Senior Program Manager, Defense Systems & ITAR

AV; Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 117,000 - 178,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

401K with company matching

9/80 work schedule

Paid holiday shutdown

Job summary

AV is seeking a Lead Program Manager for the LEAP group within MacCready Works to oversee computer vision/perception programs for defense and commercial applications. The role combines individual contribution with team leadership across proposal, contract negotiations, execution, and close‑out.

The PM will manage staffing, budgets, schedules, progress, and risks while serving as the primary contact for customers and internal teams. Strong cross‑functional collaboration is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, science, business required; equivalent education/experience considered.
• 8–10 years of relevant program management experience; DoD/DoW or government contracts experience a plus.
• Ability to design, implement, and troubleshoot complex systems.
• Proven track record of running multiple, successful projects.
• Experience managing CPFF, T&M, and FFP development programs.
• Experience developing risk management & mitigation plans.
• Experience in a highly technical and dynamic environment.
• Familiarity with contracts, NDAs, teaming agreements, and export/import licenses is a plus.
• Ability to interface effectively with internal teams, leadership, and customers.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Manages multiple projects / programs through complete lifecycle.
• Gathers requirements, defines success criteria, and ensures customer alignment.
• Establishes and communicates program priorities.
• Develops and maintains program plans including budgets and EAC, spend, and resource allocation.
• Defines and manages program controls; identifies and manages risk.
• Coordinates with other PMs to align teams and dependencies.
• Informs stakeholders of program status and health.
• Leads project meetings and reviews with customers and technical teams.
• Manages changes in scope and advises leadership and customers of potential impacts.
• Supports growth of the program, including bidding and capturing new opportunities.
• Assists with preparation of cost and technical proposals.
• Ensures adherence to company policies and processes.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Program management

Team leadership

Risk management

Customer engagement

MS Office / MS Project

Proposal development

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering, science, business

Tools

MS Project

Job description

AV is seeking a Lead Program Manager for the LEAP group within MacCready Works to oversee computer vision/perception programs for defense and commercial applications. The role combines individual contribution with team leadership across proposal, contract negotiations, execution, and close‑out.

The PM will manage staffing, budgets, schedules, progress, and risks while serving as the primary contact for customers and internal teams. Strong cross‑functional collaboration is essential.