Free Space Optics Program Manager

Viasat; Carlsbad (CA); On-site; USD 95,000 - 149,000; Full time

Job summary

Viasat is seeking a Program Manager for its Advanced Network Products portfolio in the United States. You will lead programs from conception through completion, ensuring alignment with budget, schedule, and technical performance, while serving as the main point of contact for stakeholders and internal teams.

The role requires strong leadership of cross-functional teams, risk management, and proactive communication, with opportunities to influence proposals and business development in a

Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressive program management experience.
• Experience managing programs in defense or government contracting.
• Proven ability to manage programs with budgets over $2 million.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• US citizenship with ability to obtain a Secret security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of assigned programs from initiation to close-out.
• Develop program plans including scope, schedule, budget, risk management and communication strategies.
• Ensure programs are executed on time and within budget while maintaining quality and compliance.
• Serve as the primary contact for stakeholders and cross-functional teams.
• Mentor and lead a diverse program team and allocate resources effectively.
• Manage program financial performance and present reports to senior leadership.
• Support winning proposals and business development activities.

Skills

Program management

Cross-functional leadership

Communication skills

Leadership

Budget & financial mgmt

US citizenship / clearance readiness

Government contracting

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field

Bachelor's degree in business administration

Master's degree preferred

Job description

About us

One team. Global challenges. Infinite opportunities. At Viasat, we're on a mission to deliver connections with the capacity to change the world. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the globe communicate. We're looking for people who think big, act fearlessly, and create an inclusive environment that drives positive impact to join our team.

What you'll do

Advanced Network Products is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Program Manager to lead and manage a portfolio of programs focused on our products portfolio. In this pivotal role, you will be responsible for the successful execution of programs from conception through completion, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives, budget, schedule, and technical performance requirements. You will serve as the primary point of contact for stakeholders and internal cross-functional teams, driving collaboration and delivering exceptional results.

The day-to-day

• Program Leadership & Execution:
• Lead and manage all aspects of assigned programs, including planning, execution, monitoring, and close-out.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive program plans, including scope, schedule, budget, risk management, and communication strategies.
• Ensure programs are executed within established baselines and in accordance with company policies, procedures, and relevant government regulations (e.g., FAR, DFARS).
• Drive on-time and on-budget delivery of program deliverables while maintaining high quality and technical integrity.
• Identify and mitigate program risks and issues proactively, developing effective contingency plans.
• Customer Relationship Management:
• Directly support all internal and external customers, building strong relationships and understanding their evolving needs and priorities.
• Communicate program status, progress, risks, and issues clearly and concisely to both internal and external stakeholders.
• Negotiate and manage contract modifications and scope changes effectively.
• Ensure customer satisfaction through proactive engagement and responsive problem-solving.
• Team Leadership & Collaboration:
• Lead and mentor a diverse, cross-functional program team, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
• Allocate resources effectively and ensure appropriate staffing levels for program success.
• Facilitate effective communication and coordination among engineering, operations, finance, contracts, and business development teams.
• Champion best practices in program management and continuous improvement.
• Financial Management:
• Manage program financial performance, including revenue forecasting, cost control, and profitability.
• Prepare and present financial reports and analyses to senior leadership.
• Identify and pursue opportunities for program growth and expansion.
• Proposal Development & Business Development Support:
• Contribute to the development of winning proposals for new opportunities.
• Support business development efforts by providing technical insights, customer intelligence, and program management expertise.

What you'll need

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, business administration, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 5+ years of progressive experience in program management, with a general understanding of the U.S. military.
• Proven experience managing complex, multi-faceted programs through the full program lifecycle (initiation, planning, execution, monitoring & control, closure).
• Demonstrated success in managing programs with budgets exceeding $2 Million.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively engage with all levels of an organization and external stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate cross-functional teams.
• US Citizenship with ability to obtain a Secret security clearance.

What will help you on the job

• Master's degree in a relevant field.
• PMP or equivalent program management certification (e.g., DAWIA Program Management Level II or III) is highly preferred.
• Experience with Agile methodologies in a government contracting environment.

Salary range

$94,500.00 - $149,000.00 / annually.

For specific work locations within San Jose, the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, the base pay range for this role is $117,000.00- $176,000.00/ annually

At Viasat, we consider many factors when it comes to compensation, including the scope of the position as well as your background and experience. Base pay may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Additional cash or stock incentives may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Learn more about Viasat's comprehensive benefit offerings that are focused on your holistic health and wellness at https://careers.viasat.com/benefits.

EEO Statement

Viasat is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, seeking to create a welcoming and diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, genetics, age, or veteran status or any other applicable legally protected status or characteristic. If you would like to request an accommodation on the basis of disability for completing this on-line application, please click here.