Program Manager Defense Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

POSITION PROFILE

Position Title: Program Manager

Reports To: PMO Manager

Position Overview:

This role works closely with the Senior Program Manager and cross-functional teams to execute program activities, manage schedules and financial performance, and ensure alignment across engineering, operations, and business functions.

The Program Manager may manage programs independently or lead key elements of larger programs under the guidance of a Senior Program Manager. This role plays a critical part in maintaining program execution discipline while supporting the delivery of high-reliability aerospace and space electronics.

Key Cultural Competencies:

• Bias for responsibility with a strong sense of ownership
• Skilled at building productive relationships across teams
• Collaborative team player who actively contributes to program success
• Provides organization and coordination for program teams
• Innovative thinker who seeks practical solutions to complex problems
• Adaptable and comfortable working in evolving environments
• Results-oriented with strong accountability for commitments
• Maintains composure and professionalism under pressure
• Strong work ethic and dedication to mission success
• Lifelong learner committed to professional growth
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail and planning ability
• Passionate and self-motivated
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Patient and supportive team member who contributes to a positive work environment

Key Results:

• Support the successful planning and execution of aerospace and tactical electronics development programs while meeting cost, schedule, and technical objectives
• Work closely with the Senior Program Manager and engineering teams to coordinate development, testing, and qualification activities
• Maintain accurate program schedules, forecasts, and reporting to support program visibility and decision-making
• Identify potential schedule, cost, or technical risks early and assist in implementing mitigation strategies
• Ensure program status is clearly communicated to internal stakeholders and program leadership
• Support customer interactions and program reviews alongside the Senior Program Manager
• Contribute to disciplined program execution and continuous improvement within the PMO

Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:

• Support execution of aerospace and tactical programs under the guidance of a Senior Program Manager
• Independently manage smaller programs or defined program workstreams as assigned
• Track program financial performance including actuals, ETC, and EAC
• Coordinate cross-functional teams including engineering, operations, quality, contracts, and finance
• Monitor program progress against schedule and cost targets and escalate issues as needed
• Support implementation of risk and opportunity management processes
• Work closely with engineering teams to understand technical progress and challenges
• Assist in developing and executing recovery plans for schedule delays or cost variances
• Prepare program reports and performance metrics for internal and customer reviews
• Communicate program status clearly to internal stakeholders and leadership
• Participate in customer meetings, technical interchange discussions, and program reviews
• Help ensure resources are aligned with program priorities
• Manage multiple program tasks or smaller programs simultaneously
• Contribute to continuous improvement of program management processes within the PMO

Qualifications:

• S. Person/Permanent Resident
• Bachelor's degree required, in Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related technical field preferred; Master's degree a plus
• 5-10 years of program management or engineering experience in aerospace, defense, or complex technology development environment. Experience in electronics design/development/testing highly preferred
• Demonstrated ability to coordinate cross-functional teams in product development environment
• Familiarity with development lifecycles from requirements through testing and delivery
• Experience working government customers or large defense prime contractors
• Working knowledge of AS9100, ISO13485, and aerospace/spaceflight compliance standards
• Proficiency with Microsoft
  Project and Excel