Material Program Manager

POSITION SUMMARY
The Material Program Manager (MPM) is a mid-level, dual-hatted role responsible for overseeing the full lifecycle of material and supply chain activities across defense contracts and, where applicable, manufacturing programs. This individual serves as a key cross-functional leader, bridging program management, procurement, logistics, and production in a lean small-business environment.
The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, mission-focused organization, is comfortable wearing multiple hats, and has direct experience navigating the regulatory and compliance demands of Department of Defense (DoD) contracting.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Material & Supply Chain Management
• Lead end-to-end material program management from requirements definition through delivery and closeout.
• Develop and maintain Bill of Materials (BOM), material requirements plans (MRP), and procurement strategies aligned to contract milestones.
• Manage supplier relationships, source selection, and subcontract oversight in compliance with FAR/DFARS regulations.
• Execute make-or-buy analyses and support manufacturing readiness activities, including coordination with production for gimbal and other hardware product lines as applicable.
• Monitor material lead times, cost performance, and delivery schedules; proactively identify and mitigate supply chain risks.
Program & Contract Support
• Serve as the material focal point on program teams, providing regular status updates to program managers and leadership.
• Support proposal development with material cost estimates, vendor quotes, basis of estimates (BOEs), and rough order of magnitude (ROM) pricing.
• Ensure compliance with contract data requirements lists (CDRLs), configuration management processes, contract flowdowns, and property control (Government Furnished Equipment/Property – GFE/GFP).
• Coordinate with DCMA, DCAA, and government contracting officers as needed on material-related matters.
Financial Oversight
• Develop and track material budgets, actuals, and EACs.
• Material forecasting & monthly risk and opportunity (RO) reporting
• Identify cost savings opportunities and drive continuous improvement across procurement and material handling processes.
• Support internal and external audits
Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration
• May directly supervise or mentor junior procurement, logistics, or program support staff.
• Collaborate with engineering, finance, contracts, and operations teams to ensure integrated program execution.
• Step into broader operational or program management responsibilities as needed to support small business agility.
• Represent materials function in internal program reviews, IBRs, and customer-facing meetings, as required.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, Engineering, or related field; equivalent defense experience considered.
• 3+ years of progressive experience in material program management, supply chain, or procurement
• Demonstrated experience managing material plans on cost-plus, fixed-price, or T&M contracts.
• Proficiency with ERP or MRP systems (e.g., Deltek Costpoint, SAP, or equivalent).
• Strong analytical, communication, and organizational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Active Secret security clearance or ability to obtain one.
• U.S. Citizenship required.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
• Master's degree in a relevant field.
• CPSM, PMP, APICS CPIM/CSCP, or DAU Defense Acquisition certification.
• Experience supporting SDVOSB or other small business defense contractors.
• Working knowledge of FAR, DFARS, and applicable procurement regulations.
• Familiarity with manufacturing environments, including hardware product lines (e.g., EO/IR, sensors, gimbal systems, or similar).
• Experience with CPSR preparation and supplier surveillance programs.
• Exposure to ITAR/EAR compliance requirements.
• Prior military service or veteran status — strongly valued.