Program Manager V

General Atomics•Adelanto, CA

About The Position

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems. We have an exciting opportunity for a Director Production Flight Operations This position typically reports to a senior manager or senior program manager and is responsible for the planning, managing and technical performance of one or more significant program(s) or one or more developing engineering program(s) usually contained at one primary location. Oversees all phases of program(s) from initiation through delivery. Directs programs which represent significant future growth in several distinct developing products or components. Applies new technologies or methods to coordinate applications across program requirements. Typically accomplishes objectives through subordinate managers. Responsible for program(s) likely to be a factor in the company's strategic business objectives. May be responsible for decisions where erroneous decisions could cause substantial expenditure of time and resources.

Requirements

Typically requires a Bachelors, Masters or PhD in engineering, science or a related technical field as well as fifteen or more years of program administration experience with at least nine of those years managing programs.
Demonstrates detailed and extensive technical expertise and application of program management principles, concepts, and practice as well as comprehensive program management and leadership skills including organizing, planning, scheduling, and coordinating workloads to meet established deadlines or milestones.
Must be able to develop solutions to complex problems that require the regular use of ingenuity and creativity.
Strong communication, leadership, presentation, and interpersonal skills are required to enable an effective interface with other departments, all levels of management, professional and support staff, customers, potential customers, and government representatives.

Nice To Haves

May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education.
Demonstrated ability to lead, inspire, and motivate cross‑functional teams, creating a high‑performance culture focused on accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Proven track record of developing talent through coaching, mentoring, and providing stretch assignments; identifies and nurtures high‑potential employees to build strong succession pipelines.
Strong strategic thinker with the ability to translate long‑term vision into executable plans, aligning teams and resources around clear priorities and measurable outcomes.
Hands‑on, results‑oriented leadership style grounded in deep functional expertise; willing to engage at both strategic and tactical levels to remove obstacles and drive execution.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence at all levels of the organization and build trusted relationships with customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders.
High level of integrity and commitment to compliance, ensuring that business objectives are achieved in alignment with company values, regulatory requirements, and customer expectations.
Skilled change leader who can navigate ambiguity, lead organizations through transformation, and foster adaptability in dynamic business and program environments.

Responsibilities

Direct all phases of assigned programs from concept through completion, including acquisition, planning, execution, and technical performance, to ensure quality, business, and financial objectives are achieved.
Develop and coordinate new program plans and delivery approaches, often with limited precedent, across distinct products and multiple customers.
Partner with executive leadership to develop and implement current, annual, and long-range technical, schedule, quality, business, and financial objectives for assigned programs; contribute to broader Group/Company objectives with multi‑year impact.
Oversee the establishment of design concepts, technical criteria, and engineering activities for product research, development, testing, and integration.
Interface with senior management on issues of strategic importance and serve as the primary internal point of contact for program-related matters.
Lead and influence the preparation of proposals, business plans, statements of work and specifications, operating budgets, and contract financial terms and conditions; support and influence contract acquisition, negotiation, and modification activities.
Ensure strong technical leadership and organizational excellence by directing and participating in the planning, attraction, selection, retention, and development of key management, professional, and technical talent.
Serve as the primary customer contact for program activities and lead regular program reviews with customers covering cost, schedule, and technical performance.
Proactively identify program risks and issues and provide leadership in developing and implementing solutions, including resource reallocation and contract or scope adjustments.
Lead the pursuit and development of new business opportunities and the expansion of existing programs; collaborate with Group leadership on partnerships, alliances, and joint ventures that enhance capabilities and create new products, programs, and revenue streams.
Direct the protection of proprietary technology and ensure strict confidentiality of sensitive information; perform other duties as assigned or required.