TRC’s client is partnering with an innovative and rapidly growing aerospace manufacturer to identify a Senior Program Manager – Turbine Engines. This organization combines the stability and resources of a global leader with the agility of a startup, offering a unique opportunity to play a key role in shaping next-generation propulsion systems while helping scale U.S. operations.
Summary
The Senior Program Manager will lead complex aerospace programs across sustainment, new product development (NPD), and R&D initiatives for small turbine engine platforms. This role blends technical program execution with business operations leadership, including support of facility expansion and production ramp-up. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, build-oriented environment and can drive cross-functional alignment from concept through production and beyond.
Responsibilities
- Lead planning, execution, and delivery of turbine engine programs across sustainment, development, and R&D
- Own program scope, schedules, budgets, risks, and deliverables
- Serve as primary interface for government and commercial customers
- Coordinate cross-functional teams across engineering, manufacturing, quality, and supply chain
- Ensure compliance with aerospace and defense regulations (DFARS, ITAR, FAA/DoD requirements)
- Track and report earned value metrics (EVM), KPIs, and program performance to leadership
- Drive lifecycle management including warranty support and obsolescence strategies
- Lead NPD efforts from concept through prototyping, qualification, and production readiness
- Support proposal development, SOW definition, and cost estimation for new programs
- Align R&D milestones with business objectives and program deliverables
- Support operational scaling, capacity planning, and production ramp initiatives
- Assist with facility expansion, including layout planning, capital equipment, and contractor coordination
- Partner with finance, HR, IT, and supply chain to align infrastructure with program growth
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or related technical field (Master’s or PMP preferred)
- 7+ years of experience in aerospace or defense manufacturing
- 3+ years of program management experience leading complex technical programs
- Hands-on experience with Earned Value Management (EVM) and scheduling tools (MS Project or similar)
- Strong understanding of full aerospace lifecycle (design, prototyping, qualification, production, sustainment)
- Familiarity with DoD/FAA regulations, DFARS, and ITAR compliance
- Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage multiple concurrent programs
- Experience with lean manufacturing, operations scaling, or facility startup environments
- Strong communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, evolving environment
