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Sr. Director, Program Management

Mojave, California, United States

Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air-launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security.

Position Overview

The Senior Director, Program Management is a key leader responsible for the execution of all of Stratolaunch’s Mojave, California-based programs. Reporting directly to the General Manager, this role oversees a portfolio of multi-disciplinary programs spanning the design, manufacturing, and flight test of reusable and expendable hypersonic test vehicles. The Senior Director is accountable for delivering customer satisfaction through the oversight of program performance. A strong candidate must have a strong sense of urgency, and be able to build and maintain a high-performance team of program leaders.

 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Leadership & Vision

  • Set and communicate the strategic vision for the program management function in California, aligning with corporate objectives and long-term business goals.
  • Lead cross-program and cross-functional conflict resolution, balancing the performance of all programs and contracts.
  • Design a structured organization that is ready to deliver for customers successfully through disciplined execution.
  • Represent Stratolaunch in executive forums, industry events, and high-level customer and government engagements.
  • Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of program managers, program leaders, and cross-functional staff.
  • Own and perform to the Program Management Office budget for the Operations business unit.

Program Portfolio Oversight

  • Guide and remove barriers for the execution of a portfolio of large-scale, concurrent programs, ensuring delivery on cost, schedule, technical performance, and customer satisfaction.
  • Create and drive a Program Management rhythm for the business unit, driving disciplined execution across all programs.
  • Hold Program Managers accountable through proactive risk management and risk mitigation planning.
  • Establish and enforce best-in-class program management methodologies, processes, and tools across the business unit.
  • Make cross-program business unit level decisions regarding program direction, resource allocation, and risk management.
  • Set the standards and best practices of the Program Management department, including scheduling and risk management. Support program financial discipline by collaborating with the Finance team.
  • Manage and oversee key supplier relationships by forming relationships and driving accountability into those organizations.

Strategic Planning & Business Development

  • Collaborate with the GM and executive leadership to define and execute long-term program strategies, business plans, and growth initiatives.
  • Support the identification, capture, and development of new business opportunities, partnerships, and strategic alliances.
  • Drive technology insertion, process improvement, and program expansion within the business unit to maintain Stratolaunch’s competitive edge.

Customer & Stakeholder Engagement

  • Form and maintain critical customer relationships for the success of the business unit.
  • Support key customers, government agencies, and strategic partners, ensuring alignment with business unit objectives.
  • Support the negotiation of complex contracts and agreements, managing high-level relationships and ensuring delivery of customer value.

Governance, Risk, & Compliance

  • Oversee risk management, compliance, and governance activities for all programs, including classified and secure operations.
  • Ensure adherence to all regulatory, contractual, and quality standards at the business unit level.

Organizational Development & Culture

  • Champion a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement throughout the Program Management team.
  • Lead talent acquisition, succession planning, and professional development initiatives to build and sustain high-performing teams.
  • Promote organizational health, engagement, and collaboration through effective communication and recognition programs.
  • Own recruiting and compensation for the Operations Program Management Office.

Executive Reporting & Communication

  • Provide regular, comprehensive program and portfolio status updates to the General Manager, C-suite, and Board of Directors.
  • Communicate program vision, objectives, and progress to internal and external stakeholders at all levels.

Travel

  • Domestic and occasional international travel required to support business, program objectives, and customer relationships.

 

Qualifications

Required

  • Minimum 20 years of progressive experience in technical and/or program management, with at least 10 years in senior leadership roles within aerospace, defense, or high-technology sectors.
  • Demonstrated success leading large, complex, multi-disciplinary programs or portfolios with annual budgets >$100M.
  • Extensive experience in aerospace program management, subcontracts, procurement, personnel management, aircraft systems, operations, launch vehicle integration, and ground systems.
  • Proven executive leadership in technical organizations, including oversight of subcontractors and prototype/low-rate production.
  • Advanced expertise in risk management, classified program execution, and regulatory compliance.
  • Exceptional executive communication, negotiation, and facilitation skills.
  • Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and organizational change management abilities.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a TS (Top Secret) security clearance.

 

Preferred

  • Hypersonic vehicle development experience.
  • Experience working directly with government agencies, regulatory bodies, and major defense contractors.
  • Air-launch, launch vehicle, and/or aircraft integration program experience.
  • Large transport category or military aircraft operations experience.
  • PMP, PgMP, or equivalent advanced project/program management certification.
  • Experience with classified program execution and secure environments.

 

Required Computer Skills

  • Advanced proficiency in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
  • MS Project and other advanced project management tools

 

Education

  • Bachelor’s degree (B.S./B.A.) in Engineering, Business Management/Administration, or related discipline from an accredited institution required.
  • Master’s degree or higher strongly preferred.
  • 20+ years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Compensation & Additional Job Notes

  • Principal Program Manager $268,000 - $292,000 target bonus 27%
  • 9/80 Schedule

Base salary and leveling are established on a case-by-case basis. We consider several factors to ensure a competitive offer, including your location, educational background, and a comprehensive assessment of the skills and experience demonstrated during your interviews.

Benefits and our location(s): 

  • Healthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs)
  • Paid Maternity and Parental Leave
  • 50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan, up to $11,500
  • Tuition reimbursement

This position may involve the operation of company vehicles as part of assigned duties.

Mojave Air & Spaceport is located just outside of Lancaster/Palmdale and is only 95 miles north of Los Angeles.  The area offers both affordability and central access to a variety of California's best attractions and landmarks.  

Not much for the outdoors and prefer the city life? You’re within a half day’s drive or less of Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, and San Francisco where you can find a variety of live entertainment, museums, tours, and historical sight-seeing. Theme parks are in abundance, with Six Flags Magic Mountain, Disneyland, and Knotts Berry Farm ready to meet the needs of rollercoaster thrill seekers. 

Food and drink fanatics are in a haven of delectable choices. Wine aficionados will also find easy access to some of the state’s best vino in Paso Robles, Santa Ynez, and even more locally in Tehachapi and Agua Dulce. Beer fanatics will find some of the best West Coast IPAs at Bravery and Lucky Luke’s in Lancaster. Any food option you crave is covered, and we always recommend the authentic and fresh Mexican food that you won’t find anywhere else in the United States.

 

Stratolaunch is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at our company. We encourage people from all walks of life to apply, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Our management team does not tolerate discrimination or harassment at any point during our employees’ and applicants’ time with us, especially with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment during employment.  For purposes of transparency, U.S. Citizenship may be required for some positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

 

Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law :

https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf

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