{"schemaVersion":"jobsearcher.job.v1","id":"1c8cd13cc1d02fe6c4cfd9c3","url":"https://jobsearcher.com/jobs/1c8cd13cc1d02fe6c4cfd9c3","canonicalUrl":"https://jobsearcher.com/jobs/1c8cd13cc1d02fe6c4cfd9c3","title":"Sr. Director, Program Management","description":"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.\n\nPosition Overview\n\nThe 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.\n\nEssential Duties and Responsibilities\n\nLeadership & Vision\nSet and communicate the strategic vision for the program management function in California, aligning with corporate objectives and long-term business goals.\nLead cross-program and cross-functional conflict resolution, balancing the performance of all programs and contracts.\nDesign a structured organization that is ready to deliver for customers successfully through disciplined execution.\nRepresent Stratolaunch in executive forums, industry events, and high-level customer and government engagements.\nLead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of program managers, program leaders, and cross-functional staff.\nOwn and perform to the Program Management Office budget for the Operations business unit.\n\nProgram Portfolio Oversight\nGuide and remove barriers for the execution of a portfolio of large-scale, concurrent programs, ensuring delivery on cost, schedule, technical performance, and customer satisfaction.\nCreate and drive a Program Management rhythm for the business unit, driving disciplined execution across all programs.\nHold Program Managers accountable through proactive risk management and risk mitigation planning.\nEstablish and enforce best-in-class program management methodologies, processes, and tools across the business unit.\nMake cross-program business unit level decisions regarding program direction, resource allocation, and risk management.\nSet 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.\nManage and oversee key supplier relationships by forming relationships and driving accountability into those organizations.\n\nStrategic Planning & Business Development\nCollaborate with the GM and executive leadership to define and execute long-term program strategies, business plans, and growth initiatives.\nSupport the identification, capture, and development of new business opportunities, partnerships, and strategic alliances.\nDrive technology insertion, process improvement, and program expansion within the business unit to maintain Stratolaunch's competitive edge.\n\nCustomer & Stakeholder Engagement\nForm and maintain critical customer relationships for the success of the business unit.\nSupport key customers, government agencies, and strategic partners, ensuring alignment with business unit objectives.\nSupport the negotiation of complex contracts and agreements, managing high-level relationships and ensuring delivery of customer value.\n\nGovernance, Risk, & Compliance\nOversee risk management, compliance, and governance activities for all programs, including classified and secure operations.\nEnsure adherence to all regulatory, contractual, and quality standards at the business unit level.\n\nOrganizational Development & Culture\nChampion a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement throughout the Program Management team.\nLead talent acquisition, succession planning, and professional development initiatives to build and sustain high-performing teams.\nPromote organizational health, engagement, and collaboration through effective communication and recognition programs.\nOwn recruiting and compensation for the Operations Program Management Office.\n\nExecutive Reporting & Communication\nProvide regular, comprehensive program and portfolio status updates to the General Manager, C-suite, and Board of Directors.\nCommunicate program vision, objectives, and progress to internal and external stakeholders at all levels.\n\nTravel\nDomestic and occasional international travel required to support business, program objectives, and customer relationships.\n\nQualifications\n\nRequired\n\nMinimum 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.\nDemonstrated success leading large, complex, multi-disciplinary programs or portfolios with annual budgets >$100M.\nExtensive experience in aerospace program management, subcontracts, procurement, personnel management, aircraft systems, operations, launch vehicle integration, and ground systems.\nProven executive leadership in technical organizations, including oversight of subcontractors and prototype/low-rate production.\nAdvanced expertise in risk management, classified program execution, and regulatory compliance.\nExceptional executive communication, negotiation, and facilitation skills.\nStrong analytical, strategic thinking, and organizational change management abilities.\nAbility to obtain and maintain a TS (Top Secret) security clearance.\n\nPreferred\n\nHypersonic vehicle development experience.\nExperience working directly with government agencies, regulatory bodies, and major defense contractors.\nAir-launch, launch vehicle, and/or aircraft integration program experience.\nLarge transport category or military aircraft operations experience.\nPMP, PgMP, or equivalent advanced project/program management certification.\nExperience with classified program execution and secure environments.\n\nRequired Computer Skills\n\nAdvanced proficiency in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)\nMS Project and other advanced project management tools\n\nEducation\n\nBachelor's degree (B.S./B.A.) in Engineering, Business Management/Administration, or related discipline from an accredited institution required.\nMaster's degree or higher strongly preferred.\n20+ years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.\n\nCompensation & Additional Job Notes\n\nPrincipal Program Manager $268,000 - $334,000 target bonus 27%\n9/80 Schedule\n\nBase 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.\n\nBenefits and our location(s):\n\nHealthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs)\nPaid Maternity and Parental Leave\n50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan, up to $11,500\nTuition reimbursement\n\nThis position may involve the operation of company vehicles as part of assigned duties.\n\nMojave 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.\n\nNot 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.\n\nFood 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.\n\nStratolaunch 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.\n\nEqual Employment Opportunity is the Law :\n\nhttps://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf","company":"Stratolaunch","rawCompany":"stratolaunch","city":"Mojave","state":"CA","isRemote":false,"isActive":true,"createdAt":"2026-09-04T11:46:04.783Z","occupations":[{"code":"13-1082.00","title":"Project Management Specialists","slug":"project-management-specialists"},{"code":"11-1021.00","title":"General and Operations Managers","slug":"general-and-operations-managers"},{"code":"11-9151.00","title":"Social and Community Service Managers","slug":"social-and-community-service-managers"}],"industries":[{"code":"927110","title":"Space Research and Technology","slug":"space-research-and-technology"},{"code":"336414","title":"Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing","slug":"guided-missile-and-space-vehicle-manufacturing"},{"code":"336415","title":"Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Propulsion Unit and Propulsion Unit Parts Manufacturing","slug":"guided-missile-and-space-vehicle-propulsion-unit-and-propulsion-unit-parts-manufacturing"}],"jobPosting":{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"JobPosting","title":"Sr. Director, Program Management","description":"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.\n\nPosition Overview\n\nThe 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.\n\nEssential Duties and Responsibilities\n\nLeadership & Vision\nSet and communicate the strategic vision for the program management function in California, aligning with corporate objectives and long-term business goals.\nLead cross-program and cross-functional conflict resolution, balancing the performance of all programs and contracts.\nDesign a structured organization that is ready to deliver for customers successfully through disciplined execution.\nRepresent Stratolaunch in executive forums, industry events, and high-level customer and government engagements.\nLead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of program managers, program leaders, and cross-functional staff.\nOwn and perform to the Program Management Office budget for the Operations business unit.\n\nProgram Portfolio Oversight\nGuide and remove barriers for the execution of a portfolio of large-scale, concurrent programs, ensuring delivery on cost, schedule, technical performance, and customer satisfaction.\nCreate and drive a Program Management rhythm for the business unit, driving disciplined execution across all programs.\nHold Program Managers accountable through proactive risk management and risk mitigation planning.\nEstablish and enforce best-in-class program management methodologies, processes, and tools across the business unit.\nMake cross-program business unit level decisions regarding program direction, resource allocation, and risk management.\nSet 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.\nManage and oversee key supplier relationships by forming relationships and driving accountability into those organizations.\n\nStrategic Planning & Business Development\nCollaborate with the GM and executive leadership to define and execute long-term program strategies, business plans, and growth initiatives.\nSupport the identification, capture, and development of new business opportunities, partnerships, and strategic alliances.\nDrive technology insertion, process improvement, and program expansion within the business unit to maintain Stratolaunch's competitive edge.\n\nCustomer & Stakeholder Engagement\nForm and maintain critical customer relationships for the success of the business unit.\nSupport key customers, government agencies, and strategic partners, ensuring alignment with business unit objectives.\nSupport the negotiation of complex contracts and agreements, managing high-level relationships and ensuring delivery of customer value.\n\nGovernance, Risk, & Compliance\nOversee risk management, compliance, and governance activities for all programs, including classified and secure operations.\nEnsure adherence to all regulatory, contractual, and quality standards at the business unit level.\n\nOrganizational Development & Culture\nChampion a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement throughout the Program Management team.\nLead talent acquisition, succession planning, and professional development initiatives to build and sustain high-performing teams.\nPromote organizational health, engagement, and collaboration through effective communication and recognition programs.\nOwn recruiting and compensation for the Operations Program Management Office.\n\nExecutive Reporting & Communication\nProvide regular, comprehensive program and portfolio status updates to the General Manager, C-suite, and Board of Directors.\nCommunicate program vision, objectives, and progress to internal and external stakeholders at all levels.\n\nTravel\nDomestic and occasional international travel required to support business, program objectives, and customer relationships.\n\nQualifications\n\nRequired\n\nMinimum 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.\nDemonstrated success leading large, complex, multi-disciplinary programs or portfolios with annual budgets >$100M.\nExtensive experience in aerospace program management, subcontracts, procurement, personnel management, aircraft systems, operations, launch vehicle integration, and ground systems.\nProven executive leadership in technical organizations, including oversight of subcontractors and prototype/low-rate production.\nAdvanced expertise in risk management, classified program execution, and regulatory compliance.\nExceptional executive communication, negotiation, and facilitation skills.\nStrong analytical, strategic thinking, and organizational change management abilities.\nAbility to obtain and maintain a TS (Top Secret) security clearance.\n\nPreferred\n\nHypersonic vehicle development experience.\nExperience working directly with government agencies, regulatory bodies, and major defense contractors.\nAir-launch, launch vehicle, and/or aircraft integration program experience.\nLarge transport category or military aircraft operations experience.\nPMP, PgMP, or equivalent advanced project/program management certification.\nExperience with classified program execution and secure environments.\n\nRequired Computer Skills\n\nAdvanced proficiency in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)\nMS Project and other advanced project management tools\n\nEducation\n\nBachelor's degree (B.S./B.A.) in Engineering, Business Management/Administration, or related discipline from an accredited institution required.\nMaster's degree or higher strongly preferred.\n20+ years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.\n\nCompensation & Additional Job Notes\n\nPrincipal Program Manager $268,000 - $334,000 target bonus 27%\n9/80 Schedule\n\nBase 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.\n\nBenefits and our location(s):\n\nHealthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs)\nPaid Maternity and Parental Leave\n50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan, up to $11,500\nTuition reimbursement\n\nThis position may involve the operation of company vehicles as part of assigned duties.\n\nMojave 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.\n\nNot 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.\n\nFood 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.\n\nStratolaunch 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.\n\nEqual Employment Opportunity is the Law :\n\nhttps://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf","datePosted":"2026-09-04T11:46:04.783Z","dateModified":"2026-09-04T11:46:04.783Z","hiringOrganization":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Stratolaunch","sameAs":"https://jobsearcher.com"},"jobLocation":{"@type":"Place","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","addressLocality":"Mojave","addressRegion":"CA","addressCountry":"US"}},"identifier":{"@type":"PropertyValue","name":"JobSearcher","value":"1c8cd13cc1d02fe6c4cfd9c3"},"url":"https://jobsearcher.com/jobs/1c8cd13cc1d02fe6c4cfd9c3"}}