Strategic Senior Principal Program Manager — Defense Programs

Mercury Systems; Oxnard (CA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Mercury Systems is seeking an experienced Senior Principal Program Manager to strengthen its program team supporting Microwave Amplification projects. The role leads multiple IPTs, manages budgets and schedules, and liaises with customers and vendors to deliver compliant, cost-effective solutions.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years in DoD programs, strong leadership and negotiation skills, and the ability to navigate complex contracts while driving continuous improvement and capture activities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in STEM and related field. MBA or certifications add value.
• Typically 10+ years of execution experience with US DoD (DFARS).
• Experience managing complex technical programs across commercial and defense markets.
• Ability to oversee broad portfolios including hardware, software, and manufacturing.
• U.S. government security clearance eligibility required.

Responsibilities

• Manage performance of multiple programs within Microwave Amplification.
• Lead cross-functional IPT teams from design to release.
• Oversee schedules, budgets, and program plans; develop deliverables.
• Engage with customers, vendors, and internal functions; negotiate contracts.
• Drive Lean and continuous improvement to instill Lean culture.
• Coordinate with pricing, contracts, and finance to meet proposal timelines.
• Support strategic captures and growth strategies with senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Negotiation

Program management

Lean

Communication

Education

Bachelor's Degree in STEM

MBA (preferred)

PMP

CPCM/CFCM (or similar)

Job description

Mercury Systems is seeking an experienced Senior Principal Program Manager to strengthen its program team supporting Microwave Amplification projects. The role leads multiple IPTs, manages budgets and schedules, and liaises with customers and vendors to deliver compliant, cost-effective solutions.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years in DoD programs, strong leadership and negotiation skills, and the ability to navigate complex contracts while driving continuous improvement and capture activities.