Program Manager

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next-generation system solutions that align with the U.S. Department of War and its allies’ core mission priorities, and meet the accelerating demand for access to space. Building on nearly 50 years of success, we deliver Payload & Protection Systems, Aero/Hydrodynamic Interstage Systems, and Propulsion & Launch Systems to more than 80 prime contractors supporting over 130 space and defense programs.

This role is part of our Maritime Defense Systems business, which delivers integrated solutions with decades of proven performance across submarine, surface, and autonomous naval platforms supporting high-priority national defense programs. Our bow-to-stern capabilities include acoustic and sonar protection systems, propulsion systems, advanced composite structures, missile subsystems, canisters and launchers, and autonomous underwater vehicle subsystems. From concept through production, we combine engineering, materials expertise, specialized manufacturing, and large-scale testing to deliver mission-ready systems that reduce technical risk and support long-term operational performance.

In this role, you will manage Integrated Product Teams (IPTs) and lead program execution from kickoff through completion. You will oversee cost, schedule, risk, and deliverables; coordinate across engineering, production, supply chain, and quality; and maintain accountability for meeting customer commitments. Your work ensures program alignment, timely milestone achievement, and disciplined management across multiple defense manufacturing efforts.

Responsibilities

• Leads Integrated Product Teams through all phases of assigned programs to ensure cost, schedule, and performance objectives are met.
• Manages program financials including baseline development, variance analysis, monthly estimates, and Estimate to Complete updates.
• Oversees subcontractor activities and ensures alignment with customer requirements and contract expectations.
• Develops comprehensive program plans that define resources, budgets, schedules, and performance goals.
• Provides clear and concise program status updates to executive leadership and key stakeholders.
• Supports program reviews with Department of Defense customers and monitors milestone progress and risk drivers.
• Ensures compliance with contract requirements, risk management practices, resource planning, and reporting standards.
• Coordinates with Engineering, Operations, Production Planning, and Supply Chain to accomplish program objectives.
• Monitors contract compliance and supports cost reviews and related program activities.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Minimum 5 years of project or program management experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Degree in a technical field.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.
• Experience with Department of Defense programs.
• Experience with Microsoft Project and strong proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Knowledge of cost and financial management, including Earned Value Management (EVM) methodologies.
• Understanding of Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), and International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) requirements.
• Strong leadership, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, bend, kneel, walk, stoop, crouch, and sit.
• Ability to use hands and fingers to handle or feel and reach with hands and arms.
• Ability to perform repetitive movements.
• Ability to bend and twist.
• Ability to climb stairs and ladders.
• Ability to lift, push, pull, or occasionally carry heavy objects.
• Vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

  The essential functions of this position must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.

This position requires U.S. person status under U.S. export control laws, including U.S. citizens and nationals, lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Company-paid life and AD&D insurance
• Short- and long-term disability coverage
• Tuition reimbursement

Karman Space and Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.