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Karman Space & Defense
Senior Technical Program Manager
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What they do
An Engineering Program Manager provides support and/or lead teams through the Engineering development process and implementation of company's products. Projects are typically shorter-term, less complex and more contained with a defined time frame. Programs are typically longer-term, multi-functional, multi-project with complex requirements and effort. Manage activities, resource capability, schedules, budgets, and ensure cross company communications to facilitate product completion on schedule within budget. Work with engineering management to identify and improve process and program efficiencies.
$176,306 / year median in Washington
+4% projected growth
Job Description
Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, nextgeneration 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 supports our Defense Systems business, bringing together Hypersonics, Strategic Missile Defense, Tactical Missiles, and Integrated Defense Systems. Modern defense missions demand more than piecemeal parts or patchwork products; they require hardware that seamlessly integrates disparate technologies into a unified system. Backed by decades of flight-proven performance, our teams deliver tailored mission-ready solutions across air, land, and sea, including: launch and deployment systems, propulsion, payload protection, integration and deployment.
In this role, you will lead the planning, execution, and delivery of complex aerospace and defense programs that integrate engineering, manufacturing, quality, and customer requirements. You will guide cross-functional engineering teams, manage program performance, coordinate customer and stakeholder communication, and ensure technical, schedule, and contractual commitments are met. Your work directly supports mission-critical capabilities and advances key company programs.
ScheduleThis 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.
ResponsibilitiesLeads cross-functional engineering teams in the design, development, analysis, and testing of mechanical and pyrotechnic components and systems.
Interfaces with customers and internal leadership to maintain clear communication and alignment.
Supports business development through proposal writing and participation in new business meetings.
Ensures complete and accurate documentation of engineering activities, including drawings, reports, and presentations.
Tracks program performance using key metrics and proactively identifies risks and mitigation actions.
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.
Coordinates proposal efforts, capture activities, and the transition from business development to program execution.
Partners with Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Quality Assurance, Contracts, and Finance to ensure successful program delivery.
Performs other related duties as needed.
Required QualificationsBachelors degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related technical field.
At least 7 years of engineering experience, including a minimum of 4 years in aerospace engineering or systems engineering.
Demonstrated ability to develop, plan, and execute projects.
Demonstrated experience leading cross-functional engineering teams.
Experience managing cost, schedule, scope, and technical risks.
Preferred QualificationsMasters degree in a related technical field or a Master of Business Administration (MBA).At least 4 years of experience managing complex technical programs in defense, aerospace, or government technology sectors.
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.
BenefitsMedical, dental, and vision insurance401(k) with company matchPaid time offHealth Savings Account (HSA) with company contributionFlexible Spending Accounts (FSA)Companypaid life and AD&D insuranceShort and longterm disability coverageTuition reimbursementKarman 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 supports our Defense Systems business, bringing together Hypersonics, Strategic Missile Defense, Tactical Missiles, and Integrated Defense Systems. Modern defense missions demand more than piecemeal parts or patchwork products; they require hardware that seamlessly integrates disparate technologies into a unified system. Backed by decades of flight-proven performance, our teams deliver tailored mission-ready solutions across air, land, and sea, including: launch and deployment systems, propulsion, payload protection, integration and deployment.
In this role, you will lead the planning, execution, and delivery of complex aerospace and defense programs that integrate engineering, manufacturing, quality, and customer requirements. You will guide cross-functional engineering teams, manage program performance, coordinate customer and stakeholder communication, and ensure technical, schedule, and contractual commitments are met. Your work directly supports mission-critical capabilities and advances key company programs.
ScheduleThis 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.
ResponsibilitiesLeads cross-functional engineering teams in the design, development, analysis, and testing of mechanical and pyrotechnic components and systems.
Interfaces with customers and internal leadership to maintain clear communication and alignment.
Supports business development through proposal writing and participation in new business meetings.
Ensures complete and accurate documentation of engineering activities, including drawings, reports, and presentations.
Tracks program performance using key metrics and proactively identifies risks and mitigation actions.
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.
Coordinates proposal efforts, capture activities, and the transition from business development to program execution.
Partners with Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Quality Assurance, Contracts, and Finance to ensure successful program delivery.
Performs other related duties as needed.
Required QualificationsBachelors degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related technical field.
At least 7 years of engineering experience, including a minimum of 4 years in aerospace engineering or systems engineering.
Demonstrated ability to develop, plan, and execute projects.
Demonstrated experience leading cross-functional engineering teams.
Experience managing cost, schedule, scope, and technical risks.
Preferred QualificationsMasters degree in a related technical field or a Master of Business Administration (MBA).At least 4 years of experience managing complex technical programs in defense, aerospace, or government technology sectors.
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.
BenefitsMedical, dental, and vision insurance401(k) with company matchPaid time offHealth Savings Account (HSA) with company contributionFlexible Spending Accounts (FSA)Companypaid life and AD&D insuranceShort and longterm disability coverageTuition reimbursementKarman 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.