Sr. Space Payload Program Manager

Leidos • San Diego, CA

428d • $134,550 - $243,225

About The Position

The Space Payload Program Manager at Leidos will lead the design, build, and testing of Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) payloads, ensuring alignment with DoD standards and contributing to national defense capabilities. This role involves managing a talented team, interfacing with customers, and overseeing the execution of complex space payload projects.

Requirements

• Must have an active DoD Secret clearance or higher.
• Bachelor's degree and 15+ years of prior relevant experience or Masters with 13+ years of prior relevant experience.
• Must have proven experience managing complex projects within the aerospace or defense industry, including electro/optical product design, development, fabrication, and test.
• Strong understanding and experience executing PM activities: cost (EVMS), schedule, Customer engagement, management of firm fixed price (FFP) contracts.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interface with senior managements, clients, and technical teams.
• Demonstrated ability to manage engineering resources in program execution, including standing up a new team on behalf of an organization or a program.
• Prior experience in Systems Engineering or Project Engineering.
• Adaptability to new challenges with a strong motivation to grow and learn in new areas.

Nice To Haves

• Active possession of a Top-Secret clearance, or ability to obtain and maintain.
• Masters degree in a relevant field.
• Experience translating functional requirements into tasks.
• Experience in managing space payload programs (R&D, prototype, low volume production).
• Vehicle/platform integration experience and/or test and evaluation.
• Demonstrated experience leading an engineering organization.
• Familiarity with Agile project management methodologies.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a track record of successfully resolving complex project issues.
• Demonstrated experience with winning follow-on contracts within an existing program.

Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end management of space payload programs, from concept through delivery, ensuring alignment with DoD requirements and company objectives.
• Oversee the development, testing, and integration of space payloads, coordinating with cross-functional teams to ensure project milestones are met on time and within budget.
• Establish program management process and methodologies within the program to include: WBS management, IMS management, Risk and Opportunity management, and EVMS cost management.
• Capture new business by developing RFIs and BOEs, and approve proposals on behalf of program management.
• Negotiate SOW, T&Cs, and price with subcontractors and prospective customers/business partners.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, stakeholders, and internal teams, ensuring clear communication and reporting on program status, risks, and issues.
• Develop and maintain detailed program plans, schedules, and budgets, tracking progress and implementing corrective actions as needed.
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory, security, and quality standards pertinent to DoD and space payload operations.
• Facilitate risk management and mitigation strategies, conducting regular risk assessments and maintaining contingency plans.
• Mentor and guide junior program managers and team members, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional development.
• Coordinate with subcontractors and suppliers to ensure timely delivery of components and services that meet program specifications.
• Ensure program is properly staffed to execute scope of work on time and within budget.
• Establish and maintain program business rhythm.
• Work closely with subcontract program manager to ensure on-time delivery from the subcontractors.
• Oversee development, manufacturing, assembly, integration, and test of the payload and uses key metrics to ensure the program is on track to promised delivery date.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• 401k
• Paid holidays
• Flexible scheduling
• Professional development opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree