Program Director

Viasat, Inc.•Carlsbad, CA

11d

About The Position

Viasat combines experienced leadership, advanced technology, operational agility, and a strong culture of innovation to address the world’s most complex communications challenges. Through bold and differentiated business models, we leverage commercial technologies to rapidly deliver transformative Warfighter operational capabilities and continuously evolve those solutions to maintain advantage against emerging adversary threats. We employ a customer‑centric approach to address complex challenges through innovative, scalable solutions delivered on accelerated timelines. Viasat’s Government Space and Mission Systems business area supports a diverse portfolio that includes RF and optical communications, advanced sensing payloads, and fully integrated space missions. As a Senior Program Manager, you will lead multiple, concurrent initiatives to develop and deliver state-of-the-art satellite communication systems leveraging small, maneuverable geostationary orbit (GEO) space vehicles. The ideal candidate will build and maintain strong customer relationships, lead complex development efforts, ensure successful program execution through disciplined cost, schedule, and risk management, drive proposal activities, and champion continuous improvement. The Program Director will lead a highly capable, cross‑functional team responsible for the development, deployment, and operations of GEO space vehicle and its associated ground segment.

Requirements

A minimum of ten (10) years of progressive professional experience in program management or project execution roles.
Demonstrated experience in program planning and control, earned value management (EVM), risk management, and contract execution.
Proven ability to work independently to define and resolve complex problems, anticipate future program needs, and establish meaningful metrics to measure success.
Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and effectively to diverse stakeholders.
Ability to contribute as a thought leader and mentor, supporting the development of others and the resolution of complex challenges.
Bachelor’s degree in engineering, science, or a related technical discipline.

Nice To Haves

Active U.S. Government security clearance, with SSBI/SCI eligibility.
Program Management Professional (PMP) certification or equivalent.
Master’s degree in a relevant engineering, science, or business discipline.
Experience supporting payload and/or electronics development for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) applications.
Experience performing first‑order, system‑level analyses for communication systems to inform technical and programmatic decisions.
Experience supporting fully integrated space mission development programs, including space vehicle, ground segment, and operations.

Responsibilities

Apply earned value management (EVM) and risk management disciplines to effectively plan, monitor, and control program cost, schedule, and performance.
Collaborate with functional and matrixed leadership to ensure timely and appropriate allocation of personnel and resources in support of program execution.
Develop Statements of Work (SOW) and oversee subcontractor performance to ensure alignment with program technical, schedule, and financial objectives.
Provide accurate, timely program execution, financial status, and risk reporting to senior leadership and key stakeholders.
Support capture and business development activities by contributing to business model and capability roadmap development and leading all aspects of proposal development, including strategy, cost estimation, and program execution content.