger program management processes, tools, and practices.
• Make high-impact calls on program direction, resource allocation, and risk.
• Lead program forecasting and budgeting so financial plans are accurate and match company goals.
• Manage revenue recognition and contract invoicing so they follow accounting standards and billing happens on time.
• Track program financial performance, and raise variances and risks early.
• Work with the Program Director and executive leadership to set long-term program strategy, business plans, and growth opportunities.
• Lead the writing of new business proposals, capture strategies, and customer engagement plans.
• Find and pursue chances to expand programs, insert new technology, and improve processes.
• Act as the main contact for key customers, government agencies, and strategic partners.
• Negotiate complex contracts, manage senior customer relationships, and keep work aligned with customer goals and expectations.
• Oversee program risk, compliance, and governance, including classified program work and security requirements.
• Make sure all regulatory, contractual, and quality standards are met.
• Encourage a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Lead cross-functional teams from engineering, operations, procurement, finance, and legal so program work runs smoothly.
• Support team growth, including hiring, onboarding, training, and career progression.
• Build senior talent pipelines and succession plans for long-term organizational needs.
• Build engagement, collaboration, and high performance through clear communication and recognition.
• Run organizational development efforts that strengthen team skills and deliver business results.
• Give the Program Director, C-suite, and Board of Directors regular, detailed program status reports and executive briefings.
• Share program vision, goals, and progress with internal and external stakeholders.
• Travel within the country and occasionally abroad when programs or company goals require it.

Requirements

• Several years of progressive technical or program management experience, including at least 5 years in a senior leadership role in aerospace, defense, or high-technology.
• A strong sense of urgency and the ability to make tough decisions in a technical setting.
• Proven success running large, complex, multi-disciplinary programs with annual budgets above $100M.
• Extensive experience in aerospace program management, subcontracts and procurement, personnel management, aircraft systems, aircraft operations, launch vehicle integration, and ground systems.
• A track record of technical leadership, including overseeing subcontractors and prototype or low-rate production.
• Advanced risk management skills and experience with classified programs.
• Excellent facilitation, negotiation, and executive communication skills.
• Strong analytical, strategic, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to obtain and keep a TS (Top Secret) security clearance.
• Proven ability to lead in a fast-moving environment and drive organizational change.
• Required computer skills: advanced proficiency in MS Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint, plus MS Project and other advanced project management tools.
• Staff Program Manager level: a bachelor's degree (B.A. or B.S.) or higher in engineering, business management or administration, or a related field from an accredited institution, plus 10+ years of relevant program management experience, or an equivalent mix of education and experience.
• Preferred: experience working directly with government agencies, regulatory bodies, and major defense contractors.
• Preferred: air-launch, launch vehicle, or aircraft integration program experience.
• Preferred: experience operating large transport category or military aircraft.
• Preferred: PMP, PgMP, or an equivalent advanced project or program management certification.
• Preferred: experience running classified programs in secure environments.

Conditions

Base salary and level are set case by case, based on location, education, and the skills and experience shown in interviews.

Staff Program Manager base pay ranges from $134,000 to $198,000.

Work is based in Mojave, CA, and you must be onsite at least 80% of normal workdays.

The schedule is 9/80.

Flight test support may require off-nominal hours and weekends.

Travel is estimated at about 10% or less.

The area offers affordable living and is within a half day's drive of Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, and San Francisco.

Equal opportunity applies.

Benefits

• Healthcare, including medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage.
• Paid maternity and parental leave.
• A 401(k) plan where the company matches 50% of each dollar you contribute, up to $11,500.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• The role may include operating company vehicles as part of assigned duties.