Senior Program Manager

Senior Program Manager (Defense & Aerospace) | McLean, VAA growing defense and aerospace technology company is seeking a Senior Program Manager to lead complex, customer-driven programs from requirements definition through production and final delivery.This is a highly visible leadership role responsible for managing program schedules, budgets, risks, customer requirements, and cross-functional execution across engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and operations teams. The successful candidate will thrive in a fast-paced environment where accountability, ownership, and execution are critical.Key Responsibilities• Lead complex defense and aerospace programs from project kickoff through customer acceptance and delivery• Manage program schedules, budgets, risks, milestones, and deliverables while ensuring customer expectations are met• Collaborate closely with engineering teams to ensure technical requirements are fully captured and executed• Drive procurement activities, supplier management, and long-lead material planning• Develop and maintain detailed project schedules using Microsoft Project, Smartsheet, or similar tools• Lead customer program reviews, status meetings, and executive-level reporting• Manage contract requirements, Statements of Work (SOW), scope changes, and program compliance• Coordinate cross-functional teams including engineering, manufacturing, quality, supply chain, and operations• Proactively identify and mitigate program risks before they impact schedule, cost, or deliveryQualifications• PMP certification (preferred)• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or a related technical discipline• 3-10 years of program management experience within defense, aerospace, government contracting, or advanced manufacturing environments• Strong experience managing DoD contracts and customer-facing government programs• Proven success managing budgets, schedules, subcontractors, and multi-disciplinary technical teams• Experience with risk management, earned value concepts, and critical path scheduling• Strong communication and leadership skills with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels• U.S. Citizenship requiredPreferred Experience• Military background or experience supporting military customers• Experience with FAR/DFARS requirements• Manufacturing, production, fabrication, or systems integration program experience• Familiarity with AS9100, ISO 9001, ITAR, and related compliance standardsWhy Consider This Opportunity?• High-impact leadership role with direct visibility to executive management• Opportunity to lead mission-critical defense and aerospace programs• Fast-moving environment with significant ownership and decision-making authority• Competitive compensation and benefits packageLocation: McLean, VA (On-Site)If you have a proven track record leading complex defense or aerospace programs and are interested in a confidential discussion, please apply directly.All inquiries will be handled with strict confidentiality.