Software Program Manager Jobs in Compton, CA (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary

This role oversees post-production hardware and software development projects/programs with a deep focus on ensuring reliability, manufacturability, and product continuity of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) for software R&D initiatives.

You will work with cross-functional scrum teams and will be responsible for implementing and upholding standards for our delivery framework, as well as coach your team members on best practices for program delivery.

This role requires strong cross-functional leadership skills, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to drive priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Manage the end-to-end software lifecycle including requirements, architecture, implementation, integration, verification, and release.
• Develop detailed gantt charts and leverage agile tools (scrum, kanban, etc) to drive planning and execution.
• Maintain visibility into multi-workstream initiatives intended for both internal and external customers.
• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to implement technical improvements to existing products.
• Define and evangelize SW processes and delivery methodologies to ensure we accomplish our program goals.
• Build and drive detailed engineering program plans, including schedules, resource allocation, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Foster transparency and predictability by building and maintaining roadmaps for assigned programs.
• Manage and track technical issues reported internally and externally by customers, driving prioritization, resolution, and communication of root cause analysis (RCA).
• Act as the primary point of contact for program status, tradeoffs, and decision-making — escalating risks and unblocking teams as needed.
• Help shape FlightWave’s program management practices as the company scales — from tooling to process evolution.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s in software, computer, or systems engineering (or related/equivalent technical fields or experience).
• 5+ years of experience managing software programs as a project/program manager, IPT lead or equivalent leadership role in an interdisciplinary team.
• Demonstrated experience with cross-functional program management in aerospace, robotics, consumer electronics, or a similar field.
• Experience running agile project cycles and/or leading technical teams as scrum master
• Experience leading highly technical programs involving integrating software infrastructure, complex electro-mechanical systems, and systems engineering.
• Active risk management and opportunity management practices.
• Excellent communication, technical fluency, and program tracking instincts.
• Experience with project scheduling (gantt) tools, preferably Smartsheet.
• Proven ability to lead and influence without direct management authority.
• Familiarity with modern project management/kanban applications (Jira, Trello, Linear, Notion, etc)

Additional Desired Qualifications

• Experience in software development as an IC.
• Experience with vision systems, autonomous/unmanned systems, aerospace platforms, or other regulated/high-reliability products.
• Deep understanding of aerospace/defense hardware development (cradle to grave) lifecycles.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Ability to sit and work at a computer for extended periods of time.
• Ability to stand for extended periods during first builds and production floor activities.
• Ability to occasionally lift and/or move items up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to use hands and fingers to handle, assemble, or inspect components and hardware.
• Ability to communicate effectively with team members in both office and production environments.
• Specific vision abilities required include close vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus when working with technical drawings, schematics, and small components.

Background Check

This position will require successfully completing a post-offer background check. Qualified candidates with a criminal history will be considered and are not automatically disqualified, consistent with federal and state law.

EEO and ITAR/EAR Work Authorization Disclosure

Red Cat Holdings provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This position requires direct or indirect access to hardware, software, technology or technical data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Successful candidates for positions subject to ITAR/EAR restrictions must provide proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residence and must not require sponsorship for export-restricted work authorization.

E-Verify

The company participates E-Verify ensure eligibility for employment and compliance with Right to Work rules.

Compensation: Salary plus generous annual equity package and potential bonuses