General Atomics Aeronautical Systems · 1 day ago
Program Manager HF & Free Space Optical Communication
Poway, CA
Full-time
Onsite
Mid, Senior Level
$112K/yr - $205K/yr
7+ years expGeneral Atomics Aeronautical Systems is seeking an experienced Program Manager III to lead high-visibility programs in HF communication systems and Free Space Optical Communication technologies. The role involves managing programs from inception to delivery, ensuring technical excellence and alignment with customer objectives, while also focusing on business development to expand the company's portfolio.
EnergyEnergy EfficiencyManufacturingWireless
No H1B
Security Clearance RequiredU.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Lead and oversee all aspects of HF or FSOC communication programs, including planning, execution, monitoring, and delivery
Manage program schedules, budgets, and resources to ensure successful outcomes and alignment with organizational and customer goals
Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering, manufacturing, and quality assurance, to ensure program objectives are met
Identify and mitigate risks to program execution, including technical, schedule, and financial risks
Prepare and deliver program updates, reports, and presentations to internal leadership and external stakeholders
Drive program success in alignment with corporate goals and customer expectations, ensuring adherence to scope, schedule, and budget constraints
Develop a deep understanding of customer missions and operational requirements, ensuring program deliverables meet or exceed expectations
Act as the primary liaison between GA-ASI and the customer, ensuring clear communication and alignment throughout the program lifecycle
Translate customer needs into actionable requirements for engineering teams, ensuring technical solutions are mission-driven
Monitor customer feedback and satisfaction, proactively addressing concerns and adapting program strategies as needed
Provide technical leadership and guidance for programs involving HF or FSOC communication systems
Work closely with engineering teams to ensure technical requirements are met and systems are optimized for performance
Support system-level testing, validation, and troubleshooting of HF or FSOC communication systems
Develop and execute strategies to grow GA-ASI’s portfolio in HF and/or FSOC communication technologies
Identify new business opportunities, including government and commercial contracts, and lead proposal development efforts
Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, partners, and key stakeholders in the defense, aerospace, and commercial sectors
Conduct market analysis to understand industry trends, competitive landscape, and customer needs
Represent GA-ASI at industry events, conferences, and customer meetings to showcase capabilities and drive business growth
Foster a collaborative and results-driven environment within the program team
Mentor and develop team members, promoting technical and professional growth
Drive continuous improvement in program management processes and practices
Lead complex, multi-disciplinary programs, demonstrating mastery in program execution and customer engagement
Qualification
Required
Typically requires a Bachelors, Masters or PhD in engineering, science or a related technical field as well as eleven or more years of progressively complex program administration experience with at least five of those years managing programs. May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, or a related field (Master's preferred)
7+ years of experience in program management, with a focus on technical programs in communications or related technologies
Expertise in either HF communication systems or Free Space Optical Communication (FSOC) technologies (knowledge of both is preferred)
Demonstrated success in managing complex, multi-disciplinary programs with budgets exceeding $2M
Proven experience in business development, including customer engagement, proposal development, and contract negotiation
Exceptional organizational, communication, and leadership skills
Proficiency in program management tools such as MS Project, Jira, or similar platforms
Willingness to travel up to 25% of the time, including domestic and international travel as required
Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance is required
Preferred
Experience in defense or aerospace industries, with familiarity in military communication standards and requirements
PMP certification or equivalent program management credentials
TS/SCI clearance preferred
Company
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems
At General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.
5001-10000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
$6.76MKey Investors
US Department of Energy
2023-08-14Grant
2023-05-09Grant
2022-09-19Grant
Leadership Team
Daniel Johnson
UK PROTECTOR Test Manager
Emory Lo
Sr Human Resource Business Partner
Recent News
2026-01-19
2026-01-15
Gulf Times
2025-12-22
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