Senior Defense Program Lead: Complex Programs & Stakeholders

Socket.dev; Tampa (FL); On-site; USD 150,000 - 230,000; Full time

Job summary

Paligen Aerospace and Defense is seeking a Senior Program Manager to lead large, defense-related programs from inception through completion. You will guide cross-functional teams and coordinate with government officials, suppliers, and customers to meet schedule and cost targets.

This role requires extensive program management experience within the defense sector, deep regulatory knowledge (ITAR/DFARS/FAR), and a proven ability to deliver programs on time and within budget.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or related field.
• 10+ years of program management experience in defense.
• Familiarity with ITAR, DFARS, and FAR regulations.
• Experience managing large programs with budgets over $100M.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work in fast-paced environments.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with ERP, Visio, and Project tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, execution, and delivery of complex defense programs.
• Establish and maintain relationships with customers, partners, and stakeholders.
• Oversee scope, schedule, budget, and risk management of programs.
• Mentor cross-functional teams across engineering, operations, finance, and supply chain.
• Develop and manage program budgets and forecasts; identify cost savings.
• Identify and mitigate program risks; ensure regulatory compliance.
• Prepare and deliver program status reports; maintain documentation.
• Represent Paligen Aerospace and Defense in external engagements.
• Travel as needed to support sites and suppliers.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Stakeholder management

Budget management

Regulatory compliance ITAR/DFARS/FAR

Communication

Data-driven decisions

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration

Master's degree (MBA/Engineering)

Tools

ERP systems

Microsoft Project

Visio

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Paligen Aerospace and Defense is seeking a Senior Program Manager to lead large, defense-related programs from inception through completion. You will guide cross-functional teams and coordinate with government officials, suppliers, and customers to meet schedule and cost targets.

This role requires extensive program management experience within the defense sector, deep regulatory knowledge (ITAR/DFARS/FAR), and a proven ability to deliver programs on time and within budget.