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Aviation Program Manager Jobs in Wichita, KS (NOW HIRING)

In addition to that, you manage hundreds of personnel, making this a job that requires a level of ... Navy College Program * VOLED Assistance Center * VOLED Region Advisors * Navy War College (NWC)

United States Aviation Underwriters, Inc. (USAU) manages an insurance pool of member companies ... programs, accept or reject applications, negotiate pricing and coverage and perform various ...

2027 Internship - Project Manager Defense

Wichita, KS ยท On-site

$26K - $31K/yr

Interns will work directly with the Product/Program Manager and Director for programs in support of ... Pursuing Bachelor's degree in Business Management, Aviation, Aircraft Management, Engineering ...

Showing results 21-40

Aviation Program Manager information

See Wichita, KS salary details

$57.3K

$85.6K

$115.4K

How much do aviation program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for aviation program manager in Wichita, KS is $85,610.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,700.00 and $89,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aviation program manager?

Aviation Program Managers are professionals responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing aviation-related projects or programs within organizations such as airports, airlines, or government agencies. Their duties often include managing budgets, ensuring regulatory compliance, coordinating teams, and achieving project milestones. They play a critical role in ensuring that aviation operations run smoothly, safely, and efficiently, often acting as the link between technical teams, management, and stakeholders. Strong leadership, organizational skills, and knowledge of aviation regulations are essential for this role.

What does an aviation program manager do?

An aviation program manager is supposed to plan projects, assess the cost and schedule, find solutions to engineering problems, and oversee the project from beginning until final delivery. Your duties as an aviation program manager require you to understand many different aspects of aviation and aerospace engineering. You must also be well-versed in the business and revenue side of aviation, as well as the regulations around air transport. As a program manager, your responsibilities also include recruiting teams for projects, managing deadlines and schedules, reviewing technical specifications, and ensuring that your team finishes the deliverables on time.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aviation program manager?

To thrive as an Aviation Program Manager, you need expertise in project management, aviation regulations, and operations, often supported by a relevant degree and certifications like PMP or Six Sigma. Familiarity with aviation management software, risk assessment tools, and compliance systems is typically required. Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills help coordinate teams and manage complex projects effectively. These skills ensure safe, compliant, and efficient execution of aviation programs in a highly regulated and dynamic environment.

What are some common challenges faced by aviation program managers, and how can they be addressed?

Aviation Program Managers often encounter challenges such as managing complex stakeholder expectations, ensuring regulatory compliance, and coordinating cross-functional teams on tight deadlines. To address these, effective communication, proactive risk management, and maintaining up-to-date knowledge of aviation regulations are essential. Building strong relationships with regulatory agencies and fostering a collaborative team environment can also help navigate these challenges smoothly.

What is the difference between Aviation Program Manager vs Aviation Project Coordinator?

AspectAviation Program ManagerAviation Project Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in aviation, engineering, or related field; certifications like PMP or FAA licenses are commonUsually requires a bachelor's degree; certifications are less common but may include project management or aviation safety
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple projects and programs within airlines, airports, or aerospace companiesSupports specific projects, coordinating tasks and schedules within larger programs
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by airlines, aerospace firms, and government agencies managing large-scale aviation initiativesFound in similar settings, focusing on supporting project execution in aviation organizations

The Aviation Program Manager focuses on overseeing multiple aviation projects and strategic initiatives, requiring broader management skills. In contrast, the Aviation Project Coordinator handles specific project tasks, supporting the program's success. Both roles are essential in aviation organizations but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Aviation Program Manager jobs in Wichita, KS?

For Aviation Program Manager jobs in Wichita, KS, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Aviation Program Manager jobs in Wichita, KS look for?

The top searched job categories for Aviation Program Manager jobs in Wichita, KS are:

Infographic showing various Aviation Program Manager job openings in Wichita, KS as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $85,610 per year, or $41.2 per hour.

IPDT Leader, Bombardier Defense -13217

PDS Tech Commercial

Wichita, KS โ€ข On-site

$60 - $74/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Lead all phases of defense aviation program development from concept through customer delivery.

  • Coordinate and harmonize activities across engineering, operations, finance, supply chain, certification, and customer-facing teams.

  • Develop and oversee program schedules, milestones, budgets, forecasts, and deliverables, and monitor program performance.


Job description

Lead the Mission. Drive Innovation. Shape the Future of Defense Aviation.
Join PDS Tech Commercial as an IPDT Leader
PDS Tech Commercial is seeking an experienced IPDT Leader to join us in Wichita, KS, and help lead the development of next-generation defense aviation programs.
This is a unique opportunity for a strategic aerospace leader who thrives in complex, fast-paced environments and enjoys bringing cross-functional teams together to deliver exceptional results. You'll play a pivotal role in guiding program development from concept through customer delivery, ensuring alignment across technical, operational, financial, and customer requirements.
If you're passionate about aerospace innovation, program leadership, and influencing high-impact defense initiatives, this growth-focused opportunity could be your next career move.
Position: IPDT Leader
Location: Wichita, KS
Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time
Schedule: Monday-Friday, Traditional Business Hours
Work Arrangement: Hybrid (2 days onsite, 3 days remote)
Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (8+ Years of Relevant Experience)
Your Impact
As an IPDT (Integrated Product Development Team) Leader, you will serve as a critical driver of program success, leading the integration of engineering, operations, finance, suppliers, customers, and business stakeholders throughout the product development lifecycle.
Your leadership will help ensure that complex defense aviation programs are delivered on schedule, within budget, and in alignment with commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.
What You'll Do
Lead Program Execution from Concept to Delivery
  • Lead all phases of development programs, from technical and program definition through successful customer delivery.
  • Drive strategic planning, governance, business management, program direction, and overall execution.
  • Ensure alignment of technical, operational, financial, supplier, and customer objectives.
Integrate Cross-Functional Teams
  • Coordinate and harmonize activities across engineering, operations, finance, supply chain, certification, and customer-facing teams.
  • Foster collaboration and accountability among diverse stakeholders.
  • Influence decisions and drive consensus across complex organizations without direct authority.
Manage Program Performance
  • Develop and oversee program schedules, milestones, budgets, forecasts, and deliverables.
  • Monitor program performance and provide visibility into financial results, forecasts, and resource requirements.
  • Ensure teams remain aligned with commitments, objectives, and customer expectations.
Lead Risk & Issue Management
  • Identify, assess, and mitigate program risks.
  • Drive issue resolution and escalation strategies when necessary.
  • Establish proactive approaches to protect program performance and delivery objectives.
Support Strategic Product Development
  • Contribute to annual product planning activities and long-term strategic initiatives.
  • Lead implementation efforts involving:
    • Product Change Management
    • Aircraft Options Management
    • Mockups and Simulators
    • Training Programs
    • Earned Value Management (EVM)
    • Performance and Reliability Targets
Engage with Customers and Suppliers
  • Participate in program reviews, engineering reviews, supplier meetings, and customer engagements.
  • Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
  • Manage customer expectations through regular communication and executive-level presentations.
Required Qualifications
Must-Have Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant Engineering discipline, including:
    • Aerospace Engineering
    • Mechanical Engineering
    • Electrical Engineering
    • Or related field
  • Minimum 8 years of relevant experience, with significant experience in:
    • Aerospace or Defense industries
    • Program Management
    • Project Management
    • Technical Leadership
  • Experience leading cross-functional teams in complex development environments.
  • Advanced knowledge of program scheduling, planning, and change management processes.
  • Strong understanding of new product development and defense program execution.
  • Experience managing budgets, forecasts, financial performance, and program governance.
  • Exceptional communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.
  • Ability to influence, collaborate, and drive results across diverse teams.
Preferred Qualifications
The ideal candidate will also possess:
  • 10+ years of engineering leadership, program leadership, or organizational management experience within aerospace and/or defense.
  • Extensive experience supporting civil and/or military aircraft certification programs.
  • Strong knowledge of 14 CFR Part 25 certification requirements.
  • Experience working within an Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) environment.
  • Familiarity with:
    • Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems
    • ERP platforms
    • Engineering databases and applications
  • Knowledge of Earned Value Management (EVM) principles and methodologies.
  • Proven ability to support strategic growth and new program development initiatives.
Why Join Us?
At PDS Tech Commercial, we connect exceptional talent with organizations shaping the future of aerospace and defense.
What Makes This Opportunity Stand Out?
  • Permanent position supporting a growing defense aviation business
  • Hybrid work flexibility with a balanced onsite and remote schedule
  • Opportunity to lead high-visibility aerospace and defense programs
  • Exposure to cutting-edge aircraft development initiatives
  • Collaborative culture that values innovation, accountability, and teamwork
  • Significant leadership visibility and influence on program strategy
  • Career growth opportunities within an expanding organization
  • Work with talented professionals dedicated to excellence and mission success

Ready to Lead What's Next?
If you're a strategic aerospace leader with a passion for program execution, cross-functional collaboration, and defense innovation, we want to hear from you.
Apply today and join PDS Tech Commercial in shaping the future of military and special mission aviation. Your leadership can help bring the next generation of aircraft programs to life.
Pay Details: $60.00 to $74.00 per hour
Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, additional voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits and a 401K plan. Our benefit offerings provide employees the flexibility to choose the type of coverage that meets their individual needs. In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled
Military connected talent encouraged to apply
To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please navigate to https://www.pdstech.com/candidate-privacy
The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:
  • The California Fair Chance Act
  • Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
  • Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
  • San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Massachusetts Candidates Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Ref: US_EN_33_022364_2591428

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About PDS Tech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1977, PDS Tech, Inc. is one of the nation's premier specialty staffing firms with 31 offices nationwide.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Irving, TX, US

Year founded

1977

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