Senior Space Payloads Program Lead

Leidos; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 154,000 - 278,000; Full time

Job summary

Leidos in San Diego, CA is seeking a Space Payload Program Manager to lead end-to-end space payload programs from concept through delivery, coordinating with cross-functional teams and government customers to meet aggressive schedules and DoD requirements.

The role emphasizes managing cost, schedule, risk, and subcontractor performance, mentoring junior staff, and ensuring compliant security and quality standards while delivering mission-critical space payloads.

Qualifications

• Active DoD Secret clearance or higher and ability to obtain TS/SCI.
• Bachelor’s degree plus 17+ years of relevant experience or Master’s with 15+ years.
• Experience managing firm fixed price development programs $100M+.
• Proven background in aerospace/defense with electro/optical product design, development, test.
• Strong PM skills: cost (EVM), schedule, customer engagement, FFP contracts.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end management of space payload programs from concept to delivery.
• Oversee development, testing, and integration with cross-functional teams.
• Establish program management processes (WBS, IMS, risk, EVM).
• Capture new business via RFIs/BOEs and approve proposals.
• Negotiate SOW/TCs and pricing with subcontractors/customers.
• Serve as primary client contact; report on status, risks, issues.
• Develop detailed program plans, schedules, and budgets; apply corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with DoD security, quality standards; manage risk.
• Mentor junior PMs; foster continuous improvement.
• Coordinate with subcontractors for timely delivery; staff appropriately.
• Work with subcontract program manager to ensure on-time delivery.
• Oversee payload development, manufacturing, assembly, and test.

Skills

Program management

DoD program experience

Electro-optical systems

Risk management

Earned Value Management (EVM)

Customer engagement

Leadership

Team mentorship

Education

Bachelor’s degree or Master’s degree

Tools

FFP contracts

SOW/T&Cs negotiation

Job description

Leidos in San Diego, CA is seeking a Space Payload Program Manager to lead end-to-end space payload programs from concept through delivery, coordinating with cross-functional teams and government customers to meet aggressive schedules and DoD requirements.

The role emphasizes managing cost, schedule, risk, and subcontractor performance, mentoring junior staff, and ensuring compliant security and quality standards while delivering mission-critical space payloads.