Program Manager

Program Manager – Military & Defense AvionicsLocation: Irving, TXTravel: Up to 5-15% TravelIndustry: Aerospace & DefenseSalary: $130,000Position OverviewWe are currently seeking an experienced Program Manager – Military & Defense Avionics for one of our leading aerospace and defense clients. This is an exciting opportunity to lead complex avionics development programs supporting next-generation military aircraft and defense technologies while collaborating with multidisciplinary engineering teams throughout the product development lifecycle.Primary ResponsibilitiesLead military and defense avionics development programs from kickoff through delivery.Manage cross-functional Integrated Product Teams (IPTs) consisting of systems, software, hardware, mechanical, manufacturing, quality, and supply chain personnel.Develop and maintain project schedules, budgets, risk registers, work breakdown structures, and program management plans.Track program performance, resource utilization, milestones, and deliverables.Manage customer relationships and serve as the primary point of contact throughout program execution.Coordinate engineering certification efforts for avionics hardware and software.Oversee environmental qualification, testing, and compliance activities.Support proposal development, contract modifications, and change management.Monitor program risks and implement mitigation strategies.Ensure compliance with applicable aerospace, defense, quality, cybersecurity, export control, and contractual requirements.Prepare executive-level status reports and communicate program performance to leadership.Drive continuous improvement while maintaining schedule, quality, and customer satisfaction.Required QualificationsBachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, or a related technical discipline.Minimum of 7 years of program or project management experience in aerospace, avionics, or defense product development.At least 3 years supporting military or defense programs.Strong understanding of:DO-178CDO-254DO-160MIL-STD-810MIL-STD-461MIL-STD-882FAR/DFARS requirementsExperience managing budgets, schedules, risks, and cross-functional engineering teams.Knowledge of Earned Value Management (EVM) principles.Strong leadership, communication, negotiation, and organizational skills.Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Microsoft ProjectPreferred QualificationsPMP (Project Management Professional) certification.Master's degree in Engineering, Engineering Management, or Business Administration.Experience with AS9100 quality systems.Familiarity with CMMC, NIST SP 800-171, ITAR, and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).Experience supporting DoD customers, prime contractors, or military acquisition programs.Knowledge of aircraft systems supporting fixed-wing, rotary-wing, or unmanned platforms.Additional RequirementsMust qualify as a U.S. Person under ITAR regulations.Ability to obtain authorization to handle Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).Ability to travel approximately 5–15% as required.Must successfully complete applicable background screening.