{"schemaVersion":"jobsearcher.job.v1","id":"606f7facd60feab6835540b2","url":"https://jobsearcher.com/jobs/606f7facd60feab6835540b2","canonicalUrl":"https://jobsearcher.com/jobs/606f7facd60feab6835540b2","title":"Program Director- Targets","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\nTo achieve these great efforts, Stratolaunch is seeking a Program Director with at least 20 years of relevant experience. This visible leadership role is responsible for the successful execution of complex, multi-disciplinary programs, including strategic planning, cross-functional team leadership, and is responsible for all aspects of program delivery and organizational growth. The role spans the design and development, manufacturing, and flight test of a fleet of expendable hypersonic targets. A candidate for this role must be comfortable leading cross-functional teams in a strong matrixed environment, driving the execution of a high-complexity technical project. A strong candidate will have a strong sense of urgency and will be able to make difficult programmatic decisions in an environment where not all the desired information is available.\n\nEssential Duties and Responsibilities\n\nLeadership\nLead strategic program initiatives and present clear and concise information in executive forums, customer engagements, and internal leadership meetings.\nMentor, coach, and develop program managers and team leads across the program.\n\nProgram Oversight & Execution\nOversee execution of multiple, concurrent programs with full responsibility for cost, schedule, technical performance, and customer satisfaction.\nOwn and maintain a positive customer relationship by producing results\nDrive the adoption of advanced program management processes, tools, and best practices.\nMake high-impact decisions affecting program direction, resource allocation, and risk posture.\nLead program forecasting and budgeting activities, ensuring accurate financial planning and alignment with organizational goals.\nManage revenue recognition and contract invoicing processes, ensuring compliance with accounting standards and timely billing.\nMonitor and report on program financial performance, proactively addressing variances and risks.\n\nStrategic Planning & Business Growth\nPartner with executive leadership and department heads to define long-term program strategies, business plans, and growth opportunities.\nLead the development of new business proposals, capture strategies, and customer engagement plans.\nIdentify and pursue opportunities for program expansion, technology insertion, and process improvement.\n\nCustomer & Stakeholder Engagement\nServe as the primary point of contact for key customers, government agencies, and strategic partners.\nNegotiate complex contracts, manage high-level customer relationships, and ensure alignment with customer objectives and expectations.\n\nRisk, Compliance & Governance\nOversee program risk management, compliance, and governance activities, including classified program execution and security requirements.\nProactively manage risk by developing risk mitigation plans and driving technical risks to closure with a high sense of urgency\nEnsure adherence to all regulatory, contractual, and quality standards.\n\nOrganizational Leadership\nFoster a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.\nLead cross-functional teams (engineering, operations, procurement, finance, legal) to ensure seamless program execution.\nChampion overall team growth and development, including talent acquisition, onboarding, training, and professional advancement.\nDevelop and manage senior-level talent pipelines and succession planning to support long-term organizational objectives.\nPromote team engagement, collaboration, and high performance through effective communication and recognition programs.\nImplement organizational development initiatives to enhance team capabilities and drive business results.\n\nReporting & Communication\nProvide regular, comprehensive program status reports and executive briefings to the C-suite and Board of Directors.\nCommunicate program vision, goals, and progress to internal and external stakeholders.\n\nTravel\nDomestic and occasional international travel as-required to support program and company objectives.\n\nQualifications\n\nRequired:\n\nMinimum 20 years of progressive experience in technical and/or program management, with at least 5 years in a senior or principal-level leadership role within aerospace, defense, or high-technology sectors.\nA strong sense of urgency, with the ability to make tough decisions in a technical environment\nDemonstrated success managing large, complex, multi-disciplinary programs with annual budgets >$100M.\nExtensive experience in aerospace program management, subcontracts and procurement, personnel management, aircraft systems, aircraft operations, launch vehicle integration, and ground systems.\nProven track record of technical leadership, including oversight of subcontractors and prototype/low-rate production.\nAdvanced risk management expertise and experience with classified programs.\nExceptional facilitation, negotiation, and executive communication skills.\nStrong analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities.\nAbility to obtain and maintain a TS (Top Secret) security clearance.\nDemonstrated ability to lead in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and drive organizational change.\n\nPreferred:\n\nBoost-glide hypersonic vehicle technology and hypersonic 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.\nMaster's degree or higher preferred.\n20+ years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.\n\nCompensation\n\nPrincipal Program Manager $214,000 - $249,000 target bonus 20%: Base salary and leveling established on a case-by-case basis, considering location, education, skills, and experience.\n\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":false,"createdAt":"2026-09-04T11:46:33.167Z","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":"336414","title":"Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing","slug":"guided-missile-and-space-vehicle-manufacturing"},{"code":"336419","title":"Other Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing","slug":"other-guided-missile-and-space-vehicle-parts-and-auxiliary-equipment-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":"Program Director- Targets","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\nTo achieve these great efforts, Stratolaunch is seeking a Program Director with at least 20 years of relevant experience. This visible leadership role is responsible for the successful execution of complex, multi-disciplinary programs, including strategic planning, cross-functional team leadership, and is responsible for all aspects of program delivery and organizational growth. The role spans the design and development, manufacturing, and flight test of a fleet of expendable hypersonic targets. A candidate for this role must be comfortable leading cross-functional teams in a strong matrixed environment, driving the execution of a high-complexity technical project. A strong candidate will have a strong sense of urgency and will be able to make difficult programmatic decisions in an environment where not all the desired information is available.\n\nEssential Duties and Responsibilities\n\nLeadership\nLead strategic program initiatives and present clear and concise information in executive forums, customer engagements, and internal leadership meetings.\nMentor, coach, and develop program managers and team leads across the program.\n\nProgram Oversight & Execution\nOversee execution of multiple, concurrent programs with full responsibility for cost, schedule, technical performance, and customer satisfaction.\nOwn and maintain a positive customer relationship by producing results\nDrive the adoption of advanced program management processes, tools, and best practices.\nMake high-impact decisions affecting program direction, resource allocation, and risk posture.\nLead program forecasting and budgeting activities, ensuring accurate financial planning and alignment with organizational goals.\nManage revenue recognition and contract invoicing processes, ensuring compliance with accounting standards and timely billing.\nMonitor and report on program financial performance, proactively addressing variances and risks.\n\nStrategic Planning & Business Growth\nPartner with executive leadership and department heads to define long-term program strategies, business plans, and growth opportunities.\nLead the development of new business proposals, capture strategies, and customer engagement plans.\nIdentify and pursue opportunities for program expansion, technology insertion, and process improvement.\n\nCustomer & Stakeholder Engagement\nServe as the primary point of contact for key customers, government agencies, and strategic partners.\nNegotiate complex contracts, manage high-level customer relationships, and ensure alignment with customer objectives and expectations.\n\nRisk, Compliance & Governance\nOversee program risk management, compliance, and governance activities, including classified program execution and security requirements.\nProactively manage risk by developing risk mitigation plans and driving technical risks to closure with a high sense of urgency\nEnsure adherence to all regulatory, contractual, and quality standards.\n\nOrganizational Leadership\nFoster a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.\nLead cross-functional teams (engineering, operations, procurement, finance, legal) to ensure seamless program execution.\nChampion overall team growth and development, including talent acquisition, onboarding, training, and professional advancement.\nDevelop and manage senior-level talent pipelines and succession planning to support long-term organizational objectives.\nPromote team engagement, collaboration, and high performance through effective communication and recognition programs.\nImplement organizational development initiatives to enhance team capabilities and drive business results.\n\nReporting & Communication\nProvide regular, comprehensive program status reports and executive briefings to the C-suite and Board of Directors.\nCommunicate program vision, goals, and progress to internal and external stakeholders.\n\nTravel\nDomestic and occasional international travel as-required to support program and company objectives.\n\nQualifications\n\nRequired:\n\nMinimum 20 years of progressive experience in technical and/or program management, with at least 5 years in a senior or principal-level leadership role within aerospace, defense, or high-technology sectors.\nA strong sense of urgency, with the ability to make tough decisions in a technical environment\nDemonstrated success managing large, complex, multi-disciplinary programs with annual budgets >$100M.\nExtensive experience in aerospace program management, subcontracts and procurement, personnel management, aircraft systems, aircraft operations, launch vehicle integration, and ground systems.\nProven track record of technical leadership, including oversight of subcontractors and prototype/low-rate production.\nAdvanced risk management expertise and experience with classified programs.\nExceptional facilitation, negotiation, and executive communication skills.\nStrong analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities.\nAbility to obtain and maintain a TS (Top Secret) security clearance.\nDemonstrated ability to lead in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and drive organizational change.\n\nPreferred:\n\nBoost-glide hypersonic vehicle technology and hypersonic 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.\nMaster's degree or higher preferred.\n20+ years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.\n\nCompensation\n\nPrincipal Program Manager $214,000 - $249,000 target bonus 20%: Base salary and leveling established on a case-by-case basis, considering location, education, skills, and experience.\n\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":"2026-09-04T11:46:33.167Z","dateModified":"2026-09-04T11:46:33.167Z","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":"606f7facd60feab6835540b2"},"url":"https://jobsearcher.com/jobs/606f7facd60feab6835540b2"}}