Sr. Deputy Program Manager Engineering

General Dynamics Mission Systems, Inc•Pittsfield, MA

10d•$160,047 - $177,553•Hybrid

About The Position

The Deputy Program Manager, Engineering (DPME) serves as a key engineering leader responsible for the technical health, schedule integrity, and quality of all engineering deliverables supporting the Heritage-class OPC program. The DPME partners closely with the Program Manager and cross-functional teams to drive engineering execution across system integration, test and verification, risk management, and change control — ensuring the program delivers a fully integrated, validated, and mission-capable maritime system. This role requires a seasoned engineering professional who thrives in complex, fast-paced environments and can balance technical depth with program leadership acumen.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, or a related Science, Engineering or Mathematics field, plus a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience; or Master's degree plus a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience.
Department of Defense Secret security clearance is obtainable within a reasonable amount of time after hire.
Applicants selected will be subject to a U.S. Government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.
Due to the nature of work performed within our facilities, U.S. citizenship is required
Systems Engineering Expertise: Deep understanding of systems integration, test, and verification processes in complex defense or maritime programs.
Program Management Acumen: Excellent proficiency in project management principles including Earned Value Management (EVM), SPI/CPI, Cost Account Management (CAM), and Statistical Process Controls.
Communication: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical topics clearly to diverse audiences — from engineers to senior leadership and government customers.
Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, and develop multi-disciplinary engineering teams while managing conflict and driving accountability.
Problem Solving: Proven track record of resolving complex technical challenges in high-stakes program environments.
Organizational Skills: Strong time management and organizational capabilities to manage competing priorities across a large-scale, multi-year program.
Negotiation & Interpersonal Dynamics: Ability to handle negotiations and manage complex stakeholder relationships effectively.
Agile & Traditional Lifecycle Knowledge: Expertise in various project life cycles including agile methodologies, and the ability to adapt approaches to program needs.
Technology Anticipation: Ability to anticipate technology, process, and skill needs; apply or develop advanced technologies, principles, theories, and concepts relevant to maritime mission systems.
Company Processes: Strong understanding and application of GDMS policies, practices, and engineering processes.
AI Literacy: Demonstrated ability to identify opportunities to apply AI tools for process improvement and innovation.

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Navy, or other maritime defense programs.
Background in shipboard systems integration, combat systems, or mission system engineering.
Familiarity with naval acquisition processes, FAR/DFARS, and government program reporting requirements.

Responsibilities

Develop and maintain comprehensive engineering plans aligned with program milestones, ensuring all deliverables — including documentation — are produced with high quality and delivered on schedule.
Ensure total system requirements are validated and that the fully integrated OPC platform is tested and verified to specification.
Ensure all engineering activities adhere to established engineering practices, standards, and regulatory requirements applicable to General Dynamics Mission Systems and maritime defense programs.
Manage the identification and resolution of technical issues across complex, multi-discipline engineering domains; communicate resolutions to all affected stakeholders and ensure changes are reflected across all impacted artifacts.
Identify, develop, analyze, and report engineering project measures and metrics, including Earned Value (SPI/CPI), Cost Account Management (CAM), and Statistical Process Controls.
Proactively identify engineering risks and implement effective corrective actions to maintain program performance.
Motivate and guide engineering teams, providing clear direction on project goals, resolving conflicts, and fostering a high-performance culture.
Champion the identification and application of AI and emerging technologies for continuous improvement and engineering innovation across the program.