Phd Program Manager Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Fibertek is a recognized industry leader in developing and delivering mission critical laser based technologies included in next generation military and space missions. We are expanding our team and seeking several Senior Technical Program Managers (Sr. TPMs) to lead programs across our diverse portfolio of laser systems, lidar sensors, and laser communications technologies.

Program opportunities range from $5M to greater than $100M. The Sr. TPM is a hands on, technically adept program leader who thrives in a fast paced R&D environment.

In this role, you will serve as the primary customer interface, leading multidisciplinary teams of engineering and operations staff and working directly with NASA and major aerospace and defense partners. You will be responsible for ensuring that each program assigned meets its scope, schedule, cost, and performance objectives while maintaining the technical excellence Fibertek is known for. Beyond program execution, the Sr.

TPM plays a key role in strategic growth initiatives, contributing to proposals, shaping new collaborations, and supporting the evolution of Fibertek's technology roadmap. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Lead cross-functional teams of scientists, engineers, and manufacturing personnel to achieve program success. Develop enduring customer relationships by serving as the primary customer interface, fostering collaboration and ensuring clear, transparent communication.

Develop and maintain comprehensive program plans aligned with customer work statements and technical specifications. Oversee the end-to-end development lifecycle of complex active electro-optical systems, from design through delivery. Proactively identify, mitigate, and communicate technical, cost, and schedule risks; develop risk mitigation plans and execute recovery plans as needed.

Forecast program resource requirements, including technical workforce, facilities, and equipment needs. Provide executive-level briefings on program health, milestones, and challenges. Generate customer proposals to support follow on efforts and to recover unplanned cost or scope increases, ensuring programs remain on track.

Partner with business leaders to define growth opportunities and beneficial internal investments, contribute to proposals, and engage with key customers.Experience and Expertise Required: Proven success managing R&D programs from $5M - $100M+ in the aerospace and defense sector with full accountability for cost, schedule, and technical performance. US Citizen and eligibility to obtain a US Security Clearance Strong written and verbal communication and documentation skills Excellent customer interfacing skills Familiarity with expectations and collaboration in the context of typical Government development contracts, including organizations such as NASA, US Government defense organizations, and/or aerospace Prime Contractor mission partners Ability to apply experience in Aerospace and Defense to lasers and lidar systems Additional expertise in engineering systems and components for aerospace and defense missions a plus Bachelors (Master's or PhD degree preferred) in a relevant engineering or applied-science field >10 years professional experience including demonstrated success leading large and diverse technical teams in an engineering organization Direct experience with systems engineering, optical or laser system development, and high-reliability aerospace programs EVM experience preferred, including integrated baseline development and monthly statusingExperience and Expertise Required: Proven success managing R&D programs from $5M - $100M+ in the aerospace and defense sector with full accountability for cost, schedule, and technical performance. US Citizen and eligibility to obtain a US Security Clearance Strong written and verbal communication and documentation skills Excellent customer interfacing skills Familiarity with expectations and collaboration in the context of typical Government development contracts, including organizations such as NASA, US Government defense organizations, and/or aerospace Prime Contractor mission partners Ability to apply experience in Aerospace and Defense to lasers and lidar systems Additional expertise in engineering systems and components for aerospace and defense missions a plus Bachelors (Master's or PhD degree preferred) in a relevant engineering or applied-science field >10 years professional experience including demonstrated success leading large and diverse technical teams in an engineering organization Direct experience with systems engineering, optical or laser system development, and high-reliability aerospace programs EVM experience preferred, including integrated baseline development and monthly statusing