Sr. Director, Program Management

Stratolaunch accelerates the development of next-generation aerospace and defense technologies through reusable hypersonic flight testing. Our autonomous, air-launched Talon-A vehicles provide access to operationally realistic flight environments at speeds exceeding Mach 5, delivering critical data that helps customers validate system performance and advance technologies toward deployment. Our team brings together expertise in engineering, manufacturing, and flight operations to solve complex challenges and advance capabilities essential to national security.

The Senior Director, Program Management is a key leader responsible for the execution of all of Stratolaunch’s Mojave, California-based programs. Reporting directly to the General Manager, this role oversees a portfolio of multi-disciplinary programs spanning the design, manufacturing, and flight test of reusable and expendable hypersonic test vehicles. The Senior Director is accountable for delivering customer satisfaction through the oversight of program performance. A strong candidate must have a strong sense of urgency, and be able to build and maintain a high-performance team of program leaders.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Leadership & Vision

Set and communicate the strategic vision for the program management function in California, aligning with corporate objectives and long-term business goals

Lead cross-program and cross-functional conflict resolution, balancing the performance of all programs and contracts

Design a structured organization that is ready to deliver for customers successfully through disciplined execution

Represent Stratolaunch in executive forums, industry events, and high-level customer and government engagements

Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of program managers, program leaders, and cross-functional staff

Own and perform to the Program Management Office budget for the Operations business unit

Program Portfolio Oversight

Guide and remove barriers for the execution of a portfolio of large-scale, concurrent programs, ensuring delivery on cost, schedule, technical performance, and customer satisfaction

Create and drive a Program Management rhythm for the business unit, driving disciplined execution across all programs

Hold Program Managers accountable through proactive risk management and risk mitigation planning

Establish and enforce best-in-class program management methodologies, processes, and tools across the business unit

Make cross-program business unit level decisions regarding program direction, resource allocation, and risk management

Set the standards and best practices of the Program Management department, including scheduling and risk management. Support program financial discipline by collaborating with the Finance team

Manage and oversee key supplier relationships by forming relationships and driving accountability into those organizations

Strategic Planning & Business Development

Collaborate with the GM and executive leadership to define and execute long-term program strategies, business plans, and growth initiatives

Support the identification, capture, and development of new business opportunities, partnerships, and strategic alliances

Drive technology insertion, process improvement, and program expansion within the business unit to maintain Stratolaunch’s competitive edge

Customer & Stakeholder Engagement

Form and maintain critical customer relationships for the success of the business unit

Support key customers, government agencies, and strategic partners, ensuring alignment with business unit objectives

Support the negotiation of complex contracts and agreements, managing high-level relationships and ensuring delivery of customer value

Governance, Risk, & Compliance

Oversee risk management, compliance, and governance activities for all programs, including classified and secure operations

Ensure adherence to all regulatory, contractual, and quality standards at the business unit level

Organizational Development & Culture

Champion a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement throughout the Program Management team

Lead talent acquisition, succession planning, and professional development initiatives to build and sustain high-performing teams

Promote organizational health, engagement, and collaboration through effective communication and recognition programs

Own recruiting and compensation for the Operations Program Management Office

Executive Reporting & Communication

Provide regular, comprehensive program and portfolio status updates to the General Manager, C-suite, and Board of Directors

Communicate program vision, objectives, and progress to internal and external stakeholders at all levels

Travel

Domestic and occasional international travel required to support business, program objectives, and customer relationships

Required Qualifications

Minimum 20 years of progressive experience in technical and/or program management, with at least 10 years in senior leadership roles within aerospace, defense, or high-technology sectors

Demonstrated success leading large, complex, multi-disciplinary programs or portfolios with annual budgets >$100M

Extensive experience in aerospace program management, subcontracts, procurement, personnel management, aircraft systems, operations, launch vehicle integration, and ground systems

Proven executive leadership in technical organizations, including oversight of subcontractors and prototype/low-rate production

Advanced expertise in risk management, classified program execution, and regulatory compliance

Exceptional executive communication, negotiation, and facilitation skills

Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and organizational change management abilities

Ability to obtain and maintain a TS (Top Secret) security clearance

Preferred Qualifications

Hypersonic vehicle development experience

Experience working directly with government agencies, regulatory bodies, and major defense contractors

Air-launch, launch vehicle, and/or aircraft integration program experience

Large transport category or military aircraft operations experience

PMP, PgMP, or equivalent advanced project/program management certification

Experience with classified program execution and secure environments

Required Computer Skills

Advanced proficiency in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)

MS Project and other advanced project management tools

Education & Experience

Sr. Director, Program Management ($252,000-$292,000): Bachelor’s degree (B.A. or B.S.) or higher in Engineering, Business Management/Administration, or related discipline from an accredited institution and 20+ years relevant program management experience or equivalent combination of education and experience

Special remarks regarding work environment, if applicable

This position is located in Mojave, CA

Relocation eligible to local area

Travel estimated to be approximately 10% or less

9/80 schedule

#LI-onsite#LI-AM1

Base salary and leveling are established on a case-by-case basis. We consider several factors to ensure a competitive offer, including your location, educational background, and a comprehensive assessment of the skills and experience demonstrated during your interviews.Benefits and our location(s):

Healthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs)

Paid Maternity and Parental Leave

50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan, up to $11,500

Tuition reimbursement

This position may involve the operation of company vehicles as part of assigned duties.

Mojave Air & Spaceport is located just outside of Lancaster/Palmdale and is only 95 miles north of Los Angeles. The area offers both affordability and central access to a variety of California's best attractions and landmarks.

Not much for the outdoors and prefer the city life? You’re within a half day’s drive or less of Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, and San Francisco where you can find a variety of live entertainment, museums, tours, and historical sight-seeing. Theme parks are in abundance, with Six Flags Magic Mountain, Disneyland, and Knotts Berry Farm ready to meet the needs of rollercoaster thrill seekers.

Food and drink fanatics are in a haven of delectable choices. Wine aficionados will also find easy access to some of the state’s best vino in Paso Robles, Santa Ynez, and even more locally in Tehachapi and Agua Dulce. Beer fanatics will find some of the best West Coast IPAs at Bravery and Lucky Luke’s in Lancaster. Any food option you crave is covered, and we always recommend the authentic and fresh Mexican food that you won’t find anywhere else in the United States.

Stratolaunch is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at our company. We encourage people from all walks of life to apply, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Our management team does not tolerate discrimination or harassment at any point during our employees’ and applicants’ time with us, especially with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment during employment. For purposes of transparency, U.S. Citizenship may be required for some positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law :

https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf