Program Manager, Defense Systems

X-Bow Systems; Luling (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

X-Bow Systems is seeking a Program Manager to direct rocket motor development and production programs, from initial customer interaction through final delivery. You will lead cross-functional teams, manage timelines and budgets, and engage government and external partners.

The role demands experience in aerospace program management and a strong emphasis on quality and regulatory compliance. Ideal candidates have 5+ years in PM roles, a engineering degree, and preferably a Master’s or PMP.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in program or project management in aerospace/defense.
• Bachelor's in Engineering; a Master's or PMP is advantageous.
• Experience in proposal development and management in a relevant field.
• Strong understanding of project management principles, methodologies, and tools.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute programs with goals, timelines, resources, and budgets.
• Lead cross-functional teams across engineering, manufacturing, quality assurance, and supply chain.
• Communicate progress, risks, and outcomes to stakeholders and executives.
• Identify, analyze, and mitigate program risks; resolve complex issues.
• Ensure activities comply with standards and government requirements; implement QA processes.
• Evaluate performance and apply lessons learned to future phases.

Skills

Program management

Aerospace/Defense

Solid rocket motor design

Leadership

Communication

Proposal development

Education

Bachelor's in Engineering

Master's degree or PMP

Tools

MS Project

Job description

This position is in the X-Bow Defense Systems Sector. As a Program Manager, you will be given the opportunity to direct and manage rocket motor development and production programs from initial customer interaction through final delivery. This position requires self-motivated, highly skilled program managers using all PM-related skills to develop and manage programs with minimal oversight and guidance on timelines shorter than usual in the industry. Expected responsibilities for this position include:

• Program Planning and Execution:
• Develop comprehensive program plans that outline goals, timelines, resources, and budget requirements.
• Oversee the execution of program plans, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget.
• Team Leadership and Resource Management:
• Lead and coordinate cross-functional teams, including engineering, manufacturing, quality assurance, and supply chain across different projects within the program.
• Manage resources effectively, ensuring optimal allocation to meet program objectives.
• Stakeholder Communication and Engagement:
• Serve as the primary point of contact for all program stakeholders, including team members, executives, and government representatives and external partners.
• Communicate program progress, challenges, and outcomes to relevant stakeholders, maintaining transparency and collaboration.
• Risk Management and Problem Solving:
• Identify, analyze, and mitigate risks that may impact program objective particularly those related to requirements, technical and manufacturing challenges.
• Resolve complex issues and conflicts within the program, applying effective problem-solving skills.
• Quality Assurance and Compliance:
• Ensure program activities comply with organizational standards, industry regulations, and government requirements.
• Implement quality assurance processes to maintain high standards in program deliverables, including rigorous design, analysis, testing and validation of solid rocket motors.
• Evaluate program performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Implement best practices and lessons learned into future program phases and company-wide initiatives.

Required Experience and Skills

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in program or project management, project engineering or control account management (CAM) in the aerospace or defense industry. Technical expertise in solid rocket motor design, development, and manufacturing highly desired.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (e.g., Aerospace, Mechanical) or a related field. A Master's degree or PMP certification is advantageous.
• Experience in proposal development and management in a relevant field.
• Strong understanding of project management principles, methodologies, and tools.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.

Location Requirements

• Vicinity of existing X-Bow offices to include Salt Lake City, UT; Luling, TX; Huntsville, AL; Sacramento, CA

About X-Bow Systems

X-Bow Launch Systems, Inc. (pronounced "Crossbow") is a U.S. defense technology and rocket propulsion company that has developed an innovative, low-cost method to manufacture solid rocket motors. Our propulsion technology, space launch capabilities, and modular boost platforms make us unique and highly desirable aerospace supplier to the defense and national security industries.

ITAR Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., a protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.