Senior Program Manager, Space RF Systems (SRFS)

AeroVironment • Albuquerque, NM

2d

About The Position

At AV we provide a full suite of exquisite, space-qualified hardware trusted to fly in the most extreme environments space presents across GEO, MEO, LEO and Cislunar orbits. With hundreds of systems flying in space, our customers turn to AV when a mission can’t fail. Our team is expanding to do the big things that have never been done before – the things the nation and the world are counting on us to deliver. Join the transformation and help us make this impact now. Overview AV seeks a Senior Program Manager to oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of the Space RF Systems (SRFS) portfolio. This multi-hire position requires high-level technical execution and cross-functional management, serving either as: Deputy Program Manager for the primary BADGER program. Program Lead for BADGER/WASP IRAD and commercial development efforts. The successful candidate will manage the full production lifecycle, from engineering design transition through final delivery, with a focus on maximizing customer satisfaction and program growth.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business or Engineering related field is required or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
• Minimum 12 - 15 years of experience in Program Management.
• Knowledge of production planning and scheduling techniques.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.
• Experience with and understanding of DoD contracting and the acquisition process.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen able to obtain and maintain a Security Clearance

Nice To Haves

• MS or advanced degree in an Engineering or Program Management field.
• Minimum 10+ years of experience managing technical programs with a budget of $100M or greater.
• Experience with the design and development of complex phased array systems is highly preferred.
• Prior experience with satellite ground systems.
• Experience with Unanet ERP or similar enterprise resource planning system.
• Experience with business intelligence reporting (e.g., PowerBI) and Microsoft Project.
• Demonstrated experience supporting proposal development and contract negotiation.
• Experience in the Aerospace or US Department of Defense sectors.

Responsibilities

• Develop, manage, and maintain program plans, schedules, and budgets from inception to completion.
• Monitor program financial performance, expenditures, and forecasts for the SRFS portfolio and IRAD budgets.
• Coordinate resource allocation and optimization in collaboration with Integrated Product Teams (IPTs) and Group Leads.
• Monitor production metrics and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives for cost reduction and efficiency.
• Establish and maintain effective communication channels with customers, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders (PM Team, Contracts, Finance, Purchasing).
• Perform contract administration, including reviewing terms, monitoring deliverables, and managing contract modifications.
• Collaborate with Contracts and Legal teams to ensure program compliance and mitigate scope creep.
• Coordinate technical teams to ensure a smooth transition of products from design to Operations/Manufacturing.
• Ensure strict compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards throughout the production process.
• Monitor project progress and milestones, proactively identifying potential risks and implementing mitigation strategies.
• Conduct post-project reviews and implement lessons learned to enhance future project performance.
• Develop and present formal schedule, financial, and technical briefings to both internal staff and external R&D customers.

Benefits

• AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees