Program Manager, Space and Mission Systems

Viasat, Inc. • Carlsbad, CA

5d • Onsite

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 apply commercial technologies to quickly deliver transformative Warfighter operational capabilities. We continuously evolve these 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 coordinated space missions. As a Program Manager, you will lead multiple, concurrent initiatives to develop and deliver pioneering satellite communication solutions for space vehicles at all orbit regimes. The ideal candidate will build and maintain strong customer relationships. They will lead complex development efforts and ensure successful program execution by managing expenses, timelines, and hazards. They will drive proposal activities and champion continuous improvement.

Requirements

• A minimum of seven (7) years of progressive professional experience in program management or project management execution roles for complex technical development programs.
• Demonstrated experience in cost, schedule, and performance management using EVM, variance analysis, risk management, and program dashboards.
• Experience with U.S. Government contracting and execution of development programs.
• Experience managing supplier relationships throughout the subcontract management lifecycle, including Statement of Work (SOW) development, performance tracking, and resolving partner concerns.
• Demonstrated ability to build and lead cross functional teams.
• 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 collaborators.
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, scientific studies, or a related technical field, or equivalent experience.
• U.S. citizenship and active Secret Clearance required.

Nice To Haves

• Active U.S. Government security clearance, with SSBI/SCI eligibility.
• Program Management Professional (PMP) certification or equivalent.
• Master’s degree in relevant engineering, science, or business field, with equivalent experience also accepted.
• Experience supporting competitive and/or sole-source U.S. Government proposals.
• Understanding of systems engineering, integration, production, or sustainment for defense systems.
• Experience supporting fully integrated space mission development programs, including space vehicle, ground segment, and operations.
• Experience supporting payload and/or electronics development for space systems.
• Experience performing first‑order, system‑level analyses to inform technical and programmatic decisions.

Responsibilities

• Apply earned value management (EVM) and risk management fields to effectively plan, monitor, and control program budget, timeline, and outcomes.
• Collaborate with functional and matrixed leadership to ensure timely and appropriate allocation of personnel and resources in support of program execution.
• Provide program direction and oversight of subcontractor procurement and 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 collaborators.
• Support capture and business development activities by leading proposal cost estimates and contributing program management and execution content.

Benefits

• range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered
• comprehensive benefit offerings that are focused on your holistic health and wellness

What This Job Offers

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