Program Manager

*Active TS/SCI Clearance is needed for consideration to this role*

Zachary Piper Solutions is currently seeking a Program Manager to support a Space Combat Power Systems Acquisition Program based in El Segundo, CA . This position is a full-time onsite role. This position is critical in supporting the acquisition, integration, and delivery of next-generation space capabilities for the U.S. Space Force (USSF) Space Systems Command (SSC). As a Program Manager, you will play a pivotal role in driving acquisition strategy, program execution, and cross-domain integration across space, ground, and mission segments within a high-stakes national security environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the Government Program Manager in guiding acquisition strategies, program schedules, resource allocation, contracting actions, and budgeting aligned to mission priorities.
• Oversee all aspects of program execution, including delivery milestones, risk management, testing, system integration, and contractor performance.
• Drive cross-functional collaboration across government and contractor teams to ensure seamless integration across space, ground, and communications systems.
• Organize and lead Technical Interchange Meetings (TIMs) and program reviews to track performance, identify risks, and implement corrective actions.
• Apply advanced configuration and change management practices to maintain traceability across program artifacts such as Interface Control Documents (ICDs), performance metrics, and milestone deliverables.
• Evaluate contractor designs and milestone reviews, providing detailed assessments of technical progress, risks, and mission alignment.
• Lead independent technical and programmatic reviews to validate system effectiveness and readiness.
• Manage program financials, including funding commitments, obligations, and expenditures, ensuring efficient and timely execution.
• Champion Warfighting Acquisition System (WAS) principles, promoting rapid capability delivery, innovation, and calculated risk-taking.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree with 15+ years of relevant experience OR Master's degree with 13+ years of experience.
• Active or recent TS/SCI eligible clearance with an in-scope T5/SSBI investigation (or willingness to obtain).
• Willingness to obtain access to Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI), Special Access Programs (SAP), and consent to polygraph if required.
• Demonstrated Program Management or leadership experience supporting complex DoD or aerospace systems.
• Experience working across space and ground system programs to ensure end-to-end mission performance.
• Proven experience managing performance-based government contracts, including cost, schedule, and risk management.
• Background supporting Air Force, Space Force, or DoD acquisition programs.
• Strong experience developing briefings, technical documentation, and executive-level reports.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work across diverse and high-performing teams.

Compensation to include:

• Salary Range: $200,000 - $240,000 *depending on experience*
• Full Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, PTO, Sick Leave if Required by Law

This job opens for applications on 2/24/26. Applications for this job will be accepted for at least 30 days from the posting date

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Keywords: Space Force, USSF, Program Manager, Space Systems, DoD Acquisition, Space Force, SSC, Aerospace, Government Contracts, System Integration, Risk Management, Scheduling, Budgeting, Warfighting Acquisition System (WAS), Technical Reviews, TIMs, Configuration Management, SAP, TS/SCI, Satellite Systems, Ground Systems, Mission Integration, Defense Programs, Acquisition Strategy, Program Execution