Program Manager IV

Job Summary

The Advanced Programs Group at General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is looking for a Program Manager with a strong engineering background who will be supporting research and development for next generation Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). This position typically reports to a senior program manager and is responsible for the planning, managing and technical performance of one or more established engineering program(s) contained at a single location.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Direct all phases of the program(s) from conceptualization through completion, including acquisition, planning, and managing technical performance to ensure quality, business, and financial objectives are attained.

• Develop and coordinate program plans or delivery methods which usually serve a single customer.

• Collaborate with technical staff and/or Division/Group executive management to develop and implement current, annual, and long-term technical, schedule, quality, business, and financial objectives for the program(s).

• May also contribute to the development of Group/Company objectives which have a long-range forecast projected to continue for multiple years.

• Responsible for decisions that could have an extended impact on outcomes where erroneous decisions could result in critical delays and modifications to programs.

• Applies established technologies that require advanced principles, theories, concepts, and techniques to provide solutions to a variety of technical problems.

• Responsible for program(s) which represent moderate future growth in distinct products or components.

• Collaborate with engineering to establish design concepts, criteria, and engineering efforts for product research, development, testing, and integration.

• Interact with management and customer representatives regarding programs, operational decisions, scheduling requirements and contractual clarification. Act as primary contact for program issues.

• Influence, and coordinate the preparation of proposals, business plans, proposal work statements and specifications, operating budgets, and financial terms/conditions of contract(s). Influence contract acquisitions, negotiations and modifications.

• Ensure technical leadership and excellence is maintained by directing and participating in the planning, attraction, selection, retention, and development of the required management, professional, and technical talent.

• Act as the primary customer contact for program activities and lead program review sessions with customers to discuss cost, schedule, and technical performance.

• Identify program issues and provide leadership in developing solutions such as re-allocation of resources or modifying contract specification.

• Lead the development of new business opportunities and expansion of existing business opportunities.

• Participate with Group management in pursuing business partnerships, alliances, and joint ventures that enhance the capabilities of the Group/Company and may result in new products, programs and business opportunities.

• Direct the development of and ensure the security of proprietary technology and maintain the strict confidentiality of sensitive information.

• Other duties as assigned or required.

Desirable characteristics for this role include any of the following:

• Previous experience developing low TRL technologies, from concept inception through design, build, and verification testing. Leading Internal Research & Design (IR&D) efforts or contracted programs

• Experience as a supervisor of direct reports, clear understanding of project or systems engineer

• Previous experience as a Chief Engineer and experience as an Integrated Product Team (IPT) Lead on a development effort

• Business degree in addition to a technical degree

• Previous experience as voting member of a Configuration Control Board (CCB) or a Material Review Board (MRB) or as a signatory for engineering drawing release and/or change authorization.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.