Director, Program Manager- Advanced Flight Systems Development

Stratolaunch- Huntsville • Huntsville, AL

1d • $194,000 - $227,500 • Onsite

About The Position

Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air-launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security.
To achieve these great efforts, Stratolaunch is seeking a Program Manager with relevant experience to lead approximately 40% of the development effort for an operational missile system. This program leadership role is responsible for the successful execution of complex, multidisciplinary projects across multiple companies. The role spans the design, manufacturing, and testing of missile subsystems. Stratolaunch’s scope includes Systems Engineering, GNC flight software, and Electrical Subsystems. A candidate for this role must be comfortable leading cross-functional teams in a strong matrixed environment and driving the execution of highly complex technical projects. A strong candidate will be able to make difficult programmatic decisions in an environment where not all desired information is available.

Requirements

• Experience in technical and/or program management roles, with at least 5 years in a senior- or principal-level leadership role within the aerospace, defense, or high-technology sectors.
• A strong sense of urgency, with the ability to make tough decisions in a technical environment.
• Demonstrated success managing large, complex, multidisciplinary programs.
• Experience developing operational missile systems.
• Extensive experience in aerospace program management, subcontracts and procurement, personnel management, aircraft systems, aircraft operations, launch vehicle integration, and ground systems.
• Proven track record of technical leadership, including oversight of subcontractors and experience transitioning from prototype to rate production.
• Advanced risk management expertise and experience with classified programs.
• Exceptional facilitation, negotiation, and executive communication skills.
• Strong analytical, strategic-thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
• Willingness and ability to obtain and maintain a TS (Top Secret) security clearance.
• Demonstrated ability to lead in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and drive organizational change.
• Experience working directly with government agencies, regulatory bodies, and major defense contractors.
• Advanced proficiency in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint).
• MS Project and other advanced project management tools.
• Bachelor’s degree (B.A. or B.S.) or higher and 20+ years of relevant program management experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Nice To Haves

• PMP, PgMP, or equivalent advanced project/program management certification.
• Experience with classified program execution and secure environments.
• Air-launch, launch vehicle, and/or aircraft integration program experience.
• Active security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Act as the Program Manager, representing Stratolaunch as the singular point of contact (POC) to the prime organization.
• Lead a cross-functional team spanning engineering, manufacturing, and ground and flight testing to support the development of a new missile system.
• Drive the team to meet schedule and budget goals while also achieving all technical requirements.
• Oversee the execution of multiple projects with full responsibility for cost, schedule, technical performance, risk management, and customer satisfaction.
• Make high-impact decisions affecting program direction, resource allocation, and risk posture.
• Lead Stratolaunch schedule development, including risk mitigation planning.
• Lead program forecasting and budgeting activities, ensuring accurate financial planning and alignment with organizational goals.
• Drive the adoption of advanced program management processes, tools, and best practices.
• Manage revenue recognition and contract invoicing processes, ensuring compliance with accounting standards and timely billing.
• Monitor and report on program financial performance, proactively addressing variances and risks.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for the prime customer, government agencies, and strategic partners.
• Negotiate complex contracts, manage high-level customer relationships, and ensure alignment with customer objectives and expectations.
• Oversee program risk management, compliance, and governance activities, including classified program execution and security requirements.
• Ensure adherence to all regulatory, contractual, and quality standards.
• Foster a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Lead cross-functional teams, including engineering, operations, procurement, finance, and legal, to ensure seamless program execution.
• Champion overall team growth and development, including talent acquisition, onboarding, training, and professional advancement.
• Develop and manage senior-level talent pipelines and succession planning to support long-term organizational objectives.
• Promote team engagement, collaboration, and high performance through effective communication and recognition programs.
• Implement organizational development initiatives to enhance team capabilities and drive business results.
• Provide regular, comprehensive program status reports and executive briefings to company leadership.
• Communicate program vision, goals, and progress to internal and external stakeholders.
• Domestic and occasional international travel, as required, to support program and company objectives.

Benefits

• 9/80 schedule
• Healthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs)
• Paid Maternity and Parental Leave
• 50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan, up to $11,500
• Tuition reimbursement

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director