Program Manager (TS/SCI)

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking an experienced Program Manager to support the U.S. Space Force and Space Systems Command in the acquisition and delivery of next-generation space capabilities within the Space Combat Power portfolio. This position serves as a key advisor to the Government Program Office, overseeing complex acquisition efforts that integrate space, ground, and mission systems.

Responsibilities

• Support the Government Program Manager in developing and executing acquisition strategies aligned with mission priorities and warfighter needs.
• Manage program planning activities including schedules, resource allocation, budgeting, contracting actions, and execution oversight.
• Oversee delivery milestones, systems integration, test activities, risk management, and contractor performance.
• Coordinate across government and industry stakeholders to ensure successful integration of space, ground, and communications segments.
• Organize and facilitate Technical Interchange Meetings (TIMs), program reviews, and status meetings to monitor progress and resolve issues.
• Implement configuration management and change management practices to maintain technical, cost, and schedule baselines.
• Review contractor designs, milestone reviews, and technical deliverables, providing assessments of program health and mission readiness.
• Support independent technical and programmatic reviews to validate system performance and program execution.
• Monitor funding commitments, obligations, and expenditures to ensure efficient use of program resources.
• Identify, assess, and mitigate program risks while promoting rapid capability delivery in accordance with the Warfighting Acquisition System (WAS).
• Develop executive briefings, reports, and strategic communications supporting government decision-making.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree and 12+ years of relevant program management, acquisition, or aerospace experience; or Master’s degree with 10+ years of experience.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex defense, aerospace, or space system programs.
• Experience working across space, ground, and mission systems to support end-to-end integration and mission performance.
• Strong background in cost, schedule, risk, and performance management.
• Experience supporting U.S. Government acquisition programs and performance-based contracts.
• Proven ability to develop and manage program baselines, schedules, and program execution plans.
• Experience delivering executive-level briefings, reports, and customer communications.
• Strong leadership, collaboration, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to operate effectively in fast-paced, highly visible acquisition environments.

Clearance Requirement

• Must possess an in-scope T5 or SSBI background investigation adjudicated for SCI eligibility and enrolled in Continuous Evaluation (if applicable).
• Must be willing to obtain SCI and/or SAP access.
• Must be willing to consent to a polygraph examination.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting Space Force, Space Systems Command, National Security Space, or other DoD space programs.
• Experience with rapid acquisition, capability fielding, and Warfighting Acquisition System (WAS) principles.
• Experience managing highly integrated space, ground, and communications architectures.
• Experience supporting major weapon system acquisition programs.

Pay

Pay range: $160,000 - $190,000 (Based on years of relevant experience)

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401k, 20 days of paid time off, 11 federal holidays, and sick leave.

Location: El Segundo, CA