Technical Program Manager

Karman Space & Defense; Mukilteo (WA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid time off

Health Savings Account (HSA) with com

Job summary

Karman Space & Defense is seeking a role that leads complex aerospace and defense programs from planning through delivery, ensuring technical, schedule, and contractual commitments are met. You will guide cross-functional engineering teams, drive program execution, manage cost and risk, and maintain direct customer and internal stakeholder communication.

The role supports mission-critical capabilities across high-priority defense initiatives and requires a Bachelor's in a related field with 5+

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field.
• Experience leading cross-functional engineering teams and complex aerospace programs.

Responsibilities

• Lead complex aerospace and defense programs from planning through delivery.

Skills

Cross-functional leadership

Program planning

Cost/schedule/risk management

Leadership of engineering teams

Education

Bachelor's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering

Master's degree or MBA (preferred)

Tools

Project management tools

Job description

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next-generation system solutions that align with the U.S. Department of War and its allies’ core mission priorities, and meet the accelerating demand for access to space. Building on nearly 50 years of success, we deliver Payload & Protection Systems, Aero/Hydrodynamic Interstage Systems, and Propulsion & Launch Systems to more than 80 prime contractors supporting over 130 space and defense programs.

This role supports our Defense Systems business, bringing together Hypersonics, Strategic Missile Defense, Tactical Missiles, and Integrated Defense Systems. Modern defense missions demand more than piecemeal parts or patchwork products; they require hardware that seamlessly integrates disparate technologies into a unified system. Backed by decades of flight-proven performance, our teams deliver tailored mission-ready solutions across air, land, and sea, including: launch and deployment systems, propulsion, payload protection, integration and deployment.

In this role, you will lead complex aerospace and defense programs from planning through delivery, ensuring technical, schedule, and contractual commitments are met. You will guide cross-functional engineering teams, drive program execution, manage cost and risk, and maintain direct communication with customers and internal stakeholders. Your work enables successful program outcomes and supports mission-critical capabilities across high-priority defense initiatives.

Schedule

• This role follows a 9/80 schedule, with 9-hour shifts Monday through Thursday, an 8-hour shift every other Friday, and the alternating Friday off.

Responsibilities

• Leads cross-functional engineering teams in the design, development, analysis, and testing of mechanical and pyrotechnic components and systems.
• Manages program scope, cost, schedule, and technical performance while balancing competing priorities.
• Coordinates customer communication to maintain alignment on technical and program objectives.
• Facilitates program planning, technical decision-making, and change management across engineering teams.
• Tracks program performance using key metrics and proactively identifies risks and mitigation actions.
• Supports technical reviews and program milestone reviews.
• Ensures complete and accurate documentation, including drawings, reports, and presentations.
• Partners with Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Quality Assurance, Contracts, and Finance to ensure successful program delivery.
• Coordinates proposal efforts, capture activities, and transitions from business development to program execution.
• Supports business development through proposal writing and participation in new business meetings.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related technical field.
• At least 5 years of engineering experience, including a minimum of 2 years in aerospace engineering or systems engineering.
• Demonstrated ability to develop, plan, and execute projects.
• Demonstrated experience leading cross-functional engineering teams.
• Experience managing cost, schedule, scope, and technical risks.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in a related technical field or a Master of Business Administration (MBA).
• At least 2 years of experience managing complex technical programs in defense, aerospace, or government technology sectors.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
Company-paid life and AD&D insurance