Program Manager

Space Dynamics Laboratory•Albuquerque, NM

21d•$150,000 - $210,000

About The Position

The Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented advanced career Software Program Manager to lead the development and sustainment of complex software systems supporting satellite ground operations in the Strategic & Military Space Division. This role bridges technical leadership, stakeholder communication, and project execution, ensuring delivery of high-reliability software critical to national security and space missions. The Program Manager will work as part of a larger team comprised of customers, Engineers, Managers, Technicians, and support personnel. The Strategic & Military Space Division delivers advanced satellite and sensor systems that support the Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community. Our division is a key component of national security, providing technological solutions and expert mission support. Become part of a team dedicated to making a tangible contribution to our nation’s defense capabilities.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a technical engineering, science, or relevant field
15+ years of applicable experience with a bachelor’s degree, or 13+ years with a master’s degree
Minimum of 10 years of software program/project management experience, including at least 5 years managing critical and complex DoD programs
Must be a US citizen with an active US Government Security Clearance
Proven success managing complex software projects through full development lifecycle
Strong understanding of ground system architecture and satellite operations
Familiarity with Agile and/or hybrid project management frameworks
Proficiency with PM tools (e.g., Jira, Confluence, MS Project, etc.)
Technical domain knowledge of scalable architecture, distributed infrastructure in Azure, AWS, or Google Cloud
Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills
Ability to support new proposal efforts with technical writing, proposal management support, subcontractor evaluation, and other duties as requested
Must be able and willing to travel (up to 25%)

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in computer science, electrical engineering, computer engineering, or Information Systems; Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a technical Bachelor of Science degree
PMP or PMI certification
At least 2 years in satellite or space system domains
15+ years of project management experience in aerospace including experience managing software for space operations centers, antenna tasking, and mission control systems
Familiarity with multiple Remote Sensing phenomenologies and data sets such as RF, SAR, EO, IR
Background in DevSecOps, continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD), or digital engineering
Active security clearance

Responsibilities

Leads cross-functional software development teams delivering ground system capabilities including telemetry, tracking, and command (TT&C), mission planning, automation, and data processing
Manages project lifecycle from concept through operations ensuring scope, schedule, budget, and quality targets are met
Interfaces with internal and external stakeholders including Software Engineers, System Architects, Satellite Operators, and government sponsors
Oversees risk management, change control, and related management processes
Coordinates software integration and testing activities
Facilitates agile/scrum or hybrid program management methodologies
Ensures compliance with applicable government and quality standards
Tracks and reports program status, technical progress, and resource allocation to senior leadership and customers