Vendor Program Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary
The NDI Maritime Program Manager manages a robust and expanding maritime radar systems program. The Program Manager is responsible for cost, schedule, and performance management for field service events and new system installation/commissioning projects. New item (spare parts) and repair sales to government and other defense contractor customers and subsequent order delivery are also key responsibilities of the program manager. Daily tasks include planning and overseeing field service events, quote reviews, order entry reviews, import/customs management, and order delivery. This individual also leads large proposal submissions for contract vehicles that facilitate programmatic work. The Program Manager reports to the VP of Program Management and leads the Maritime Program Team, including a team of Field Service Engineers. This position is in-office at the NDI the San Diego, CA location and requires travel up to 25%.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
• Responsible for providing field services, repairs, and parts resale for TRS-3D and TRS-4D radars to both the US Navy and Coast Guard fleets
• Delivers annual order backlog with complex packaging and distribution requirements, including HAZMAT; manages import/export requirements, customs clearance, and 3PL providers to ensure on time delivery
• Markets and sells new and refurbished parts to the US military and other defense contractors utilizing DIBBS, NECO, SAM.gov, and direct customer engagement
• Leads a field service team to execute monthly, on-site support events; manages travel planning, tooling procurement, and invoicing
• Tracks cost, schedule, and performance KPIs for T&M and FFP contracts that include multiple deliverables
• Supports the negotiations of contractual agreements with US government contracting activities and other defense contractors to ensure favorable terms and conditions
• Interfaces with OEM partners and other vendors to provide parts and services outside of company capabilities
• Writes supplier Statements of Work (SoW)
• Ensures timely purchase orders and subcontracts in place
• Creates and tracks Subcontractor Data Requirements Lists (SDRLs)
• Oversees all supplier interactions, including meetings, program reviews, technical discussions, action items
• Technical oversight responsibilities: repair order review, depot vs. field repair decisions, DR/CAR management, and CDRL delivery
• Ensures suppliers meet NDI scheduled delivery requirements
• Coordinates with NDI Quality team to ensure supplier meets program quality requirements
• Develops and executes a supplier risk management plan
Requirements
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
Minimum Requirements
• Secret Security Clearance required
• Knowledge of order lifecycle process
• Ability to work with an organizational ERP system and externally facing ERP and PMIS systems such as Navy CAV
• Strong skills to delegate complex tasks and periodically review/spot check at critical points
• Knowledge of P&L management and GAAP; ability to review financial transactions such as quotes and purchase/sales orders for accuracy and correctness
• Ability to lead a small, remote team of engineers
• Skills interfacing with customers, supplies (large and small businesses), and strategic OEM partners
• Understanding of federal program management and experience driving successful program outcomes; experience managing multiple projects simultaneously; knowledge of government procurement, contracting, and standards and specifications
• Proven track record maintaining program oversight, proactive problem-solving and effectively working with customers, internal stakeholders, and program partners
• Demonstrated business development and strategic planning skills; familiarity with the entire proposal process, including strategic planning, drafting, and coordination; proven capability acquiring follow-on business and leading significant proposals, showcasing a successful track record of securing new business opportunities
• Ability to travel internationally and domestically
• Strong organizational and analytical skills, and experience leveraging productivity tools and software for performance analysis; proficiency with Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, Power Point)
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional program teams
• Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing, make presentations and conduct negotiations with customers, subcontractors, and vendors
Preferred Capabilities
• Experience with Navy/Coast Guard shipboard systems and field service or depot repair contracts (T&M/FFP)
• Knowledge of handling CUI required for field service execution
• Knowledge of ITAR and US export requirements
• Understanding of FAR, DFARS, HSARS and other common requirements for government contracts
• Understanding of Navy-specific coordination requirements: TYCOM scheduling, ship availability windows, and crew interfaces
• Familiarity with Navy maintenance systems (SKED, NESSS, 3M)
• DLA/Navy supply chain experience (NSNs, CAGE codes, FLIS)
• Baseline RF/radar or electronics repair knowledge
• Experience with Navy Program Offices (PEO IWS, PEO Ships, NAVSEA)
WORK EXPERIENCE / EDUCATION
Minimum Requirements
• Ten (10) years' experience in operational or project management within defense and aerospace, manufacturing, or federal government/military
• Bachelor's degree
• Ability to lead a small, remote team of engineers
• General knowledge and experience working with an ERP/MRP
• Understanding of GAAP and principles of accounting
Preferred Capabilities
• Experience using Microsoft Dynamics Business Central
• Experience using PIEE and IPP
• Project Management Professional Certification
• Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt
Salary Description
$145,000 - $190,000