Program Manager - Ceramics

AeroVironment•Bath Township, OH

4d•$106,500 - $181,000•Onsite

About The Position

AeroVironment’s Advanced Research and Development Division is seeking a technical project manager to lead the development, advancement, and transition of technologies supporting the Air Force and broader Department of War. The work focuses on ceramics, composites, ultra-high-temperature materials, materials processes, and advanced manufacturing approaches for aircraft, spacecraft, and ground-based systems. The Program Manager plans and executes programs for ARD customers, working with team members, leadership, customers, and other stakeholders to review requirements, plans, and project cost accounting. The role combines project management and technical leadership to meet program objectives and customer requirements, ensure quality standards, and communicate effectively to support successful project, research, and technology outcomes.

Requirements

Master’s degree and at least 3 years of experience in materials science, chemical engineering, chemistry, or a related field, with an emphasis on ceramics or ceramic composites.
At least 1 year of project management experience with early-stage development efforts for defense applications.
Familiarity with at least one of the following: refractory materials, ceramics, ceramic matrix composites, additive manufacturing, extreme materials, or processing of these materials.
Familiarity with research, development, testing, and evaluation in the aerospace and defense industries.
Strong written, verbal, and presentation communication skills.
U.S. citizenship required.
Ability to obtain a Top Secret security clearance.
Must be willing to work on government contracts.

Nice To Haves

Doctoral degree in materials science, chemical engineering, chemistry, or a related field, with an emphasis on ceramics, pre-ceramic polymers, or ceramic composites.
Familiarity with standardized testing methodologies and material characterization approaches.
Ability to excel in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment where small teams share a broad variety of duties.
Ability to inspire, motivate, and empower people to deliver organizational goals while providing value to employees.
Shares ideas and experiences with others, solicits feedback, and asks relevant questions.

Responsibilities

Lead an interdisciplinary team of scientists and engineers to achieve project goals and meet specific requirements.
Plan, execute, monitor, and control projects in collaboration with team members, leadership, customers, and other stakeholders.
Manage resources, budgets, costs, schedules, quality, risks, and other activities to ensure successful project execution.
Communicate financial projections, technical milestones, and project plans to customers, leadership, and other stakeholders in accordance with contract requirements.
Support company capture and growth opportunities by managing, writing, and contributing to proposals responding to topics and solicitations.
Ensure projects are completed within scope, on time, and within budget.
Perform other duties as assigned.