Project Manager – Defense & Industrial Programs
Position Summary
Must be a U.S. Citizen or Green Card Holder, No Visa Sponsorship is available at this time
We are seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead complex, custom-engineered programs for defense and advanced industrial customers. This role manages a diverse mix of fast‑paced commercial initiatives and long‑term, contract‑driven defense programs. The ideal candidate is comfortable operating in highly visible environments, working closely with leadership, customers, and cross‑functional teams to deliver successful outcomes while continuously improving project execution processes.
What We Offer
- Clean, modern, and climate‑controlled work environment
- Convenient location with easy highway access
- Competitive compensation package
Required Background & Experience
- 5+ years of experience managing programs or projects for engineered products
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or a related field
- Proven ability to lead customer‑facing programs as well as internal new product development efforts
- Working knowledge of defense contract environments and industrial manufacturing delivery processes
- Ability to adjust project management approaches to match project complexity and pace
- Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
- Project management certifications (PMP, Lean, Agile, or similar) are a plus
- Willingness to travel approximately 15–20%
Role Objective
Projects range from short‑cycle commercial programs to multi‑year government‑regulated contracts. This role is critical to ensuring projects stay aligned with customer expectations, contractual requirements, and internal performance goals while driving continuous improvement across program execution.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage high‑value customer programs lasting 6 to 36 months, maintaining control of scope, schedule, cost, and performance
- Serve as the primary owner of assigned programs from initial kickoff through final delivery
- Partner directly with senior leadership to help set priorities, guide execution, and deliver strategic initiatives
- Lead cross‑functional teams across engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, quality, finance, and contracts
- Maintain consistent customer engagement with defense contractors and industrial clients to ensure alignment and satisfaction
- Select and apply appropriate project management methodologies, including Waterfall, Lean, Agile, or hybrid approaches
- Monitor budgets, schedules, and risks, providing clear and timely communication to all stakeholders
- Contribute to proposal development and business capture activities for new opportunities
- Ensure compliance with applicable regulatory and quality standards, including FAR/DFARS, ITAR/EAR, AS9100, and ISO 9001
