Space Mission Program Manager

About the role

Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Program Manager to lead the development and sustainment of complex space systems within our Strategic & Military Space Division. This role bridges technical leadership, stakeholder communication, and project execution, ensuring delivery of high-reliability software critical to National security and space missions. The selected candidate will work as part of a larger team with customers, engineers, managers, technicians, and support personnel. The Strategic & Military Space Division delivers advanced satellite and sensor systems that support the Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community. Our division is a key component of national security, providing technological solutions and expert mission support.

Responsibilities

• Leads cross-functional teams delivering space-based system capabilities, including sensors and small satellite technologies along with mission planning, automation, and data processing for on-orbit systems
• Manages project lifecycle from concept through operations, ensuring scope, schedule, budget, and quality targets are met
• Interfaces with internal and external stakeholders including engineers, system architects, satellite operators, and Government sponsors
• Oversees risk management, change control, and related management processes
• Coordinates integration and testing activities
• Ensures compliance with applicable Government and quality standards
• Tracks and reports program status, technical progress, and resource allocation to senior leadership and customers

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in technical engineering, science, or business degree
• 5+ years of experience in project management, including at least 2 years in satellite or space system domains
• Proven success managing complex projects through full development lifecycle
• Strong understanding of space applications
• Proficiency with program management tools (e.g., Jira, Confluence, MS Project)
• Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to support new proposal efforts with technical writing, proposal management support, subcontractor evaluation, and other duties as requested
• Must be a U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance
• Must be able to travel

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or advanced degree in aerospace, systems, electrical, or optical engineering
• PMP or PMI certification
• 7-10 years of project management experience in aerospace
• Familiarity with multiple Remote Sensing phenomenology and data sets such as RF, SAR, EO, IR
• Background in DevSecOps, continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD), or digital engineering
• Active security clearance

Pay

Salary Range $107,000 - $200,000. Salary commensurate on education and relevant experience. This range serves as a general guideline and may vary based on factors such as role, level, location, market conditions, and individual qualifications, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. The range displayed in the job advertisement reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries across all US locations. Specific salary details for a candidate’s preferred location can be provided by the recruiter or HR manager during the hiring process.