Technical Program Manager, Missile Defense

True Anomaly•Long Beach, CA

5h•$140,000 - $200,000•Hybrid

About The Position

A new space race has begun. True Anomaly seeks those with the talent and ambition to build innovative technology that solves the next generation of engineering, manufacturing, and operational challenges for space security and sustainability. OUR MISSION The peaceful use of space is essential for continued prosperity on Earth—from communications and finance to navigation and logistics. True Anomaly builds innovative technology at the intersection of spacecraft, software, and AI to enhance the capabilities of the U.S., its allies, and commercial partners. We safeguard global security by ensuring space access and sustainability for all. OUR VALUES Be the offset. We create asymmetric advantages with creativity and ingenuity What would it take? We challenge assumptions to deliver ambitious results It’s the people. Our team is our competitive advantage and we are better together YOUR MISSION We are looking for a proactive Technical Program Manager to drive the planning, design, and execution of innovative aerospace projects in our dynamic space startup environment. The role involves coordinating interdisciplinary teams to develop, test, and integrate cutting-edge space systems while ensuring adherence to industry standards and regulatory requirements. The successful candidate will manage project plans, budgets, and resources, while also conduct risk assessments and troubleshooting technical challenges. This role will be a core member of one of the critical vehicles of True Anomaly’s missile defense catalogue, requiring a broad understanding of technical challenges.

Requirements

Experience in the development of propulsion systems in the aerospace or defense sector.
Demonstrated experience supporting test campaigns of propulsion systems.
Experience in project engineering, design, and systems integration within a high-tech or aerospace environment
Demonstrated experience managing risk and cost, schedule, and technical baselines for an aerospace, engineering, or software development program
Demonstrated experience managing multiple complex technical projects, including planning, budgeting, and execution.
Strong analytical skills for data interpretation, systems analysis, and troubleshooting in engineering applications.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively translate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
Proven ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams, including design, manufacturing, quality assurance, and operations.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced startup environment and adapt to rapidly changing project priorities.
Eligible for Top Secret/SCI Security Clearance
Bachelor’s Degree and a minimum of 8 years of prior relevant experience; Or, Graduate Degree and a minimum of 5 year of prior related experience

Nice To Haves

Ability to work within a cross-functional, geographically dispersed team environment to complete contractual commitments.
Identify and create process improvements enabling team to rapidly scale towards mission success.
Liquid and SRM propulsion experience in defense sector.
Proficiency in engineering design software (e.g., MATLAB, SolidWorks, or similar CAD and simulation tools).
Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project)
Experience with customer interfacing and National Security aerospace programs
Ability to establish new & further refining existing templates, tools, & guidelines for program documentation & execution
Experience with ensuring compliance with approved Corporate and ISO 9001:2000 Policies and Processes
Active TS/SCI US government security clearance with SCI eligibility strongly preferred
Experience working in classified environments

Responsibilities

Develop and manage detailed project plans, including schedules, budgets, and resource allocation.
Coordinate interdisciplinary teams to ensure project milestones and deliverables are met.
Oversee the design and engineering of space-related systems or subsystems from concept to prototype.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams (systems, mechanical, electrical, etc.) to ensure design integrity and feasibility.
Review simulations, modeling, and testing to validate design performance in relevant space environments.
Collaborate on the development and implementation of test plans to verify performance, resilience, and compliance with aerospace standards.
Analyze test data to pinpoint any issues and drive corrective action.
Identify technical and project risks early in the lifecycle and develop robust mitigation strategies.
Prepare and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, project reports, and compliance records, ensuring adherence to industry standards and regulatory requirements relevant to space systems.
Monitor project expenditures and resource utilization, suggesting adjustments as needed.
Facilitate a culture of continuous improvement throughout the engineering process.
Serve as the technical liaison between PMO, engineering and external partners.