Program Manager, Space Systems Integration Office (El Segundo, C

Description

Are you an experienced leader who is passionate about developing and implementing new concepts and capabilities to support space enabled warfighting and requirements development at scale?

Are you skilled at building, mentoring, and leading dynamic teams in a geographically dispersed environment?

Are you collaborative and driven to problem-solve complex technical issues?

Are you passionate about overseeing and implementing cutting-edge AI/ML capabilities to support space-enabled requirements?

Are you seeking to make an impact across the national security space enterprise by delivering groundbreaking technical expertise while striving to achieve a vision and strategy?

If so, we’re looking for someone like you to join our team at Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL)!

As the Program Manager in the National Security Space Mission Area in the Space Exploration Sector (SES), you will oversee and manage enterprise level requirements, design reference mission architecting, and ground capabilities based in El Segundo, California in support of the Space Warfighting Implementation Program Area Manager. You will ensure seamless execution of system-of-system integration, enabling space warfighting requirements.

The ideal candidate will establish a plan to capture these national security space efforts while working across the program team to guide program execution, delivering critical contributions to the United States government. You will manage, grow, and develop experienced project managers and multi-disciplined engineering teams. You will develop and execute a strategy to enable the Mission Area Strategic Vectors, and will identify opportunities for internal and external collaboration. External engagement will be required across a wide-range of Department of Defense (DoD) sponsors and industry organizations. Thought leadership and the ability to address critical challenges with impactful analytic approaches will be key in this role.

At APL, we are passionate about the work we do and we strive to deliver high-quality and timely products to our government sponsors. We aim to foster a highly collaborative, fulfilling, and fun work environment.

The Program Manager will advance the NSS Mission Area’s impact across its five strategic vectors:

• Decision Superiority– Deliver machine-enabled predictive capabilities, intelligent automation, and advanced analytics that give the U.S. strategic and tactical advantages.
• Multi-Domain Kill Webs– Enable integrated, cross-domain sensor-to-shooter architectures and accelerate the F2T2EA cycle for space-enabled operations.
• Combat-Ready Space Capabilities– Drive prototyping, T&E, and spaceflight demonstrations to strengthen space warfighting resilience and readiness.
• Threat Understanding & Anticipation– Apply engineering assessments and emulation to replicate adversary threats, enhancing the U.S.’s ability to anticipate and counter space-based challenges.
• Space Warfighting Brain Trust– Advance technical education and training within APL and support sponsor-side development through embedded engineering expertise and mission immersion.

Your leadership will directly contribute to APL’s ability to deliver combat-ready solutions, influence sponsor direction, and shape the future of national security space operations.

As a Program Manager, you will…

• Establish a program execution plan for system-of-systems engineering and requirements development
• Develop and sustain APL relationships with DoD sponsors and relevant stakeholders
• Grow and nurture a portfolio of critical efforts that include deep technical analytical processes, impactful research and development projects, digital systems engineering, and prototype development activities consistent with the National Security Space Mission Area's vision and strategy
• Provide and conduct thought leadership activities to ensure a complete understanding of sponsors’ critical needs as well as current and future challenges; shape analytic work; and, make technical contributions where appropriate
• Drive the implementation of new business opportunities and strategic planning initiatives
• Actively manage multiple projects; execute and manage project funding and task orders; and, understand and manage proposal development in accordance with APL policies and government contracting regulations
• Ensure that deliverables meet sponsor expectations, and program execution is within schedule and budget constraints
• Directly interface and liaise with Government sponsor principal staff as well as APL management and staff
• Have the ability to process information from multiple sources, while drafting and integrating briefings and presentations for the Program Area Manager
• Can effectively prioritize workload with competing tasks in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment
• Have demonstrated capability of strong written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills

Qualifications

You meet the qualifications for the job if you…

• Have a Bachelor's degree in engineering or another technical field with at least ten years of relevant experience in leading technical development activities
• Have previous experience with system-of-systems integration
• Have a strong understanding of project and program management best practices
• Possess good analytical, creative thinking, and problem-solving skills
• Are able to cultivate impactful relationships and work collaboratively within and across organizational boundaries
• Have a demonstrated proficiency in the analysis and evaluation of program / project milestones, schedules, contractual deliverables, and finance management
• Are a high-performer and self-starter, with strong communication skills (verbal and written)
• Have a strong sense of urgency, adaptability, resourcefulness, and flexibility
• Have the ability to work multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced work environment
• Have excellent organizational skills
• Hold an active Top Secret security clearance and are able to obtain a TS/SCI security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You will go above and beyond the minimum requirements if you…

• Have a Master's degree or Ph.D. in engineering or another technical related field
• Have experience in the space industry, particularly national security space
• Possess experience with AI/ML techniques and implementation in programs
• Possess a passion for autonomous decision-making applications
• Have a strong understanding and knowledge of the United States Space Force and Department of Air Force organizational structures

About Us

Why Work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities athttp://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contactAccommodations@jhuapl.edu.

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL’s good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Minimum Rate

$140,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$320,000 Annually