Program Manager, Space & Mission Systems

Viasat, Inc. • Carlsbad, CA

3d

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 Program Manager, you will lead multiple, concurrent initiatives. 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.

Requirements

• A minimum of six (6) 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.
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, science, or a related technical discipline.
• U.S. citizenship.
• Ability and willingness to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance.

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

• Lead multiple, concurrent initiatives.
• Build and maintain strong customer relationships.
• Lead complex development efforts.
• Ensure successful program execution through disciplined cost, schedule, and risk management.
• Drive proposal activities.
• Champion continuous improvement.
• Lead a highly capable, cross‑functional team responsible for the development and delivery of advanced satellite communications solutions.
• 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 (SOWs) 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 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