Technical Program Manager (Aerospace & Defense)

Divergent • Torrance, CA

3d

About The Position

Divergent is a technology company that has architected, invented, built, and commercialized an end-to-end factory system called the Divergent Adaptive Production System (DAPS) that comprehensively uses machine learning to optimally engineer, additively manufacture, and flexibly assemble complex integrated vehicle structures and subsystems. Products created using DAPS are superior in performance, lower in cost, rapidly customizable to meet mission and customer-specific requirements, faster to market, and scalable on demand to high volume production. Divergent is a qualified Tier 1 supplier to global automotive OEMs, and Divergent is now expanding to support mission critical needs in the Aerospace and Defense sector. Join us to be a part of this transformative journey, where your impact will shape the future of technology and production.
Purpose
Divergent is seeking a Technical Program Manager (TPM) to support the execution of complex Aerospace & Defense (A&D) programs. This is an entry-level program management role designed for individuals with a foundation in engineering, manufacturing, and project coordination who want to develop expertise in managing technical programs within the A&D portfolio. The Junior TPM will work alongside senior program managers to help deliver mission-critical products on time, within budget, and in compliance with contractual and regulatory requirements.
The Role

Requirements

• Ability to lawfully access information and technology that is subject to US export controls
• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
• Minimum of 3 years of experience within the A&D industry
• Project management experience, including requirements decomposition and validation, cost estimating and reporting, and risk identification mitigation execution
• Technical background in A&D programs, including familiarity with basic structural analysis tools, aircraft systems architectures, and knowledge of applicable government standards
• Knowledgeable in aircraft structures, including design, analysis, manufacturing and qualification of airframe components and systems
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to identify issues and develop effective solutions
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage and influence both internal and external stakeholders
• Experience with fast-iteration hardware-prototyping programs
• Experience working in cross-functional engineering teams on A&D programs
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree in degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
• 5 or more years of experience within the A&D industry
• Knowledge of additive manufacturing applications and/or munition weapon systems
• Previous experience in program leadership positions such as Chief Engineer, Integrated Product Team (IPT) Lead, or Program Manager
• Active DoD Security Clearance

Responsibilities

• Program Execution Support: Assist in planning, coordinating, and tracking aerospace and defense programs from initiation through delivery
• Requirements Management: Track and flow down customer and program requirements to engineering and manufacturing teams while ensuring compliance throughout the design/build process
• Cross-Functional Coordination: Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, production, quality, and business operations to align cost, schedule, and technical performance
• Customer Interface: Support customer meetings, prepare status reports, and ensure timely delivery of contractual deliverables (SOW, CDRLs, SDRLs)
• Schedule and Cost Management: Help monitor program schedules, track progress against milestones, and support cost reporting
• Risk and Issue Management: Identify risks and issues, and assist in developing mitigation plans to maintain program performance
• Documentation & Compliance: Maintain accurate records, action item trackers, and program documentation; ensure compliance with ITAR, DFARS, and aerospace quality standards.
• Metrics and Reporting: Prepare dashboards, KPIs, and performance metrics for internal leadership and customer review to project programs health and status
• Proposal and Business Capture: Support
• Continuous Improvement: Participate in process improvement efforts to streamline program execution and enhance efficiency

Benefits

• Holistic Compensation Package: Enjoy a world-class compensation package that includes a competitive salary, equity plan, and discretionary results-based incentive bonus opportunities, ensuring you're truly valued for your contributions.
• Wellness and Time Off: Embrace a healthy lifestyle with paid vacation, sick time, and company holidays, including a year-end shutdown to recharge. We support growing families with paid parental leave, recognizing the importance of bonding time.
• Comprehensive Health and Wellness: Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health and wellness benefits, offering both HMO and Premium PPO options. Additionally, benefit from company-sponsored life insurance and short and long-term disability coverage for peace of mind.
• Investment in Growth: We're committed to your professional development. Take advantage of reimbursement opportunities for learning and development initiatives, empowering you to continuously expand your skill set and reach peak performance.
• Collaborative and High-Performing Environment: Join our collaborative, dynamic, and high-performing team within a fast-paced, mission-driven company. Together, we're disrupting the traditional manufacturing industry, fostering innovation, and integrating people and technology to reduce our footprint.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees