Program Director, Space

Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense; Moorpark (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense is seeking an experienced Program Director to manage strategic programs in the Space Segment. This leader will handle customer relationships and ensure exceptional program delivery while driving commercial success.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in aerospace and defense, with proven capabilities in managing complex programs. Responsibilities involve performance management, risk assessment, and collaboration with business leaders for profitability.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Program Director or senior program leader in aerospace, defense, or space industries.
• Experience managing complex mechanical or electro-mechanical programs.
• Strong communication and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Own end-to-end program performance including cost, schedule, quality, and customer satisfaction.
• Serve as the primary customer interface, building trusted relationships with stakeholders.
• Lead cross-functional teams to deliver aerospace and space programs.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Risk management

Commercial acumen

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Advanced degree

Job description

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Program Director to lead strategic programs within our Space Segment business. This individual will own both customer relationships and program execution, ensuring exceptional delivery performance while driving commercial success. The ideal candidate brings deep aerospace experience, strong leadership capability, and a track record of managing complex, high‑stakes programs with discipline and accountability.

Key Responsibilities

• Own end‑to‑end program performance, including cost, schedule, quality, and customer satisfaction.
• Serve as the primary customer interface, building trusted relationships with key stakeholders.
• Lead cross‑functional teams to deliver complex aerospace and space programs successfully.
• Drive program execution discipline, risk management, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Partner with business leaders to support growth, profitability, and strategic objectives.
• Ensure alignment between customer expectations and internal execution capabilities.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• Proven experience as a Program Director or senior program leader in aerospace, defense, or space industries.
• Demonstrated success managing complex mechanical, electro‑mechanical, or energetics programs.
• Strong commercial acumen with the ability to balance customer needs and business outcomes.
• Experience leading customer‑facing programs with high visibility and accountability.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

Ensign‑Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status.