Program Manager Defense Jobs in Flint, MI (NOW HIRING)

Location: Oxford, MI

About the Opportunity

As a Program Manager, you'll lead customer programs from scope definition and planning through manufacturing launch, execution, and completion. You'll play an important role in coordinating internal teams, production requirements, and customer expectations to deliver complex, high-quality components that support critical aerospace and defense programs.

Warnke is a subsidiary of Palladyne AI (NASDAQ: PDYN), a U.S.-based defense and industrial technology company that delivers embodied AI-powered collaborative autonomy solutions, advanced avionics, precision-manufactured components, UAVs, and advanced aerospace design services.

At Warnke Precision Machining, quality and craftsmanship are central to everything we do. As an AS9100D-registered high-precision machine shop, we manufacture and assemble complex components for aerospace and defense prime contractors supporting federal government and military programs. Our in-house capabilities range from advanced 5-axis machining to traditional manual equipment, allowing our experienced team to consistently produce reliable, high-quality components.

You'll thrive in this role if you take ownership of complex programs, communicate clearly with customers and internal teams, and remain organized as priorities evolve. You approach challenges with sound judgment, pay close attention to quality and cost, and enjoy bringing people and processes together to achieve shared goals.

What You’ll Do

• Define project scope, tasks, deliverables, and required resources.
• Analyze customer requirements and identify opportunities to improve project execution.
• Establish and manage project targets, milestones, schedules, and timelines.
• Adjust project schedules, priorities, and targets as needed.
• Develop and manage project budgets.
• Maintain order documentation for materials and outsourced services required for each project.
• Implement and manage changes necessary to meet project deliverables.
• Coordinate the manufacturing launch of new products.
• Support manufacturing capabilities, production schedules, and other requirements that facilitate efficient production.
• Optimize operating instructions to meet customer specifications and cost targets.
• Ensure projects meet internal and customer quality requirements.
• Report project status, risks, concerns, and updates to internal management.
• Communicate project updates, changes, and concerns to customers.
• Evaluate project performance during execution and after completion.
• Perform other related duties and special projects as assigned.

What Makes Someone Successful Here

• Strong ownership of projects from initial planning through completion.
• The ability to organize multiple priorities, deadlines, and stakeholder needs.
• Clear, professional communication with customers, leadership, and production teams.
• A practical approach to identifying risks and solving problems.
• Strong attention to quality, cost, schedule, and documentation.
• The flexibility to adjust plans as customer or production requirements change.
• A collaborative approach to working across manufacturing, operations, quality, and customer-facing teams.
• A consistent commitment to accountability, integrity, and reliable execution.

• At least 3 years of relevant program or project management experience; 5 or more years preferred.
• Experience defining project scope, schedules, milestones, resources, and budgets.
• Ability to coordinate projects across internal teams and external customers.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Computer literacy and proficiency with Microsoft Office.
• Experience in machining or manufacturing is preferred.
• Aerospace or defense program management experience is preferred.
• Experience with JobBOSS² or a similar enterprise resource planning system is preferred.

Benefits & Perks

• Competitive salary
• 401(k) with company match
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Professional development opportunities

Work Authorization & Clearance

This position requires the ability to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship.

Depending on the nature of the work, the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance may be required. Candidates may be asked to provide additional information relevant to clearance eligibility in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

The Fine Print

No third-party candidates will be accepted.

Palladyne AI is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.