Program Manager Defense Jobs in Providence, RI (NOW HIRING)

Saab's Autonomous & Undersea Systems (AUS) Business is seeking a leader responsible for Quality Management and Continuous Improvement across its portfolio. Based in Bristol, RI, this position will also be responsible for Quality in Quincy, MA and Cranston, RI.

Responsibilities will include:

• Employee management and engagement, quality systems, continuous improvement activities utilizing lean concepts, and compliance to relevant standards/requirements.

• Work collaboratively with Program Management, Engineering, Supply Chain, and Production to maximize efficiencies, achieve objectives, and improve overall safety and product quality in the business.

• Develop a strong relationship with Saab's Global Naval Business Area team and continually develop and improve global and local processes.

• Manage transfer of technology programs for products moving from Sweden to the US.

• Manage and lead program quality, inspection, continuous improvement, in a geographically dispersed work environment. Considerable domestic and international travel is expected.

• Promote a safe work environment and recommend changes/additions to health & safety policies.

• Ensure proper staffing to effectively perform all functions. This includes having the right skill mix to cover all areas of responsibility in global operations.

• Be an active member of the AUS management team that develops and executes operational plans.

• Keep management and others informed of significant issues or developments.

• Support other departments/functions as needed to ensure operational efficiencies.

• Develop quality team via internal and external educational and experiential opportunities.

• Provide costing data to support proposal efforts.

• Resolve external quality issues. This may include direct customer contact, interaction with the program management team, or others close to the issue to resolve and drive permanent corrective actions.

• Manage the relevant aspects of the Quality Management System, to include internal and external audits, business updated, and Management Reviews.

• Work with peers in the management team to establish quality improvement strategies and plans.

• Ensure internal audits of existing processes are being performed and changing/evaluating as necessary to continually meet/exceed customer expectations.

• Develop methods for inspection, testing, and evaluation of products.

• Perform formal root cause analysis on product/process related issues.

• Utilize risk assessment tools (e.g., PFMEAs) to identify actions to reduce risks.

• Lead key improvement projects, providing leadership in developing practical solutions to complex problems.

• Improve processes using Kaizen, process mapping, 6s, or other lean tools.

• Identify trends and process variations for future improvement initiatives.

• Ensure compliance across all areas of responsibility.

Compensation Range: $145,100 - $188,700

The compensation range provided is a general guideline. When extending an offer, Saab, Inc. considers factors including (but not limited to) the role and associated responsibilities, location, and market and business considerations, as well as the candidate's work experience, key skills, and education/training.

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Quality or related discipline is required. Master's degree is a plus.

• 10+ years of progressive experience in Aerospace or Defense.

• 5+ years in a Quality management role in Aerospace or Defense.

• Lean training and experience / certification a plus.

• A proven track record of implementing improvements.

• Experience with customer (USG) interaction and problem resolution.

• Strong analytical, prioritizing, interpersonal, problem-solving, presentation, budgeting, project management skills.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

• Experience in deploying and certifying an ISO9001 Quality System in an Aerospace or Defense company. AS9100 and CMMI experience is a plus.

• Ability to develop and maintain collaborative relationships with peers and colleagues across the organization, as well as internal and external clients.

• Ability to form partnerships with foreign national partners in order to maximize results.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team to achieve strategic goals.

• Experience with the development and production of autonomous underwater vehicles desired.

Citizenship Requirements:

Must be a U.S. citizen. Applicants selected may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

Drug-Free Workplaces:

Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for sustaining drug-free workplaces. As a condition of employment, candidates will be required to pass a pre-employment drug screen.

Saab provides an excellent working environment offering professional growth opportunities, competitive wages, work-life balance, a business casual atmosphere and comprehensive benefits.

Highlights include:

• Medical, vision, and dental insurance for employees and dependents

• Generous paid time off, including 8 designated holidays

• 401(k) with employer contributions

• Tuition assistance and student loan assistance

• Wellness and employee assistance resources

• Employee stock purchase opportunities

• Short-term and long-term disability coverage

Saab is a leading defense and security company with an enduring purpose, to help nations keep their people and society safe. Empowered by its 28,000 talented people, Saab constantly pushes the boundaries of technology to create a safer and more sustainable world. In the U.S., Saab delivers advanced technology and systems, supporting the U.S. Armed Forces and the Federal Aviation Administration, as well as international and commercial partners. Headquartered in Syracuse, New York, the company has business units and local employees in ten U.S. locations.

Saab is a company where we see diversity as an asset and offer unlimited opportunities for advancing in your career. We are also a company that respects each person's needs and encourage employees to lead a balanced, rewarding life beyond work. Saab values diversity and is an Affirmative Action employer for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Saab is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, all qualified individuals are encouraged to apply and will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran, disability status, or any other federal, state, or locally protected category.