Program Lab Operations Manager

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

5d•$84,600 - $126,900•Onsite

About The Position

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space. The Defense Systems Group (DSG) provides analysis-based decision support to senior leaders on space architectures, policy and strategy, technology development, warfighter capability enablers, systems integration, defense industrial base, and threat reduction to help shape existing and future space missions across the national security space (NSS) enterprise. DSG is unique at Aerospace as it not only directly supports major customers, including the U.S. Space Force, U.S. Space Command, Air Force Materiel Command, and senior leadership at the Pentagon, but also provides a broad range of technical support across the national space enterprise, maintaining vertical responsibilities with customers’ portfolios as well as horizontal, matrixed responsibilities across the corporation. Additionally, DSG provides deep technical expertise to the Space Force Space Systems Command (SSC) in the conception, design, acquisition, launch and operations of satellite, launch vehicle, ground control, and range systems. STARS, the Spacelift Telemetry Acquisition and Reporting System, is a networked, distributed processing system used to acquire, process, analyze, display, and archive launch vehicle telemetry and other data for vehicle checkout and launch activities. We are seeking a Program Lab Operations Manager to serve as the operational backbone of the STARS Mission Operations Center. Reporting directly to the STARS Systems Director, you will be responsible for the coordination, tracking, and visibility of all program operations across our three sites, supporting a team of 20-30 people. This role requires exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple competing priorities in a fast-paced, mission-critical environment. You will manage budget tracking, asset inventory, procurement processes, and launch schedule coordination while serving as a key communication hub between our technical team, program office, customers, and corporate stakeholders. The ideal candidate is a self-starter who can quickly learn complex systems and processes, proactively identify gaps, and implement solutions that improve operational efficiency and visibility. While this role has some administrative elements, it is firmly rooted in program and project management, requiring someone who can think strategically about resource allocation, schedule impacts, and cross-functional coordination to ensure STARS is always ready to support launch operations. The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our Aerospace Technical Campus in El Segundo, CA.

Requirements

5 or more years of professional experience in program operations, project coordination, or similar operational management roles
Proven ability to manage multiple complex workstreams simultaneously with strong attention to detail
Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize effectively
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience coordinating across diverse stakeholder groups
Experience with budget tracking, procurement processes, and inventory management
Familiarity with asset management systems and automated inventory tracking tools
Experience with Jira, Confluence, or similar project management and collaboration tools
Knowledge of government contracting, procurement regulations, or compliance requirements
Demonstrated ability to work independently, take initiative, and solve problems proactively
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook)
Ability to quickly learn new systems, processes, and technical concepts
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships across technical and non-technical teams
Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance, issued by the US government
US citizenship is required to obtain a security security clearance

Nice To Haves

Experience with Microsoft Power Automate or other workflow automation tools
Background in aerospace, defense, or mission-critical operations environments
Active Secret security clearance
Experience supporting launch operations, mission assurance, or similar time-sensitive programs
Experience implementing process improvements or automation that increased operational efficiency
Experience with data visualization or dashboard creation for executive reporting
Demonstrated ability to create and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs)
Background working in a program office or matrix organization with multiple stakeholders

Responsibilities

Manage SPPE (Special Project Plant and Equipment) requests for big-ticket items ($5K+), coordinating procurement and tracking through completion
Maintain and update asset inventory across all three STARS sites, ensuring accurate records and accountability
Update and manage task tickets for STARS readiness reviews prior to every launch support
Track maintenance schedules, initiate maintenance renewals, and order new maintenance as needed to ensure platform reliability
Order parts and equipment as required to support operations
Track and update launch program calendars, including launches, integrated crew exercises, mission dress rehearsals, and review boards
Provide budget tracking and visibility across all WBS (work order numbers), producing reports and identifying variances
Support the STARS Systems Director in tracking outstanding items and tasks, including shipment tracking, hardware disposal, and technical task schedule impacts
Serve as the primary communication liaison between the STARS technical team and end users (program office and customers)
Coordinate with corporate stakeholders on tours and events held at STARS facilities
Work with the administrative team to ensure proper staffing levels for launch supports as part of readiness reviews
Identify opportunities to improve operational processes, visibility, and efficiency
Maintain organized documentation and records for audits, reviews, and historical reference

Benefits

Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
Flexible spending accounts
Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
Relocation assistance
Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
Education assistance programs
An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect