Lead Spacecraft Programs - Senior PM, R&D

Southwest Research Institute; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio, TX, is seeking a Program Manager-R&D for Spacecraft Development to lead mid- to large-scale programs from concept to flight-ready systems, delivering cost, schedule, and technical performance.

The role provides technical and program leadership for advanced spacecraft efforts, guiding readiness, system integration, and customer engagement across civil, government, and international markets. Strong collaboration and oversight are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant engineering field.
• PMP or similar certification preferred but not required with demonstrated project management experience.
• 10+ years: leading technical space programs and projects of significant scope and complexity.
• 10+ years: building and sustaining technical or research program areas with multi-year funding.
• 10+ years: outstanding organizational, management, technical, and interpersonal skills with excellent communication.

Responsibilities

• Lead execution of mid- to large-scale spacecraft programs from concept through integration-ready, flight-worthy systems.
• Provide technical and program leadership for spacecraft and mission development with rigorous technical readiness.
• Drive business development and strategic planning for spacecraft in civil government, DoD, and international markets.
• Manage program resources, budgets, governance processes, and relationships to support growth and execution excellence.
• Direct cross-functional teams to design, assemble, integrate, test, and deliver spacecraft systems.

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Astronautical Engineering, Space Systems Engineering, Systems Engineering or related technical field

Job description

Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio, TX, is seeking a Program Manager-R&D for Spacecraft Development to lead mid- to large-scale programs from concept to flight-ready systems, delivering cost, schedule, and technical performance.

The role provides technical and program leadership for advanced spacecraft efforts, guiding readiness, system integration, and customer engagement across civil, government, and international markets. Strong collaboration and oversight are essential.