Program Director

AeroVironment • Herndon, VA

5d

About The Position

AV is seeking an experienced Program Director to lead a cross-functional team in the development and delivery of a complex integrated air and missile defense architecture supporting our nation’s defense mission. The successful candidate must have prior military experience with a focus on operational and acquisition roles, providing essential insight and expertise required to lead defense programs effectively. The ideal candidate will also have proven leadership of large, multi-disciplinary teams and full Profit & Loss (P&L) responsibility for multi-million-dollar program portfolios. This role requires expert execution of defense acquisition programs leveraging formal program management processes, rigorous risk management, and stakeholder engagement to deliver high-impact capabilities on time and within budget.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering/Computer Science or related field is required or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
• Minimum of 7 – 10 years of directly related program management experience
• Minimum of 5 – 7 years' People management of Project and Program Managers
• Prior military service with operational and acquisition experience is mandatory, providing essential knowledge critical to this role.
• Experience working on integrated air and missile defense and/or CUAS systems and 10+ years of leadership experience managing complex defense programs with P&L responsibility.
• Deep experience in C2 systems and mission solutions integration
• Experience in integrated air and missile defense systems or closely related defense systems.
• Familiarity with DoD acquisition processes, MIL-STD-881F WBS standards, and formal program management documentation.
• Demonstrated ability to lead large, cross-functional teams and interface effectively with government and industry stakeholders.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office and program management tools.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree in Organizational Leadership, Business, Engineering, or related discipline.
• Experience with Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS), integrated master scheduling, and defense financial reporting tools.
• DAWIA certifications or equivalent program management credentials.
• Knowledge of emerging missile technologies such as kinetic and non-kinetic systems, C2 enhancements, and sensor technologies.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage large-scale integrated air and missile defense programs including multi layered CUAS solutions from initiation through sustainment, ensuring cost, schedule, and technical performance, P&L accountability, and alignment with strategic objectives.
• Develop, present, and maintain key program management documentation, including: Program Kickoff Plans establishing personnel, processes, tools, and immediate milestones to accelerate program start-up.
• Work Breakdown Structures (WBS) compliant with MIL-STD-881F, linking all elements to weapon system specifications to enable clear traceability and control.
• Program Management Plans (PMPs) defining quality standards, deliverable schedules, and program execution approaches tailored to each phase of performance.
• Participate in proposal development to support additional work scope and manage pre-award performance to budget.
• Facilitate negotiations involving major project parameters such as deliverable definition and performance objectives (cost, schedule, quality).
• Manage integrated master schedules and earned value metrics, leading risk identification and mitigation efforts.
• Identify and manage project risks, issues, and opportunities.
• Oversee resources including personnel, facilities, budgets, and schedules to meet performance requirements and commitments.
• Report program status and performance metrics to program leadership and customers.
• Coordinate multi-company and government teams to ensure seamless execution of technical, financial, contractual, and logistical program aspects.
• Direct proposal efforts, contract negotiations, and compliance monitoring consistent with DoD and defense industry best practices.
• Provide regular briefings and updates to senior government leadership, industry executives, and international stakeholders.

Benefits

• AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown.

What This Job Offers

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