Production Program Manager (Aerospace/Defense)

Ascend Recruiting Partners; Stafford (VA); On-site; USD 165,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation provided

Job summary

Ascend Recruiting Partners is seeking an experienced Program Manager for DoD production/manufacturing programs in Stafford, VA. You will be the primary liaison with government stakeholders, executives, and industry partners, steering the program from inception through delivery.

Ideal candidates have 5+ years managing DoD contracts and large production projects, with strong FAR/DFARS understanding and proven budget/vendor oversight capabilities. Security clearance eligibility is required.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience managing DoD contracts and programs, including production/manufacturing environments.
• Experience managing large projects in a production/manufacturing facility.
• Strong DoD acquisition knowledge (FAR/DFARS).
• Proven budget management, contract execution, and vendor oversight.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead IPTs across engineering, quality, supply chain, procurement, and production.
• Define project scope, milestones, and KPIs with internal and external stakeholders.
• Align program delivery with customer priorities and strategic goals.
• Act as the primary representative to PMO offices, government agencies, and subcontractors.

Skills

DoD project leadership

IPT leadership

Stakeholder management

Communication skills

Budget management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, or related field

Job description

Industry: Manufacturing - Aerospace/Defense

On-site Location: Stafford, VA

Relocation Provided: Yes

Salary Range: $165,000 – $190,000

U.S. Citizenship and the ability to obtain a security clearance

Job Overview:

A leader in loitering munitions and tactical solutions is seeking a dynamic and experienced Program Manager to lead key DoD production/manufacturing programs. This role demands a strategic leader with strong technical acumen and a solid grasp of DoD acquisition processes. You will be the primary point of contact for government stakeholders, executives, and industry partners, driving program success from inception through delivery.

• 5+ years of experience managing DoD contracts and programs, with some experience managing projects and programs in a production/manufacturing environment
• Must have experience managing large projects in a production/manufacturing facility
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, or related field
• Proven leadership in cross-functional Integrated Project Teams (IPTs)
• Strong understanding of DoD acquisition (FAR/DFARS)
• Demonstrated success in budget management, contract execution, and vendor oversight
• Technically proficient with the ability to manage complex systems and solutions
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills
• U.S. Citizenship and the ability to obtain a security clearance

Preferred Requirements:

• PMP Certification (preferred, not required if has strong DoD program leadership experience) 10+ years if no PMP

Responsibilities:

• Lead IPTs across engineering, quality, supply chain, procurement, and production
• Define project scope, milestones, and KPIs with internal and external stakeholders
• Align program delivery with customer priorities and strategic goals
• Act as the primary representative to PMO offices, government agencies, and subcontractors

Budget & Contract Management

• Oversee budgeting, cost analysis, and contract execution under FAR/DFARS
• Track expenditures and identify cost-saving opportunities
• Manage vendor and subcontractor performance

Technical Oversight & Strategy

• Partner with engineering teams to integrate new technologies
• Ensure delivery of technically compliant solutions
• Promote continuous improvement and innovation

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure program compliance with DoD regulations and internal policies
• Identify and mitigate risks with appropriate contingency planning

Maintain accurate program documentation and reporting