1

Aerospace Program Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Experience with technical aerospace leadership, including working with subcontractors * Experience with prototype manufacturing or low-rate production * Experience with risk management * Facilitation ...

Technical Program Manager

El Segundo, CA ยท On-site

$137K - $177K/yr

Lead planning, coordination, and execution of aerospace engineering and hardware development projects * Develop and maintain project schedules, milestones, action trackers, and program status ...

Technical Program Manager

El Segundo, CA

$137K - $177K/yr

Lead planning, coordination, and execution of aerospace engineering and hardware development projects * Develop and maintain project schedules, milestones, action trackers, and program status ...

Technical Program Manager

El Segundo, CA ยท On-site

$137K - $177K/yr

Lead planning, coordination, and execution of aerospace engineering and hardware development projects * Develop and maintain project schedules, milestones, action trackers, and program status ...

Experience with technical aerospace leadership, including working with subcontractors * Experience ... Staff Program Manager ($157,000-$206,000): Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Science (BS) or higher in a ...

Program Manager, Host Vehicle

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

$140K - $240K/yr

Manage complex situations, delegate authority, lead and inspire your team, drive innovative ... Experience with customer interfacing and National Security aerospace programs * Ability to ...

Frontier Aerospace Corporation conceptualizes, designs, proves, and additively manufactures in ... Program Manager Come join our growing team where you will get to make a difference daily by ...

... in aerospace, biosecurity, and defense. We specialize in systems engineering, advanced analytics ... BryceTech has an immediate opening for a Program Manager to support the Space Systems Command ...

... in aerospace, biosecurity, and defense. We specialize in systems engineering, advanced analytics ... BryceTech has an immediate opening for a Program Manager to support the Space Systems Command ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Aerospace Program Manager information

See California salary details

$38K

$106.1K

$154.9K

How much do aerospace program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerospace program manager in California is $106,053.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,500.00 and $130,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Aerospace Program Managers?

Aerospace Program Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing and coordinating complex aerospace projects, such as the development of aircraft, spacecraft, or related systems. They manage teams, budgets, schedules, and ensure that project goals align with organizational objectives and industry regulations. Their role involves risk assessment, resource allocation, stakeholder communication, and ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget. Aerospace Program Managers often work closely with engineers, clients, and government agencies to deliver successful aerospace programs.

What is the difference between Aerospace Program Manager vs Aerospace Project Engineer?

AspectAerospace Program ManagerAerospace Project Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in aerospace engineering, project management certificationsBachelor's or higher in aerospace engineering, technical certifications
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple projects, manages teams, strategic planningFocuses on technical design, development, and testing of specific projects
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in aerospace companies, defense contractors, space agenciesCommon in aerospace firms, research labs, manufacturing

The Aerospace Program Manager primarily oversees multiple projects, manages teams, and handles strategic planning, while the Aerospace Project Engineer focuses on technical design, development, and testing of specific aerospace projects. Both roles require engineering backgrounds, but the Program Manager emphasizes leadership and coordination, whereas the Project Engineer concentrates on technical execution.

Is being a TPM stressful?

Being a Technical Program Manager (TPM) can be stressful due to managing complex projects, tight deadlines, and coordinating multiple teams. The role often requires strong organizational skills, problem-solving, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations, especially in fast-paced industries like aerospace or technology.

What is the highest paying job in aerospace?

In aerospace, executive roles such as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) or Vice President of Engineering tend to be the highest paying positions, often earning six-figure salaries. Senior aerospace engineers with specialized skills, such as systems integration or propulsion, can also command high compensation, especially with advanced certifications and experience.

What does a program manager do in aerospace?

An aerospace program manager oversees the planning, execution, and delivery of aerospace projects, ensuring they meet technical specifications, budgets, and schedules. They coordinate between engineering teams, suppliers, and stakeholders, often using project management tools and methodologies to track progress and mitigate risks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aerospace Program Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aerospace Program Manager, you need a background in engineering or a related technical field, strong project management experience, and typically a relevant degree such as aerospace engineering or business management. Familiarity with project management software (like MS Project), industry regulations, and certifications such as PMP or Six Sigma are highly valued. Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help in effectively guiding cross-functional teams and managing complex programs. These skills and qualities are critical for ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and in compliance with stringent safety and quality standards.

How do Aerospace Program Managers typically collaborate with engineering and manufacturing teams during a project lifecycle?

Aerospace Program Managers play a central role in coordinating efforts between engineering, manufacturing, and other cross-functional teams. They facilitate regular meetings to align project goals, timelines, and technical requirements, ensuring that all teams are informed of changes or challenges. Effective communication and conflict resolution skills are essential, as managers often bridge gaps between technical and operational perspectives. They also monitor progress against milestones and adjust plans as necessary to meet quality and safety standards, while keeping stakeholders updated throughout the project.

Can I make 100k as a project manager?

An Aerospace Program Manager can earn a salary of $100,000 or more, especially with significant experience, certifications like PMP, and working in high-cost-of-living areas or for large organizations. Salaries vary based on industry, location, and project complexity, but reaching six figures is common for experienced managers in this field.
What are popular job titles related to Aerospace Program Manager jobs in California? For Aerospace Program Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Aerospace Program Manager jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Aerospace Program Manager jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Aerospace Program Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Aerospace Program Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Aerospace Program Manager job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $106,053 per year, or $51 per hour.
Program Manager, Aerospace - 080QE

Program Manager, Aerospace - 080QE

Quartus Engineering

San Diego, CA โ€ข Hybrid

$126K - $205K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

About Quartus

Quartus Engineering Incorporated (www.quartus.com) is a leading provider of engineering services and integrated hardware solutions for a wide range of clients and industries. We employ advanced computer-aided engineering tools in the areas of optics, structural, thermal, and coupled analyses. We couple our engineering analysis capabilities with design, prototype, integration and test capabilities to create solutions for our clients that are of extraordinary value.

About Aerospace Program Management

Development of custom optical systems for aerospace applications is a core business area for Quartus. Our work includes spaceborne, airborne, and ground-based systems for imaging, spectrography, lasercom, LiDAR, energy transfer, and other applications. Typical development processes start with mission objectives definition, progresses through all stages of design and analysis, and concludes with hardware build and test. Our clients are very diverse - from well-established large government organizations such as NASA to agile "new space" start-ups. We pride ourselves on our ability to find common language with diverse groups of people and to develop new advanced technical systems while meeting the budget and schedule that each particular program can sustain. Our team includes optical, opto-mechanical, mechanical, electrical, and software engineers working in a highly collaborative environment where communication and team ethics are key.

What will you do?

As a Program Manager in our San Diego office, you will lead project teams and ensure successful execution of your programs. As business needs dictate, you will supervise and drive the successful execution of complex engineering programs from conception to completion as an individual contributor.

Essential Job Functions:

·       Program Leadership:

o   Manage programs from concept to completion, ensuring that engineering technical approach, quality/customer expectations, budgetary, and timeline objectives are met

o   May be a key technical contributor on project work. For example, perform engineering tasks such as design, analysis, procurement, hardware build and test, etc.

·       Resource Management:

o   Work closely with resource managers and team leads to allocate resources efficiently, optimizing utilization across projects while maintaining a high level of employee engagement

·       Risk Assessment and Mitigation:

o   Identify potential risks and challenges associated with projects and programs, developing comprehensive risk management plans to proactively address and mitigate these issues

·       Client Engagement:

o   Establish and maintain strong relationships with key clients, acting as a trusted advisor and understanding their unique requirements.

o   Collaborate with the sales team to identify opportunities for business expansion for existing and new customers, and ensure high levels of customer satisfaction

·       Process Improvement:

o   Champion a culture of continuous improvement by evaluating and enhancing program management methodologies, tools, and processes

·       Collaboration and Communication:

o   Foster a collaborative and transparent work environment, encouraging effective communication and knowledge sharing across project teams and departments

Location

Position is based in San Diego, CA with a hybrid schedule.*

* The hybrid work arrangement is subject to change based on business needs including but not limited to training, performance, or other operational requirements. Any physical location change may impact future employment.

What are we looking for?

  • BS in engineering or other STEM related field
  • 8+ years of experience
  • Experience with sensor payload system development
  • Must be a US Person (US Citizen or US Permanent Resident)

Preferred Qualifications:

·       Active DoD Secret or Top Secret Clearance

·       DoD related component systems development through low rate initial production

Compensation and Benefits

Program Manager pay range: $126,070 – $205,997*

*This range represents base pay. In addition, you may be eligible for additional benefits and compensation.

Referral eligibility: Tier 2

Quartus is an equal opportunity employer, and we are committed to employing a diverse workforce, including, but not limited to, minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and protected veterans. Quartus provides comprehensive benefits including competitive salary, discretionary performance-based bonus, employee stock ownership plan, medical, dental, vision, and 401k plan with company match.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME