Program Director jobs in United States
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AV · 5 hours ago

Program Director

AeroVironment (AV) is a global leader in unmanned aircraft systems and tactical missile systems. They are seeking an experienced Program Director to lead a cross-functional team in the development and delivery of complex integrated air and missile defense architecture, ensuring effective program execution and alignment with strategic objectives.

AerospaceAir TransportationDronesElectric VehicleElectronicsEnergyGovernmentManufacturing
badNo H1BnoteSecurity Clearance RequirednoteU.S. Citizen Onlynote

Responsibilities

Lead and manage large-scale integrated air and missile defense programs including multi layered CUAS solutions from initiation through sustainment, ensuring cost, schedule, and technical performance, P&L accountability, and alignment with strategic objectives
Develop, present, and maintain key program management documentation, including: Program Kickoff Plans establishing personnel, processes, tools, and immediate milestones to accelerate program start-up. Work Breakdown Structures (WBS) compliant with MIL-STD-881F, linking all elements to weapon system specifications to enable clear traceability and control. Program Management Plans (PMPs) defining quality standards, deliverable schedules, and program execution approaches tailored to each phase of performance
Participate in proposal development to support additional work scope and manage pre-award performance to budget
Facilitate negotiations involving major project parameters such as deliverable definition and performance objectives (cost, schedule, quality)
Manage integrated master schedules and earned value metrics, leading risk identification and mitigation efforts
Identify and manage project risks, issues, and opportunities
Oversee resources including personnel, facilities, budgets, and schedules to meet performance requirements and commitments
Report program status and performance metrics to program leadership and customers
Coordinate multi-company and government teams to ensure seamless execution of technical, financial, contractual, and logistical program aspects
Direct proposal efforts, contract negotiations, and compliance monitoring consistent with DoD and defense industry best practices
Provide regular briefings and updates to senior government leadership, industry executives, and international stakeholders

Qualification

Program ManagementP&L ResponsibilityDefense AcquisitionIntegrated Air DefenseRisk ManagementStakeholder EngagementDoD Acquisition ProcessesLeadership ExperienceAnalytical SkillsMicrosoft OfficeEarned Value ManagementTeam CoordinationCommunication SkillsOrganizational Skills

Required

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering/Computer Science or related field is required or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
Minimum of 7 – 10 years of directly related program management experience
Minimum of 5 – 7 years' People management of Project and Program Managers
Prior military service with operational and acquisition experience is mandatory, providing essential knowledge critical to this role
Experience working on integrated air and missile defense and/or CUAS systems and 10+ years of leadership experience managing complex defense programs with P&L responsibility
Deep experience in C2 systems and mission solutions integration
Experience in integrated air and missile defense systems or closely related defense systems
Familiarity with DoD acquisition processes, MIL-STD-881F WBS standards, and formal program management documentation
Demonstrated ability to lead large, cross-functional teams and interface effectively with government and industry stakeholders
Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office and program management tools
Ability to work in an office environment (Constant)
Required to sit and stand for long periods; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard (Frequent)
Secret clearance level
U.S. Citizenship required

Preferred

Advanced degree in Organizational Leadership, Business, Engineering, or related discipline
Experience with Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS), integrated master scheduling, and defense financial reporting tools
DAWIA certifications or equivalent program management credentials
Knowledge of emerging missile technologies such as kinetic and non-kinetic systems, C2 enhancements, and sensor technologies

Benefits

Medical
Dental vision
401K with company matching
A 9/80 work schedule
A paid holiday shutdown

Company

At AV, we build shoulder-to-shoulder with our customers, delivering systems shaped by real-world missions, not theoretical requirements.

Funding

Current Stage
Public Company
Total Funding
$1.68B
2025-07-01Post Ipo Equity· $875M
2025-07-01Post Ipo Debt· $650M
2023-09-19Post Ipo Equity· $109.01M

Leadership Team

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Wahid Nawabi
Chairman, President & CEO
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Johnathan Jones
Senior Vice President
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Company data provided by crunchbase