PRODUCTION PROGRAM MANAGER (R&D)
About The Position
The R&D Production Program Manager is responsible for driving execution across the engineering product development lifecycle for aerospace and defense programs—from concept, design, and prototyping through qualification, production transition, and sustained manufacturing. This role requires a technical leader with a strong background in Department of Defense (DoD) and/or aerospace programs, capable of balancing engineering rigor with program management excellence. The successful candidate will be a proactive, hands on contributor who manages and performs engineering and program tasks related to pneumatic, mechanical, and electro mechanical components, assemblies, and systems of varying complexity.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, manufacturing, or a related technical field.
- 5+ years of experience in R&D, product development, advanced manufacturing, or program management.
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, prototype builds, and new product introduction (NPI).
- Proven ability to manage complex, multi disciplinary programs.
- Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.
- Experience with program management tools, scheduling software, and engineering documentation systems.
- Ability to work in a fast paced environment with shifting priorities and technical ambiguity.
Nice To Haves
- Previous experience supporting DoD acquisition programs and/or aerospace systems development.
- Familiarity with AS9100, MIL-STD-810, or other DoD and Aerospace quality and compliance standards.
- Experience with ERP systems, preferably SAP.
- Knowledge of airborne weapon systems and /or weapon carriage equipment is strongly desirable.
Responsibilities
- Lead cross functional programs focused on developing and industrializing new products, processes, materials, or production capabilities.
- Build and maintain detailed program schedules, budgets, resource plans, and risk assessments.
- Drive execution of prototype fabrication and early stage manufacturing activities, ensuring readiness for scale up.
- Collaborate with production, fabrication, and assembly teams to ensure manufacturability, repeatability, and efficient transfer of new technologies into production workflows.
- Monitor program performance and provide regular status updates, dashboards, and reports to leadership and stakeholders.
- Facilitate design reviews, technical discussions, and issue resolution meetings.
- Identify program risks, develop mitigation strategies, and lead corrective action efforts as needed.
- Ensure compliance with quality standards, safety requirements, and regulatory guidelines during development and pilot production phases.
- Manage supplier engagement for prototype parts, testing, and new technology introduction.
- Support continuous improvement by capturing lessons learned and integrating best practices into future programs.
Benefits
- EEO/Disability/Vets Employer
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
