Sr. Special Programs & Government Security Solutions Manager

Watlow; St. Louis (MO); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual Incentive Program

401(k) plan with company match

Wellness incentives

Dental, medical, vision, and disability insurance

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Watlow is looking for a Sr. Special Programs & Government Security Solutions Manager in St. Louis, Missouri, to strengthen compliance efforts with government and defense clients. You will lead programs, ensuring adherence to regulations and fostering stakeholder relationships.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's degree, at least 7 years of experience, and the capability to hold a SECRET clearance. Watlow offers competitive compensation, wellness incentives, and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7–10 years of experience in government and defense sectors.
• Experience with federal and state government contracts.
• Ability to obtain a SECRET or TOP SECRET/SCI clearance.

Responsibilities

• Support compliance with government, aerospace, and defense contracts.
• Manage stakeholder relationships to enhance project execution.
• Engage with governmental agencies for procurement and audits.

Skills

Compliance leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Strong communication skills

Negotiation skills

Project execution

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business or engineering

Job description

Overview

Watlow is a global technology and manufacturing leader that provides world class engineering expertise through innovative thermal products and systems. We are a positive force with over 100 years of breakthrough thermal solutions. Our corporate values guide us to always do the right thing, continually learn and improve, respect everyone, and lead with service and humility.

At Watlow’s Global Headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri, we combine a rich legacy with forward-thinking innovation. Founded in 1922, Watlow has grown from a small heating element manufacturer into a global leader in thermal systems. Our headquarters is a hub for collaboration, advanced engineering, and customer-focused solutions.

We are hiring a: Sr. Special Programs & Government Security Solutions Manager (St. Louis, MO onsite).

What you’ll do

• Support Watlow’s strategic compliance efforts and strengthen relationships with key government, aerospace, and defense customers. Serve as a compliance leader and program steward, identifying requirements, monitoring changes, and ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
• Support client relationships and contribute to excellence in project execution within the government and defense sectors. Focus areas include DFAR/FAR compliance, CUI/CDI/CMMC, aerospace, DoE/DoD/ITAR restricted-access programs, anti-corruption/FCPA program management, and other security-sensitive segments.
• Report to the Assistant General Counsel, Global Trade Compliance, and collaborate with Business Development, Contracts, Cybersecurity, and Global Trade Compliance.
• Compliance Support & Risk Monitoring: Interpret program requirements for defense, aerospace, and sensitive programs; monitor policy trends, risks, and mitigation options.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality solutions and services that meet client needs; participate in benchmarking and industry collaboration.
• Government Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain productive relationships with federal, state, and local government agencies; optimize processes from marketing through bid and award, production, logistics, delivery, and aftermarket support.
• Technology Management & Controls: Support technology management and collaboration tools, including tagging, marking, storage, and access/transfer controls; facilitate cross-border collaboration for restricted-access programs and manage US/non-US requirements.
• Audits & Certifications: Assist with internal audits, self-assessments, and external certification processes; support facilitation of audits and contribute to the maturity of compliance programs.
• Government Registrations & Procurement: Support registrations and procurement (e.g., SAM, VIPERS, DoD Supplier Performance Risk System); assist with licensing and sub-licensing; interface with Global Trade Compliance on ITAR topics as applicable.
• Investigations & Reporting: Support internal investigations and disclosures; assist with mandatory reporting with a focus on transparent communications; support future NISPOM obligations.
• Anti-Corruption & FCPA Program: Contribute to development and maintenance of Watlow’s anti-corruption and FCPA program, including policy implementation, training, risk assessments, and third-party due diligence.

What you’ll need to succeed

• Bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, or a related field
• Minimum 7–10 years of experience supporting business development, account management, compliance, or sales within government and defense sectors
• Experience supporting contracts with federal, state, and local government agencies and defense organizations
• Working knowledge of government procurement processes, contract vehicles, and regulatory requirements including the DPAS system
• Ability to build and maintain productive relationships with stakeholders in government and defense sectors
• Strong communication, negotiation, and presentation skills; ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed
• Due to the nature of this role, this position is open only to United States citizens with the future ability to hold a SECRET or TOP SECRET/SCI clearance

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree, MBA, or law degree
• NISPOM program management experience
• Familiarity with program managers at DOE, FAA, NIST, or NSF
• Prior experience at US government agencies or national laboratories supporting R&D programs

Benefits and Diversity

Benefits: The Watlow Total Rewards Plan includes competitive compensation and a full range of life and career-enhancing benefits, including:

• Annual Incentive Program
• 401(k) plan with company match and annual company contribution tied to performance
• Wellness incentives
• Employee Personal Assistance Program
• Dental, medical, vision, and disability insurance
• Paid holidays, personal time, and vacation
• Parental leave
• Tuition reimbursement

Diversity & Inclusion: Watlow is an inclusive equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. Please contact [e-mail] for special accommodations in the recruiting process.