Program Manager, Space Systems

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

We have an exciting opportunity for a Program Manager at our Herndon, VA location. Our team in Herndon provides innovative, cutting-edge, security solutions for the United States Government. The staff there has a multi-disciplinary, sometimes non-traditional, approach for generating innovative solutions to incredibly challenging technical problems in the national security arena. Our areas of expertise are in spacecraft payload and system development (especially in the confines of implementing very large amounts of functionality in extremely small, power-constrained environments); unique system development; ground control and operational software development; embedded software development; and unique cyber capabilities. Key customers include the Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community.

This position is responsible for the planning, managing and technical performance of one or more developed or mature engineering program(s) contained at a single location.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manages programs which have well defined program plans and delivery methodologies. Leads all phases of assigned program(s) from initiation through delivery. Responsible for program(s) which represent stable growth.
• Applies established technologies using standard principles, theories, concepts, and techniques to provide solutions to a variety of technical problems.
• Typically accomplishes objectives through subordinate managers.
• Responsible for decisions that could impact outcomes where erroneous decisions could cause serious schedule delays and expenditure of additional time and resources.
• Manages all phases of the program(s) from conceptualization through completion, including acquisition, planning, and managing technical performance to ensure quality, business, and financial objectives are attained.
• Develops and coordinates program plans or delivery methods which usually serve a single customer.
• Participates with technical staff and/or Division/Group executive management to develop and implement current, annual, and long-term technical, schedule, quality, business, and financial objectives for the program(s). May also contribute to the development of Group/Company objectives.
• Participates with engineering staff to establish design concepts, criteria, and engineering efforts for product research, development, testing, and integration.
• Interacts with internal and external representatives at various levels concerning resolution of technical and scheduling issues. Acts as primary contact for program issues.
• Influences and coordinates the preparation of proposals, business plans, proposal work statements and specifications, operating budgets, and financial terms/conditions of contract(s). Influence contract acquisitions, negotiations and modifications.
• Ensures technical leadership and excellence is maintained by participating in the planning, attraction, selection, retention, and development of the required management, professional, and technical talent.
• Acts as the primary customer contact for program activities and may lead program review sessions with customers to discuss cost, schedule, and technical performance.
• Identifies program issues and provides leadership in developing solutions such as re- allocation of resources or modifying contract specification.
• Contributes to the development of new business opportunities and expansion of existing business opportunities. May participate with Group management in pursuing business partnerships, alliances, and joint ventures that enhance the capabilities of the Group/Company and may result in new products, programs and business opportunities.
• Manages the development of and ensures the security of proprietary technology and maintains the strict confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Performs other duties as assigned or required.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.

Job Qualifications

• Typically requires a Bachelors, Masters or PhD in engineering, science or a related technical field as well as nine or more years of progressively complex program administration experience. May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education
• Demonstrates technical expertise and application of program management principles, concepts, and practice as well as program management and leadership skills including organizing, planning, scheduling, and coordinating workloads to meet established deadlines or milestones.
• Must be able to develop solutions to problems that require coordination of technologies across program requirements. Strong communication, leadership, presentation, and interpersonal skills are required to enable an effective interface with other departments, all levels of management, professional and support staff, customers, potential customers, and government representatives.
• Customer focused, must be able to work on a self-initiated basis and in a team environment, and able to work extended hours and travel as required.
• US Citizenship is required as is the ability to maintain a Top Secret Security Clearance.