Innovation Program Manager Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Sierra Space Careers:
At Sierra Space, we build the missions and systems that keep our world secure in the domain above Earth.
Sierra Space team members share a spirit of innovation and collaboration and a belief that we can deliver on the boldest missions in space today. Together with our customers, we aim to safeguard our nation, sustain human presence in space, and secure the freedom of operations in low Earth orbit and beyond.
Our success is measured by the trust of those who rely on what we build and deliver, and our technologies keep the United States and its allies mission-ready throughout space.
We are mission-driven, and together, we are an extraordinary team.
About the Role
The Sr. Program Manager will act as the Deputy Program Manager to the Program Director supporting the execution and delivery of a $1B+ portfolio. This role will have primary responsibility for a production program building a constellation of space vehicles. Additionally, this role will support the initial development program, ensuring a seamless transition from development to production. The Sr. Program Manager oversees program cost, schedule, and technical performance, focusing on delta design reviews, volume manufacturing, integration, launch and commissioning. Candidates must demonstrate a proven track record of successful program management in complex, large-scale environments, including experience leading multidisciplinary teams, driving program milestones, and delivering results under stringent schedule requirements. Exceptional communication skills are essential, as the Deputy Program Manager will be expected to coordinate and interface regularly with internal executive leadership as well as directly with customers. Experience with electro-optical/infrared payloads, ground command and control systems, spacecraft volume manufacturing, or spacecraft operations is highly valued.
About You
Our mission is driven by an unyielding commitment to advancing space-based technology in service of our customers and safeguarding national security. We seek individuals who are passionate about innovating beyond boundaries and relentlessly pursuing solutions that protect, preserve and empower - to join us in this critical mission.
We're looking for team members who align with our values, mission and goals - while also meeting the minimum qualifications below. The preferred qualifications are a bonus, not a requirement.
Key Responsibilities

• Report directly to the Program Director; support management of a >$1B program portfolio.
• Lead the production program for a constellation of space vehicles, overseeing cost, schedule, and technical performance.
• Support the initial development program and facilitate transition from development to production.
• Demonstrate proven expertise in program management, including planning, execution, and delivery of complex projects.
• Develop and maintain production schedules, budgets, and plans.
• Coordinate manufacturing, integration, and delivery activities with engineering, operations, and supply chain teams.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for both internal executive leadership and external customers, ensuring clear and timely communication.
• Monitor program performance and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Apply advanced project management methodologies (EVMS, CAM, BOE, FAR, CAS) and tools.
• Communicate program status, risks, and issues to stakeholders; prepare effective reports and presentations.
• Ensure compliance with all contractual and regulatory requirements.
• Build strong relationships with external customers and stakeholders.
• Support Learning & Development programs to enhance team capabilities.
• Mentor junior managers and staff; foster a culture of continuous improvement.
• Participate in management reviews, interface with financial teams, and drive production strategies.
• Demonstrate leadership in removing obstacles, managing risks, and executing complex program strategies.

Minimum Qualifications

• Requires Bachelor's degree in a related field (or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree or Masters +10 yrs experience).
• Typically 12+ years of related experience.
• Proven program management experience, including successful leadership of complex, multidisciplinary programs from development through production.
• Expert knowledge of all related program management areas, including strategic and operational aspects.
• Leadership and business management skills to direct complex programs and multiple teams.
• Ability to manage high-profile, large-scale programs or a substantial program portfolio (hundreds of millions of dollars+).
• Exceptional communication skills, with demonstrated ability to coordinate with executive leadership and directly engage with customers.
• Advanced negotiation and conflict resolution in customer and stakeholder interactions.
• Strong financial acumen for managing and reporting on program health and performance.
• Ability to lead programs that significantly impact the organization's strategic goals.
• Ability to obtain a TS/SCI clearance

Desired and Preferred Qualifications

• Master of Business Administration (MBA) in addition to a technical degree is desired
• Certifications: Senior-level project management certifications preferred (e.g., PMP).
• 15 years of PM experience and 5 years of technical experience is desired
• Experience in one or more of the following:
  • Electro-Optical/Infrared systems
  • Ground command and control systems
  • Spacecraft volume manufacturing
  • Spacecraft operations
• Understanding systems engineering processes including requirements decomposition and model based systems engineering (MBSE)
• Familiarity with Agile project management methodologies.
• Proficiency in using project management software tools such as Microsoft Project, JIRA, or Asana.
• Knowledge of Lean Six Sigma principles and practices.
• Understanding of software development lifecycle (SDLC) and systems engineering processes.
• Experience with contract management and negotiation.
• Familiarity with data analysis tools such as Excel, Tableau, or Power BI.
• Understanding of supply chain management and logistics as they pertain to program execution.
• Current TS clearance desired

Compensation:
Pay Range:
$182,599.00 - $251,094.25
Your actual base compensation will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, experience, internal equity and market competitiveness.
IMPORTANT NOTICE:
This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain Top Secret with SCI eligibility U.S. Security Clearance. U.S. Citizenship status is required as this position needs an active U.S. Security Clearance for employment. Non-U.S. Citizens may not be eligible to obtain a security clearance. The Department of Defense Consolidated Adjudications Facility (DoD CAF), a federal government agency, handles the adjudicative aspects of the security clearance eligibility process for industry applicants. Adjudicative factors which affect the outcome of the eligibility determination include, but are not limited to, allegiance to the U.S., foreign influence, foreign preference, criminal conduct, security violations and illegal drug use.
Elevate Your Career
At Sierra Space, we are committed to your personal and professional development. We empower you to make profound and meaningful contributions and foster a vibrant culture of collaboration, where teamwork ignites breakthrough innovations.
We also offer a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, and more.
Sierra Space is an industry-leading space and defense technology company providing satellites, spacecraft, and enabling mission systems and components. We deliver mission-proven technologies to our customers that safeguard our nation, protect space-based assets and enable space exploration.
Application Deadline: This role will remain posted until a qualified pool of candidates is identified.
Please note: Sierra Space does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to Sierra Space team members not through our approved vendor list or Talent Acquisition will be considered property of Sierra Space, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.
Sierra Space Corporation is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need special assistance or a reasonable accommodation related to applying for employment with Sierra Space or at any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us.