Program Manager, Special Projects

Albers Aerospace • McKinney, TX

8h

About The Position

The Program Manager, Special Projects, is accountable for the execution of high-priority, technically complex aerospace/defense initiatives—often with evolving scope, aggressive timelines, and minimal predefined structure. This role owns program outcomes end-to-end, translating strategic intent into executable plans and driving cross-functional teams to deliver.
This role will operate as the central integrator across engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and leadership—ensuring programs move with urgency, risks are actively managed, and commitments are met without adding unnecessary process or overhead.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Science, Business, or related field
• 5–7+ years of program or project management experience in aerospace, defense, or advanced technology environments
• Demonstrated success delivering complex, cross-functional programs under tight timelines
• Strong working knowledge of aerospace manufacturing, development, or production environments
• Ability to interpret and manage contracts, scope, cost, and schedule tradeoffs
• Proven ability to operate effectively in ambiguous, fast-changing environments
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with sound judgment under pressure
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence across technical teams and leadership
• Must be a U.S citizen.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in Special Projects, R&D, prototyping, or skunkworks-style teams
• Familiarity with military or commercial aerospace contracting and procurement
• Background engaging directly with executive stakeholders on critical initiatives
• PMP or equivalent certification (valued, but not a substitute for execution capability)
• Advanced degree (MS/MBA)

Responsibilities

• Own full lifecycle execution of Special Projects programs—from concept definition through delivery
• Translate loosely defined objectives into structured program plans, milestones, and measurable outcomes
• Build and maintain integrated schedules that reflect real-world constraints across engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain
• Drive cross-functional alignment and decision-making in a fast-paced, high-ambiguity environment
• Identify program risks early and lead mitigation efforts before they impact cost, schedule, or performance
• Maintain accountability for program cost, schedule, and technical performance—taking corrective action when needed
• Serve as the primary interface with internal leadership and external stakeholders for program status, risks, and decisions
• Lead program reviews with clear, actionable communication—focused on outcomes, not status reporting
• Manage scope changes pragmatically, balancing customer needs with execution realities
• Establish lightweight, scalable program management practices that improve speed without introducing bureaucracy
• Support capture of follow-on opportunities and new work emerging from Special Projects programs

What This Job Offers

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