Aerospace Program Manager – Defense/ISR & Compliance

Aery Aviation, LLC; Newport News (VA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Aery Aviation, LLC seeks an experienced Program Manager to lead a major government/aviation contract and oversee additional programs from award through delivery and sustainment. You will own execution, drive technical excellence, and ensure safety culture in partnership with Engineering, Quality, Flight Operations, Production, and Finance.

The role requires proactive leadership, risk management, and clear communication in a fast-moving aerospace/defense environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or related technical discipline.
• 5+ years of program management experience in aerospace/defense.
• Demonstrated success leading complex aviation/mission or modification programs, ideally $50M+ scope.
• Experience in government ISR Operations.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Project, Teams, and SharePoint.
• Strong skills in analysis, financial management, and executive-level communication.
• Knowledge of PMI PMP principles (PMP preferred; attainable within 12 months).
• Ability to travel up to 25% (domestic and international).
• Participation in Aery’s Drug-Free Workplace Program.
• Completion of annual PM, quality, and FAA Part 145 training as required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain an active U.S. Secret Security Clearance (U.S. citizenship required).

Responsibilities

• Lead primary program for the contract and future aviation programs.
• Own program performance across cost, schedule, quality, and risk.
• Direct daily program execution to align with Prime contract requirements.
• Coordinate with Engineering, Production, and Quality to hit milestones.
• Ensure compliance with FAR/DFARS and AS9100D.
• Manage P&L performance and financial reporting with COO.
• Track budgets, forecasts, and earned value.
• Identify and mitigate cost/schedule risks; implement recovery actions.
• Lead contract change management to protect margin and scope.
• Serve as main contact for contracting officers and program reps.
• Lead program reviews, status briefings, and milestone meetings.
• Maintain clear communication with all stakeholders.

Skills

Analytical skills

Financial management

Executive communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering/Business

PMI PMP knowledge (preferred)

PM/Quality/FAA Part 145 training (annual)

Tools

Microsoft Project

Microsoft Teams

SharePoint

Job description

Aery Aviation, LLC seeks an experienced Program Manager to lead a major government/aviation contract and oversee additional programs from award through delivery and sustainment. You will own execution, drive technical excellence, and ensure safety culture in partnership with Engineering, Quality, Flight Operations, Production, and Finance.

The role requires proactive leadership, risk management, and clear communication in a fast-moving aerospace/defense environment.