Senior Program Manager

Senior Program Manager – Aerospace & Defense ManufacturingLocation: Anaheim, CACompany Overview:We are a Tier 1 OEM specializing in high-precision CNC machining for the aerospace and defense industry. Our capabilities include large-format CNC gantry machining, delivering tight-tolerance, complex components for leading primes including Lockheed Martin, Boeing, and Northrop Grumman. We are committed to quality, innovation, and operational excellence in everything we produce.Position SummaryWe are seeking an experienced Senior Program Manager to lead and oversee complex aerospace and defense manufacturing programs. This role is responsible for managing the full program lifecycle—from contract award through delivery—ensuring alignment with customer requirements, internal capabilities, and strategic business objectives.The ideal candidate brings deep experience working with major aerospace primes, a strong understanding of CNC machining environments (especially large-format gantry operations), and a proven track record of leadership in high-mix, tight-tolerance manufacturing settings.Key ResponsibilitiesLead cross-functional program teams to execute aerospace and defense manufacturing programs on time, within scope, and within budgetServe as the primary point of contact for customers including Lockheed Martin, Boeing, and Northrop GrummanManage program schedules, risk, cost performance, and deliverables across multiple concurrent projectsTranslate customer technical requirements into actionable manufacturing plans in collaboration with engineering and operations teamsOversee contract compliance, change management, and configuration controlDrive continuous improvement initiatives across program execution, including lean manufacturing and process optimizationCoordinate closely with CNC machining, quality, supply chain, and production teams to ensure alignment and performanceMonitor KPIs and provide executive-level reporting on program status, risks, and opportunitiesLead program reviews, including internal and customer-facing milestones (PDR, CDR, production readiness reviews, etc.)Mentor and develop junior program managers and cross-functional team membersRequired QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Business, or related field (Master’s preferred)8–12+ years of program management experience in aerospace and defense manufacturingDemonstrated experience working directly with major primes such as Lockheed Martin, Boeing, and Northrop GrummanStrong understanding of CNC machining operations, including tight-tolerance manufacturing and large-format gantry machiningProven ability to manage complex, high-value programs in a regulated environmentExperience with contract management, FAR/DFARS compliance, and aerospace quality standards (AS9100)Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skillsProficiency in program management tools and ERP/MRP systemsPreferred QualificationsPMP (Project Management Professional) certification or equivalentExperience in a Tier 1 or Tier 2 aerospace manufacturing environmentBackground in machining, manufacturing engineering, or production operationsFamiliarity with cost accounting, estimating, and quoting in a CNC machining environmentExperience leading programs involving large structural components or complex assembliesKey CompetenciesStrategic thinking with strong execution focusAbility to operate in high-precision, high-accountability environmentsStrong problem-solving and decision-making skillsCustomer-centric mindset with the ability to build long-term partnershipsLeadership presence with the ability to influence across all levels of the organizationWhy Join UsWork on mission-critical aerospace and defense programsPartner with top-tier industry leadersBe part of a high-performance machining environment with cutting-edge capabilitiesCompetitive compensation and benefits package