Technical Program Manager (Active Secret Clearance)

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 Hypersonics and Strategic Missile Defense business, which designs, develops, and delivers highly dependable missile systems for hypersonic and strategic missile defense missions. We provide integrated, mission-ready hardware that brings together multiple technologies into unified systems engineered to perform in demanding operational environments. Our tip-to-tail capabilities include payload protection and deployment systems, propulsion systems, aerodynamic interstage systems, separation systems, missile subsystems, shroud systems, launch systems, and payload integration solutions.

In this role, you will lead complex aerospace and defense programs by integrating engineering, manufacturing, quality, cybersecurity, and customer stakeholders to deliver mission-critical mechanical and pyrotechnic systems. You will guide technical decision-making, drive program execution, manage customer relationships, and ensure programs meet performance, cost, and schedule commitments while maintaining compliance with contractual requirements.

Responsibilities

• Leads engineering teams in the design, development, analysis, and testing of mechanical and pyrotechnic components and systems.

• Serves as the primary interface with customers and internal leadership to communicate program status and technical progress.
• Coordinates documentation of engineering activities, including drawings, reports, and technical presentations.
• Tracks program performance using key metrics and proactively identifies risks, issues, and mitigation plans.
• Supports technical reviews and program milestone reviews.
• Facilitates program planning, technical decision-making, and change management across engineering teams.
• Manages scope, cost, schedule, and technical performance while balancing competing priorities.
• Supports business development through proposal writing, capture activities, and transition from pursuit to execution.
• Partners with Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Quality Assurance, Contracts, and Finance to ensure successful program delivery.
• Leads cross-functional collaboration to ensure alignment between engineering outputs and program objectives.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field.

• 5 or more years of engineering experience, including a minimum of 2 years in aerospace or systems engineering.
• Demonstrated ability to develop, plan, and execute projects.
• Experience leading cross-functional engineering teams.
• Experience managing cost, schedule, scope, and technical risks.
• A current U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Secret security clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain one.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master of Science or Master of Business Administration (MBA).

• 2 or more years of experience managing complex technical programs in the defense, aerospace, or government technology sectors.

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.

This role follows a 9/80 schedule, with 9-hour shifts Monday through Thursday, an 8-hour shift every other Friday, and the alternating Friday off.