Program Manager, Defense Systems

X-Bow Launch Systems Inc.; Luling (TX); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

X-Bow Launch Systems, Inc. is seeking a Program Manager to lead rocket motor development and production programs from initial customer engagement through delivery.

The role requires strong PM discipline, leadership across engineering, manufacturing, QA and supply chain, and the ability to resolve complex program challenges with minimal oversight in a fast-paced defense environment. Qualifications include 5+ years in aerospace program management, a technical engineering degree, and experience

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in program or project management, project engineering or CAM in aerospace/defense.
• Bachelor's in Engineering; master's or PMP is advantageous.
• Experience in proposal development and management.

Responsibilities

• Develop comprehensive program plans outlining goals, timelines, resources, and budgets.
• Oversee execution to deliver projects on time, within scope and budget.
• Lead cross-functional teams across engineering, manufacturing, quality, and supply chain.
• Communicate progress and risks to stakeholders; ensure transparency and collaboration.
• Identify, analyze, and mitigate program risks and resolve complex issues.
• Ensure activities comply with standards, regulations, and ITAR requirements.

Skills

Program management

Aerospace/defense

Leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Master's degree or PMP

Job description

Program Manager

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.
  
  
  
  


• Continuous Improvement:
  
  
  
  • 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.