Program Manager - Defense
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 12, 2026. First seen by Alion on Oct 7, 2026. Standex International scores B on the Alion truth index.
The Program Manager will manage and direct the daily execution of contract requirements to ensure that cost, schedules and performance goals are met, and all meetings associated with new product introductions (kick off to project close) are completed. The Program Manager will provide interface, communication, and coordination with internal and external customers on matters pertaining to existing contracts and bid/proposal activities.
What You'll Do
Manage and direct the daily execution of contract requirements to ensure that cost, schedules and performance goals are met
Lead all meetings and the new product development team for assigned customer products
Provide interface, communication and coordination with internal and external customers on matters pertaining to existing contracts and bid/proposal activities
Participate as a team member or leader on bid and proposal activities. Ensure that the requirements of the request for proposal are met in the preparation and documentation of bids/proposals
Support new business opportunities in coordination with Business Development
Represent management at program reviews, meetings/calls, seminars, etc.
Prepare for and participate in contract/subcontract negotiations. While representing the Company’s interests, ensuring to adhere to all government regulatory guidance
Develop and implement plans/schedules to execute new contracts/subcontracts. Allocate and contract budgets for labor, material, travel and purchased services
Formally identifies, assesses, monitors and mitigates risk throughout the program life cycle. Obtains management approval prior to making decisions that will cause deterioration of established programs, cost and schedule objectives
Develop and implement corrective action plans when deviations from budget and/or schedules are evident. Seek senior management assistance in resolving schedule and budget problems as they arise
Perform variance analysis of schedule and cost on a formal and informal basis and present them to senior management
Serve as the primary interface with the customer on all matters involving contract execution. Coordinate with other departments on resolution of contractual problems with the customer.
Coordinate with Business Development on issues pertaining to contract requirements, changes, and interpretations
Assure that conduct of contract requirements is executed in accordance with appropriate regulations and Company policies and procedures
Provide leadership to program team. Assures communications and cooperation among team members and resolves areas of conflict
Assure timely closeout of completed programs to ensure that all obligations are satisfied, and program documentation is properly recorded
Understand and develop leading versus lagging indicators
Develop and execute corrective action program strategies
Develop and understand principles of program planning (developing BOM’s, basis of estimate, etc.)
Understand lean and process improvement principles to integrate OpEx throughout new product introduction cycle
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment while following all safety and quality procedures
Attending meetings and trainings as assigned
Complete projects as assigned
What You'll Bring
Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or manufacturing engineering or related field required
Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience of program management for Tier 1 sheet manufacturer to the Defense or Energy industries
Experience total program cycle; development to sustainment
Experience with metrics for assessing and reporting program progress, productivity and variance analysis
Knowledge and experience working within AS9100 Quality Management System
Proficiency in MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint) and willingness to learn other software
Reliable transportation
Strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills
High level of confidentiality and professionalism when interacting with clients & vendors
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
Ability to build and maintain strong working relationships
Ability to effectively manage time, multi-task, and pay close attention to details
Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and as part of a team
Regularly required to move, sit, and bend for various hours throughout the day
Occasionally may need to travel to vendors and suppliers