Senior Program Manager

Lumira Search; California (MO); On-site; Full time

Job summary

A rapidly scaling space technology company is in search of a Senior Technical Program Manager to oversee complex spacecraft and hardware development programs. With over 8 years of experience in aerospace, candidates should have strong knowledge of systems engineering and be able to influence stakeholders effectively. The role involves managing end-to-end execution of initiatives from concept through launch readiness, leading cross-disciplinary teams, and proactively mitigating technical risks. This position is crucial for achieving production milestones within a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in aerospace or high-reliability hardware programs.
• Strong understanding of spacecraft development lifecycles.
• Experience in fast-paced or growth-stage environments.

Responsibilities

• Drive execution of spacecraft and hardware development.
• Lead program across multidisciplinary engineering teams.
• Identify and mitigate programmatic and technical risks.

Skills

Program management

Systems engineering

Risk management

Stakeholder influence

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Job description

Senior Technical Program Manager – Space Systems

Our client is a rapidly scaling, venture-backed space technology company developing advanced satellite platforms and high-reliability hardware for commercial and government missions. With multiple programs transitioning from development into qualification and production, the company is seeking a Senior Technical Program Manager to drive execution across its most critical system-level initiatives.

What You’ll Do:

• Own end-to-end execution of complex spacecraft and hardware development programs from concept through launch readiness.
• Serve as the primary program lead across multidisciplinary engineering teams, ensuring alignment across systems, mechanical, electrical, software, manufacturing, and supply chain.
• Develop and maintain integrated master schedules, resource plans, and risk management frameworks.
• Drive technical trade discussions and ensure program decisions are aligned with cost, schedule, and performance objectives.
• Lead design reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR), test readiness reviews, and executive program reporting.
• Proactively identify programmatic and technical risks, implementing mitigation strategies early.
• Partner with finance and operations to manage budgets, forecasting, and production ramp planning.
• Act as a key interface with customers, partners, and senior leadership, translating technical complexity into clear program status.

What We’re Looking For:

• 8+ years of experience managing complex aerospace, space, or high-reliability hardware programs.
• Strong understanding of spacecraft development lifecycles, systems engineering principles, and qualification processes.
• Demonstrated experience leading programs through major milestones (design, integration, test, launch, or production ramp).
• Experience operating in fast-paced, growth-stage or NewSpace environments.
• Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders and lead without direct authority.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related technical field (Master’s preferred).

If this sounds like a role you’d like to explore, please reach out for a confidential conversation.